Exploring Leelanau Peninsula: The Gem of Michigan Wine Country

Tucked away along the northwestern coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula lies a destination that surprises and delights even seasoned wine lovers: Leelanau Peninsula. With its rolling hills, panoramic water views, and quiet charm, it’s home to some of the most captivating wines in the Midwest.

And at the heart of it all is Rove Winery, where the grapes are estate-grown and the experience is every bit as refreshing as the lake breeze.

A Perfect Place for the Grape to Grow

Leelanau Peninsula may feel off the beaten path, but for grapes, it’s a dream. The region benefits from a unique “lake effect” created by Lake Michigan, which acts as a natural temperature buffer.

While winters in Northern Michigan are cold and snowy, springs arrive gently, and the growing season is extended just enough to allow grapes to develop the complexity and structure needed for beautiful, balanced wines.

Beneath the surface, the soil tells its own story of mineral-rich glacial deposits left behind from centuries past. These diverse soil compositions lend depth and character to the wines, offering a sense of place in every sip.

Meet the Grapes That Thrive Here

Cool-climate varietals flourish on the peninsula, producing crisp, expressive wines with refreshing acidity and nuanced aromas.

Riesling is a standout, offering everything from dry, citrusy zingers to lush, late-harvest pours that lean into honey and stone fruit. Chardonnay shows its versatility here, too, ranging from bright and unoaked to creamy and barrel-aged.

Sauvignon Blanc (one of Rove Winery’s flagship wines) brings vibrant acidity and notes of grapefruit and green apple. It’s a refreshing favorite for summer sipping and a rising star on wine lists around the world.

Pinot Noir brings elegance with its notes of red berries and forest floor, while Pinot Blanc and Gewürztraminer showcase delicate florals and tropical hints.

Even reds like Merlot have found a foothold, delivering lighter-bodied, food-friendly pours with finesse.

Here’s a closer look at some of the standout varietals grown in the Leelanau Peninsula and how they shine in the glass and on the plate.

Grape Variety	Flavor Notes	Best Pairings
Chardonnay	Pear, lemon, toast (if oaked)	Seafood, roasted chicken, pasta
Gewürztraminer	Lychee, rose, ginger spice	Indian food, creamy cheeses, fruit
Merlot	Blackberry, plum, soft tannin	Burgers, BBQ ribs, sharp cheeses
Pinot Noir	Cherry, earth, light spice	Salmon, mushroom dishes, duck
Riesling	Citrus, green apple, honeysuckle	Thai food, pork, fresh cheeses
Sauvignon Blanc	Grapefruit, green apple, zesty acidity	Goat cheese, grilled vegetables, ceviche

Plan Your Visit to Michigan Wine Country

Leelanau is stunning in every season. In spring, the vineyards come to life with fresh green growth. Summer brings music on the patios, picnics with vineyard views, and long, golden hours of daylight. Autumn sets the peninsula aglow with fall colors, an unforgettable time to tour the tasting rooms.

Traverse City, just a short drive away, offers lodging, restaurants, and access to the beautiful Grand Traverse Bay.

To help plan your visit, check out our following guides:

And when you visit Rove Winery, you’ll be treated to more than just a tasting. You’ll enjoy panoramic views, relaxed vibes, and wines that tell the story of this land.

Rove Winery: Grown Here, Made Here, Loved Everywhere

At Rove Winery, we’re proud to call Leelanau home. Our vines are rooted in the land, and our wines are a reflection of the seasons, the soil, and the people who tend the grapes with care.

With a focus on estate-grown varietals, we craft wines that honor tradition while celebrating innovation.

Sip on our Ragaire Rosé and you’ll find a crisp, refreshing profile with notes of strawberries and a whisper of herbs. It’s perfect for sunny afternoons and lakeside picnics.
Our Select Harvest Riesling is a true expression of Leelanau’s terroir: vibrant, aromatic, and beautifully balanced.
And for something rich and elegant, the Reserve Oaked Chardonnay offers subtle oak, golden fruit, and a velvety finish.

Can’t Make the Trip? We’ll Ship the Experience!

Not in Michigan? You can still experience Leelanau in a glass.

Our online shop and Wine Club bring the beauty of the peninsula right to your doorstep. Whether you’re stocking up for a dinner party or sending a gift to someone special, our wines are available for direct shipping in select states.

Wine Club members enjoy seasonal shipments, exclusive releases, and first access to limited bottlings.

To learn more about Wine Club, read A Glass Apart: Exploring the Exclusive World of Wine Clubs. Or join the Wine Club here.

Discover Leelanau, Discover Rove

The secret’s out: Leelanau Peninsula is a wine country worth knowing and tasting. With its spectacular scenery, passionate vintners, and unforgettable wines, this northern haven invites you to slow down, sip, and savor.

Cheers to discovery – glass by glass.

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