Michigan Grape and Wine Industry CouncilGovernor Granholm Declares April “Michigan Wine Month”
Seven new wineries open for 2010, highlighting growth in Ag sector
LANSING, MI – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today recently declared April as “Michigan Wine Month” to honor Michigan’s wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry’s significant contribution to the economy. Michigan’s wine and grape industries contribute nearly $800 million to
the state’s economy each year.
Sales of Michigan wines in the state rose 10 percent in 2009, while total wine sales increased 6 percent. Michigan wine sales have outpaced total wine sales for the past 10 years, doubling the Michigan wineries’ market share to 6 percent.
“Michigan’s grape and wine industry continues to grow with seven new wineries slated to open this year,” Granholm said. ”Not only is our wine industry a vital component of the state’s agricultural sector, it’s also an important part of our tourism industry as hundreds of thousands of people visit Michigan’s Wine Country each year.”
“Michigan’s grape and wine industry demonstrates our food and Ag sectors continue to be ripe for growth and offer opportunities both for seasoned business leaders or budding entrepreneurs,” said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture director. ”April is a great time to kick off winery touring. Tasting rooms are less busy in the spring, and tasting room staff are delighted to have time to provide extra attention. Many of Michigan’s 71 wineries will begin to release new wines from the 2009 vintage this spring; additional red wines from the 2008 vintage will also be available.”
Several events are planned this spring and early summer that will provide opportunities to meet winemakers and sample a variety of Michigan wines, including:
– Michigan Wine Celebration: April 17 & 18 – Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail (www.pioneerwinetrail.com)
– Spring Sip & Savor: May 1 & 2 – Leelanau Peninsula Vintners
(www.lpwines.com)
– Blossom Days: May 15-16 – Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula
(www.wineriesofoldmission.com)
– Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival: June 19 – Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail (www.miwinetrail.com)
April will also see the release of the 2010 Michigan Wine Country magazine, an indispensable guide to the wines and wineries of Michigan.
The magazine contains maps and touring information, as well as a popular section on “what’s new at the wineries.” To request a free copy of Michigan Wine Country, visit www.michiganwines.com or contact the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council at 517-241-1207. The magazine is also available at all Michigan wineries and Travel Michigan Welcome
Centers.
