Tag Archives: wine

Michigan Winery receives top honors at international wine competition

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Brengman Brothers is located at 9270 S. Center Hwy., Traverse City. (Brengman Brothers)

By WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org

Something us Michiganers know: you do not have to head to Napa Valley for some of the nation’s best wines, just head north to Traverse City.

Robert Brengman announced that his Rosé winning Best of Show in the most prestigious international competition provides once again Michigan is a world class wine producer.

“Napa Valley, get used to seeing Traverse Wine Coast in the same announcement on capturing crowns at wine competitions” Brengman said. He is the winemaker at Brengman Brothers Winery in Leelanau County, Mich.

The June 26 Rose´ judging at the prestigious American Fine Wine Competition in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, is by invitation only.

The Brengman Brothers Pinot Noir Dry Rosé from Crain Hill Vineyards Block 7 received the Best of Show in the Dry Rosé Category at The Rosé Competition 2020.

“Just being invited is an honor,” Brengman said. “Winning Best is the pinnacle.” He said this wine is a true Pinot Noir Dry Rosé from Crain Hill Vineyards Block 7.

The Rosé Competition 2020 received a total of 150 entries and the sixteen esteemed wine judges awarded 14 Double Gold Medals, 28 Gold Medals and 50 Silver Medals.

Under the auspices of the American Fine Wine Competition, the judges selected Brengman Brothers, Block 7 ($25), from Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan, as Best of Show in the Dry Rosé Category.  This Pinot Noir from Crain Hill Vineyard hit all the right notes and captivated the assembled judges.  Some of the comments made by the judges:  Said Sarah Phillips, wine writer and educator at the Florida Wine Academy: “This Rosé has a fruity, expressive nose, good concentration, watermelon, peach… I want to drink it all day!”  “It’s Singing!” Said Judge Zack Foley, Wine Director at the Boatyard, Ft. Lauderdale.

Many wineries from the Traverse Wine Coast region are invited and have progressively taken the top medals and higher scores in the past few years against a tough competition from the best national and international wineries.

“Soon it will not be necessary to mention Michigan after Leelanau Peninsula, just as California is no longer is required to be tagged onto Napa Valley,” Brengman said.

“Our terroir — the glacial soil, microclimate, weather pulse, peninsular mists and 45th Parallel location — all combine to produce some of the finest wines in the world.”

Brengman added that “recognition in international competition against top contenders is gratifying affirmation.”

This year judges delayed the Rose´ contest, which traditionally was in March after the general competition in January.

Chateau Chantal hosts summer food and wine program

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By Marie-Chantal Dalese
Chateau Chantal

Chateau Chantal continues to provide exceptional experiences connecting local food and wine by offering an expanded schedule of Wine Dinners from their stunning facility on Old Mission Peninsula.  New safety precautions have been established to keep staff and guests safe.

Further details for all items can be found online.

Summer Hours: Starting June 18, Chateau Chantal will be open 11am-8pm Thursday-Saturday and 11am-5pm Sunday-Wednesday.  Reservations can be made online for wine by the glass and flights of 3 wines.

Jazz at Sunset:  The Jeff Haas Trio kicks off their 27th summer season of Jazz at Sunset Thursday, July 2 7:00-9:30.  This free live concert is offered every Thursday through August 29.  Reservations required for wine by the glass/tables.  Capacity limited.

Patio Unplugged:  Starting June 18 and running Thursdays through September 24, various musical talents will perform from the expansive East Patio at Chateau Chantal from 5pm-7pm.  No charge.  Reservations can be made online for wine by the glass and flights of 3 wines.

Wine Dinners: This summer, Chateau Chantal’s Wine Dinners, are offered:

June 17 – June 27: Wed & Sat
July 1 – Aug 31: Tues, Wed, Sat
Sept – October:  Wed, Thurs, Fri

A vineyard tour kicks off the evening at 6 p.m., with outdoor dinner seating at 6:30.  The price is $89 per person including tax, tip and wines.  Reservations are required at least a day in advance and can be made by calling 1-800-969-4009 or booking online at www.chateauchantal.com.  Enjoy a beautifully paired multi-course meal prepared in-house by Chef Chris Mushall.  Chris brings years of culinary experience and great finesse to the multiple courses, each of which is perfectly paired with a Chateau Chantal wine.

