Last year, Gov. Rick Snyder designated April “Michigan Wine Month” as a way to recognize the achievements and economic contributions of the Michigan wine industry.
Michigan wineries employ more than 5,000 people and bring an estimated $790 million to the state. Michigan’s 14,600 acres of vineyards annually produce 1 million gallons of wines, ranging from dry and sweet to ice wine, sparkling, fortified, fruit wines, and eau-de-vie (fruit brandy).
April Michigan wine events include:
Michigan International Wine Expo: Wine tastings, food sampling from local restaurants, and seminars.
5-10 p.m. Fri., 4-9 p.m. Sat. April 13-14. Suburban Collection Showplace, Novi; michiganwineexpo.com.
Michigan Wine Celebration: Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail presents a self-driven tour with eight stops at wineries along U.S. 125 from Blissfield to Haslett. Each stop provides an appetizer or dessert prepared by a local chef to complement the tasting. Two-day tickets are $25 (sold through April 18).
11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat., noon-6 p.m. Sun. April 21-22.; 517-531-3080, pioneerwinetrail.com.
Like a Fine Wine, LAP Only Gets Better With Time: A silent auction, 50/50 drawing, and a raffle are a part of this fund-raising event. A live jazz orchestra and performance by singer and guitarist Aaron Perry. Food specialties and Michigan wines are showcased.
$60-$100. 6 p.m. April 20. Michigan State University football stadium, Spartan Towers, East Lansing; 517-372-6671 (LAP Respite Center), laprespitecenter.org.
What’s Cooking Detroit: This food/cooking expo presents demonstrations by noted chefs, hands-on workshops, food sampling, wine tasting, contests, and recipes. $12-$22, VIP $50-$60.
Noon-7 p.m. April 21. The Palace of Auburn Hills, whatscookingdetroit.com.
Michigan Wine Showcase: This tasting party offers award-winning Michigan wines and culinary creations from the Rattlesnake Club. Discuss wines with winemakers and winery owners.
April 30. 300 River Place, Detroit, 517-241-4468.
More information: michiganwines.com.
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