Raftshol Vineyards
0
First a dairy enterprise, and then a cherry orchard, this farm now annually produces over 1000 cases of Bordeaux varietal red wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, and also produces fine Chardonnay, Riesling, and Gewurztraminer white wines.
Brothers Warren and Curtis Raftshol began the latest incarnation of their family farm in 1985. They were the first vineyard in the area to grow commercial-sized plantings of red vinifera grapes, which most local growers believed would fail in our northern climate. Their gamble paid off, as they are still renowned for Raftshol Red, one of the first red wines made in Northern Michigan (produced by Peninsula Cellars of Old Mission). Other local vineyards have since followed the Raftshol’s lead and are now growing red grapes.
A picture of the Raftshol’s mother Jean when she was twenty, graces the sign at the road. Because of Jean’s foresight in keeping the farm for her children, the Raftshol brothers are able to continue the long and honorable family tradition of earning a living from the land. The Raftshol Vineyards’ wine tasting room is open from noon until 5 p.m., seven days a week, year round.
Raftshol Vineyards
1865 N West Bay Shore Drive
Suttons Bay, MI 49682
231-271-5650
We are located on the Leelanau Peninsula of Michigan where the cool climate creates our deliciously vibrant wines. This unique climate allows our winemaker Adam Satchwell to honor nature’s ripe fruit qualities in every hand-crafted bottle of Shady Lane.
We began by planting Chardonnay, followed by Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Our gate is open for you to experience the breathtaking views of West Bay.
Our hand-crafted wines are made with care from grapes grown in our family-owned vineyard located in the heart of Leelanau County.
We’re located at the top of Crain Hill Road, close to Grand Traverse Bay and 5 miles from downtown Traverse City.
A unique stop on the Leelanau wine trail, Tandem Ciders specializes in artisanal hard ciders. In the major apple growing regions of Europe, a culture has developed around the enjoyment and deep appreciation of cider, of both the traditional production processes as well as the apples themselves. Cider plays an important role in these areas by helping create a healthy, relaxing lifestyle that revolves around a profound connection to the land and its offerings.
Cherry wines from the people who know cherries! 100% Cherry Wine, Cherry Red, Sparkling Cherry Wine, and more, carefully crafted from Leelanau County’s finest fruits.