Summer Festivals in West Michigan

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By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

With summer comes a slew of festivals in West Michigan, each entirely unique and memorable. We’re talking about festivals centered around food, beer, art, culture, and more throughout the next few months. With events taking place nearly every week throughout the summer, there’s always something right around the corner for you to experience with these West Michigan festivals.

June Festivals in West Michigan

The Festival of the Arts is a three-day community celebration in downtown Grand Rapids offering art, food, entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. This year’s event is June 1st to 3rd, and will continue the tradition of bringing together the Grand Rapids art community for a summer kick-off. Ongoing for over 40 years, the Festival of the Arts is one of the longest-running festivals in the state.

 

The Mecosta area is home to festivals throughout the summer. The Lilac Festival is a chance for families to come out and do something fun, as a hometown, family-friendly event from June 1st to 3rd. Return for a summer of festivals, including the Morley Celebration on the Pond, Remus Heritage Days, and Mecosta County Agricultural Fair.

 

The Charlevoix Craft Beer Festival is a celebration of Michigan craft beer, local food, and entertainment on Saturday, June 2nd. The aim of the festival is to provide patrons the opportunity to enjoy a varied selection of high-quality Michigan craft beer while mingling with friends at the beautiful waterside venue. Attendees are encouraged to venture out and explore downtown Charlevoix’s culinary and retail offerings prior to and after the event.

 

The band Moxie Strings is set to appear at Cogdal Vineyards in South Haven on Sunday, June 3rd for the Cogdal Vineyards Wine Lovers’ Festival. Attendees can expect a fun experience of high-energy, original, and traditional tunes performed on five-string fiddle and electric cello while enjoying a glass of delicious wine.

 

Plan a summer fun Girls’ Night Out with Divas Uncorked, the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula Divas Uncorked event on Friday, June 8th. This evening is devoted entirely to women, wine, food, and fun. Enjoy wine and food pairings, giveaways, shopping, and pampering. Bring your entourage, relax, and be fabulous!

 

Whether you’re looking for a fun and easy family getaway or a big night out on the town with friends, Mt. Pleasant offers a little bit of everything. They have a wide variety of events this summer, kicking off with the Back to the Bricks car show on Friday, June 8th. The following day, craft beer enthusiasts gather for the Mt. Pleasant Craft Beer Festival, showcasing some of Michigan’s greatest brews. There won’t be a dull moment during your trip to Mt. Pleasant.

 

Feast of the Strawberry Moon is June 9th and 10th in Grand Haven. The event includes reenactments, a kids day, live entertainment, and more as they explore the middleground world that evolved between Europeans and the Native Americans in the Great Lakes Region during the pre-1800 fur trade era.

 

Grand Haven hosts some of West Michigan’s fan-favorite festivals every summer. The Spring Lake Heritage Festival is June 11th to 16th, and has family fun like no other. The following week is the Grand Haven Art Festival on June 23th and 24th. The event seeks to provide the community and visitors with a unique opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind art, directly from the artists.

 

Music, boating, arts, and culture are all happening in River Country. Some of the area’s most popular annual events include the Three Rivers Water Fest from June 14th to 16th and Sturgis Fest from June 23rd to 30th. More events include Covered Bridge Days and the Magic Get-Together later in the summer. They have a full event calendar on their website, so check that out if you need to fill your time in southwest Michigan!

 

The Michigan Maritime Museum presents the 37th Antique & Classic Boat Show on Saturday, June 16th, during Harborfest weekend in South Haven. This event celebrates all kinds of antique and classic small craft from power boats to paddle boats. Woodworkers and collectors alike will show their boats, demonstrations on boat building techniques will be featured, and toy boat building will be available for kids. The aim is to help perpetuate the building, restoration, and use of classic boats and small craft to give participants and the public an entertaining and informative learning experience.

 

Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids is pleased to present to you Founders Fest 2018: A Celebration of Beer and Music on Saturday, June 16th. In its 11th year, Founders Fest continues to marry the finest beer with the tastiest artists from around the country and the world.

 

Located at the scenic Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer, the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival brings together the members of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail for a spectacular day in the sand on Saturday, June 16th. The festival will feature fantastic regional live music, food trucks, and local restaurants to pair with the world-class wines produced right in southwest Michigan.

 

Whitehall is home to the 40th Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts. The festival is expected to draw thousands of people this Father’s Day weekend on June 16th and 17th. Creative artists will participate in this very popular juried art show, and attendees can purchase a variety of hand-made art and crafts such as jewelry, wood furniture, birdhouses, ceramics, and more. A great lineup of musicians will entertain the crowds throughout the weekend.

 

The 9th Annual Traverse City Wine & Cider Festival is Saturday, June 24th. Come celebrate local wine, food, and culture. The festival brings together a true taste of the region with great wines, art, food trucks, and live musical entertainment all in one location!

 

Visit Lansing for the 19th Annual Common Ground Music Festival from June 28th to July 1st! See some of the best rock, pop, country, and hip-hop stars in the world take the stage in downtown Lansing along the Grand River in a setting unlike any other.

 

June in Battle Creek means it’s time for the Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival from June 28th to July 4th. Balloon launches or fly-ins take place every night (weather dependent) and air shows take place at noon.

 

The Soo Locks Engineers Weekend begins on Friday, June 29th in Sault Ste. Marie. This fun weekend offers exclusive access to some of the area’s historic and interesting attractions such as the Locks and the Cloverland Electric Hydroelectric Power Plant.

 

The 60th annual South Haven Art Fair hosted by the South Haven Center for the Arts is a two-day juried festival held one block from the Lake Michigan shore in picturesque Stanley Johnson Park on June 30th and July 1st. This year’s unique blend of talent includes works in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastel, drawing, sculpture, photography, glass, wood, clay, and wearable art. Admission is free for this two-day event.

 

The National Cherry Festival brings people from all over the world to Traverse City for a week-long celebration surrounding the cherry. Not only that, it attracts people from all over Michigan, the five-county area, and even just across the street to participate in activities. Come celebrate the Cherry Capital of the World from June 30th to July 7th for another year of food, drink, entertainment, and tradition!

 

The Midwest’s largest wine, beer & food festival is baaaaack

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Now in its 9th year, the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival has established itself as Michigan’s premier tasting event, measured by 1,600 wines, beers, ciders and spirits. From the connoisseur who lives and breathes for the finer things in life to the novice looking for an introduction to the world of food and spirits, this Festival will deliver a grand experience that is sure to please every palette. This is the weekend you won’t want to miss.

WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 17 (5-10pm) | Friday, Nov. 18 (4-10pm) | Saturday, Nov. 19 (Noon-10pm)

WHERE: DeVos Place, Downtown Grand Rapids — with over 100,000 square feet (nearly 3 acres).

COST: $15 – Thursday (and advanced ticket sales for Friday & Saturday); $20 – Friday & Saturday. 3-Day Pass – At $40, this option allows admission each day of the Festival and is intended for those who want to get the most out of their tasting experience. Online sales end Thursday, Nov. 17 at 5pm (Box Office sales for the pass end at 10pm on Thursday, Nov. 17).

Attendees must be 21 years of age and older. ID is required for admittance.

grw-3001On the menu

NEW! GR MIXER:

Blending together award-winning spirits and mixers into craft artisan cocktails, the region’s noted mixologist and distillers will serve up hands-on workshops guaranteed to educate and entertain. These complimentary 15-minute workshops will amp up your bartending skills, just in time for holiday entertaining with family and friends. Held in the new craft cocktail concourse along the river, each workshop limited to the  first 12 people who step up to the bar at the scheduled times.

Bartenders from six-one-six inside the JW Marriott are also planning an exciting “Chopped”-style competition during their Pairing (see below) aimed to perfectly match cocktails with prix fixe menu.

Held in the Secchia Lobby, running along the western edge of the Steelcase Ballroom, overlooking the Grand River.

THE ELITE WINE COLLECTION:
Located in the center of the Vineyard, inside the Steelcase Ballroom at DeVos Place, this special collection of wine has been selected by our consulting sommeliers and importing specialists as the “best of the best” top shelf vintages, chosen from among 1200 assorted wines. These high-end wines require a minimum 10-ticket ($5) tasting fee due to the cost of the product being served. Each of these wines have at least a 90-point value in a recognized wine rating system and are regarded as among the most elite wines of the festival according to industry experts. No need to invest hundreds of dollars in a full bottle—the Elite Wine Collection allows you the opportunity to sample these wines for a minimal cost.

BEER CITY STATION:
The Festival’s popular beer area returns to the Exhibit Hall C on the Main Floor of DeVos Place off the Grand Gallery. Step into the world of creative craft beers, imported and domestic brews, hard ciders and foods that pair well with both. Meet the American craft brewer—the small, independent and traditional producers who display passion and excitement for their unique beverages. New products, as well as traditional favorites, will be offered for sampling.

CIDER ROW:
Tap into the Cider Row at the Festival, featuring almost 20 cider producers from Michigan and nationally-known brands. Hard cider is among the fastest growing craft beverages, on a national scale. It is fermented to produce a range of flavors – from dry to sweet. Featured in the Beer City Station in Exhibit Hall C off of the Grand Gallery.

FLAVORED MALT BEVERAGES:
This sector of the beverage industry is taking off with hard iced tea; sodas—such as root beer, orange, cherry, lemon and other fruit flavors; seltzer waters and carbonated caffeinated products. Featured in the Beer City Station in Exhibit Hall C off the Grand Gallery.

GROWERS CHAMPAGNE FLIGHTS:
Add a little extra class to your glass with an intimate tasting with Bradford Hammerschmidt from Imperial Beverage. These special flights offer champagnes you will not find anywhere else in the Festival. Each of the champagnes will be paired with specially selected cheese and crudités. Flights offered Saturday at 4pm and 7pm only. The cost is $40 per person. Reservations may be made online, or on site – space permitting.

PAIRINGS:
Select restaurants partner with distinguished wineries and breweries for special Pairings – gourmet multi-course meals served on-site in a casual yet intimate “bar top” setting. Tickets are $45-$65 each and may be purchased in advance online or at the Festival on a first-come, first-served basis. This year’s restaurants include: Ganders, San Chez, six.one.six, Reds at Thousand Oaks and Wolfgang Puck’s The Kitchen.

ULTIMATE DINING OPPORTUNITIES:
Additionally, chefs from about a dozen of the area’s top restaurants prepare and serve small plates of their culinary specialties.

RENDEZBREW:
The Coffee, Cordials and Dessert Café will be open in the Grand Gallery for the duration of the Festival. Start your Festival experience, or make it a nightcap, with unique pairings of coffee, lattes and cocktails crafted for your enjoyment with a variety of cordials, indulgent sweets and other treats.

SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS:
Esteemed individuals from the culinary world host demonstrations on the Meijer Food Stage. Complimentary beverage seminars, held classroom-style in the rooms off the Grand Gallery, give attendees an in-depth look into the world of wine, beer and spirits. Cocktail workshops are also offered for a unique hands-on experience for those wishing to learn tricks of the trade from top leaders.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM:
Students from Ferris State University, the Culinary Institute of Michigan at Baker College in Muskegon, the Secchia Institute of Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Community College and Grand Valley State University work alongside industry leaders for a premier educational experience.

OFFICIAL PROGRAM: Download the official Festival program here.

WEBSITE: GRWineFestival.com

GET SOCIAL: Facebook.com/GRWineFestival | twitter.com/GRWineFestival | Instagram.com/GRWineFestival | #GRWineFest16

Wine connoisseurs have an abundance of choices this summer

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vineyards

 

Thanks to tremendous growth in Michigan wine and a spike in both quantity and quality of vineyards and wineries, West Michigan’s wine culture has quickly evolved into a tour de force with people around the world coming to try these new wine offerings. Here’s your opportunity to enjoy local wine by attending events, scheduling a tour or bringing home a bottle or two from these local wineries.

South

The Lansing Area has numerous downtown restaurants and they love to bring wines from around the world to Michigan. You can sample fares ranging from local wineries to some from within the United States and even other countries. Either way, you’re getting a diverse lineup of fantastic wines each with their own history and distinct style.

 

Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks offers two wine-influenced spirits. The Kissing Cousins is a Featherbone Bourbon that is aged for 15 months in their barrels and then an additional six in used wine barrels. Journeyman’s Fine Girl Brandy is distilled from Vidal Blanc grapes grown at St. Julian Winery before being aged in Last Feather Rye Whiskey barrels. You’ll find a unique take on wine here.

 

Dablon Winery & Vineyards in Baroda is a must visit in Southwest Michigan. They have a gorgeous tasting room and events throughout the summer. You can also take a tour with one of their winemakers through their vineyard, barrel room and wine production area. There is live music throughout the summer so that you can have a soundtrack to your tastings. Sip these handcrafted, estate-grown and -produced wines this summer.

 

Every month there is something happening on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. This July, enjoy some of the newest additions to the trail such as Cogdal Vineyards, Dablon Winery & Vineyards and Vineyard 2121. Wineries are close enough that you can enjoy two or three and come back next time for a few different ones. Get more out of your wine trips with a day on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail.

Central

8049585083_0c15e98520_kMuskegon has a great recurring event for wine lovers: The Art & a Glass event is your Thursday Happy Hour! Every Thursday from 4pm to 8pm, grab a glass and check out some of the great art pieces at the Muskegon Museum of Art. General admission is free during this event so this is a great opportunity to discover your local museum at no cost.

 

Bygone Basics Cooking School located at Amanda’s Bequest Bed & Breakfast in Montague will host their Pasta & Pinot event on July 23rd and 31st. Here, you’ll be able to learn how to make fresh pasta by hand! Enjoy a glass of wine there or bring your own. This event is all about the pasta, but wine is more than welcome as you cook and eat your pasta creation.

 

Downtown Ludington loves its wines. They have a boutique winery, tasting room and gift shop located right in the heart of downtown Ludington. They love their local and unique wines as they match their creations to the seasons.

 

Reserve Wine & Food in Grand Rapids offers over 100 wines by the glass in addition to their extensive bottle list. It has been recognized by USA Today as one of the top ten places in the country offering wine flights. Pair your favorite wine with one of their locally sourced dishes for a great evening of wining and dining with friends and family.

North

Black Star Farms in Traverse City has fun and unique experiences built around their wine. One of these is their Sunrise Sundays: Yoga in the Vines which is every Sunday in July. Enjoy one hour of gentle yoga followed by a special six-flight wine tasting. Following yoga, you will head over to their tasting room where you’ll be guided through your flight. If yoga isn’t your style, you can sample visit their tasting room where their helpful staff will help you explore their range of wines.

 

BH5

Hotel Walloon’s Wine Maker’s Weekend is November 4th and 5th. This year’s event will feature Adelsheim Vineyards from Williamette, Oregon. The meet and greet will be on Friday, November 4th while the dinner at Walloon Lake Inn will be on Saturday, November 5th.

Douglas Valley in Manistee transforms 640 acres into a sustainable vineyard community. At the center of Douglas Valley is their town square and winery, surrounded on all sides by orchards, vineyards and farms. The rolling hills and panoramic view of Lake Michigan adds a rhythm of nature that is remains unparalleled to this day.

 

Blustone Vineyard in Lake Leelanau started 20 years ago when the owner’s family visited the area for the first time. They quickly fell in love with the lakes, dunes, hills and fields. Now, the area is home to their vineyard and winery. Their love for family and this amazing part of Northern Michigan reflects in every glass of their wine.

 

Bellaire offers family-owned wineries with the scenic views of the area. Views such as Lake Bellaire, Torch Lake, and the vineyards where your favorite wines are produced will act as the backdrop to your perfect summer evening. Enjoy a glass or two as you spend time with friends and family.

 

Charlevoix has helped put Northern Michigan on the map for its famous wines. They have several locations that offer complimentary wine tasting including their Farmer’s Market every Thursday morning. There is even a specialty store that sells unique and hard-to-find wines both local and internationally.

grapes on vine

 

With a wine and mead tasting room in Beulah, St. Ambrose Cellars takes the ancient beverages of mead and wine and gives them a modern twist. They pride themselves on being a family friendly destination and are a must-see destination the next time you vacation up north. They’re pushing boundaries with their innovations in both flavor and process.

 

Situated on 190 acres of farm in Petoskey, Rudbeckia Winery is nestled in the rolling hills of the “Up North.” The winery has a beautiful view of both Lake Michigan and Walloon Lake. Of course, the main draw is their wine. They specialize in creating limited quantity, delicious artisanal wines that is a must taste for any enthusiast.

 

A visit to the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula is the perfect summer getaway. Enjoy nine unique wineries as you make your way through this beautiful part of our great state. The wineries include stunning views, tasting rooms, decks, hospitality and their signature wines.

More West Michigan Wineries

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Central
North
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