Traverse City Wineries Worth Visiting

We get asked all the time: Where should we go next? With so many incredible Traverse City wineries to explore, it’s a fun—but tough—question. While we don’t play favorites, we do have a few wineries we love to visit on our days off, especially when we're in the mood for exceptional sparkling wine.

Why Traverse City Wineries Stand Out

Traverse City is the heart of Northern Michigan Wine Country. Head west to Leelanau County—our home and home to over 20 wineries with sweeping vineyard views. Go north to the Old Mission Peninsula, an 18-mile stretch surrounded by water and packed with tasting rooms. To the northeast, Antrim County adds even more charm with its fruit orchards and emerging vineyards.

Both the Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula are official AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), recognized for their distinct climate and grape-growing potential.

Yes, Wine in Michigan—And It’s Good

Situated on the 45th parallel and surrounded by Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bays, Traverse City wineries benefit from ideal conditions for cool-climate grapes like Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and hybrids like Vignoles and Marquette. This results in wines with bright acidity—perfect for crafting world-class sparkling wine.

Start Here: MAWBY & bigLITTLE Wines

MAWBY specializes exclusively in sparkling wine and shares its property with bigLITTLE Wines, a small-batch winery focusing on still wines made from 100% Leelanau-grown fruit. Originally started by Larry Mawby, this hidden gem has been creating thoughtful wines for over 50 years. With its proximity to the Leelanau Trail, it’s a great place for those looking to bike, hit the nearby beaches, or shop in charming Suttons Bay.

Why Visit Both:

At MAWBY, sip sparkling-only selections. Then walk next door to bigLITTLE for a different take, including still varietals, a couple of sparklers, and even a dessert wine. Two wineries in one location means less travel and more fun!

Other Must-Visit Wineries in Traverse City

Left Foot Charley – Urban Sparkle in Downtown TC

The only winery in Traverse City proper, Left Foot Charley is located in the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons. They’ve been sourcing high-quality fruit from across Northern Michigan for over 20 years. They also offer a unique Barrel Room Experience where you can taste in a historic root cellar.

Insider Tip: Grab tamales or chips and dip from Spanglish next door and enjoy a picnic on the piazza. Make sure you explore the Village at Grand Traverse Commons and its unique history and shopping. 

2 Lads Winery – Sleek, Scenic, and Sophisticated

Perched near the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, 2 Lads boasts modern architecture and jaw-dropping East Bay views.

Insider Tip: This winery offers both guided and private wine tastings, a great option for those looking for a more intimate experience.

Shady Lane Cellars – Charm with a Sustainable Twist

Just down the road from MAWBY, Shady Lane Cellars is housed in a historic stone chicken coop on a century-old farm. Sustainability is a core value here, and it shows in every glass.

Insider Tip: Book a vineyard tour to learn more about their eco-friendly practices.

Black Star Farms – Rustic Luxury, All the Amenities

With locations on both the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, Black Star Farms has it all. The Suttons Bay location boasts an Inn, restaurant, tasting room, and more.

Insider Tip: Dine at Black Star Farms’ Bistro Polaris after a day of wine tasting, with live music every Saturday you’re sure to end the day on a high note!

Aurora Cellars – History, Beauty, and Bubbles

Run by the Simpson family, who’ve farmed in Leelanau County since the 1950s, Aurora Cellars is a perfect blend of warmth, elegance, and tradition.

Insider Tip: With its beautiful grounds and Victorian farmhouse, it’s a perfect venue for your wedding or private event!

BOS Wine – Small Batch, Big Flavor

Located just 20 minutes north of Traverse City in Elk Rapids, BOS Wine is set in a charming farmhouse with an intimate tasting room and curated wine flights.

Insider Tip: BOS Wine not only offers fantastic wines, they also love to bring people together. With a full events calendar to choose from, there’s something for everyone.

Final Sip

Whether you're sipping on a rustic farm or in a modern tasting room with bay views, the best wineries in Traverse City and beyond offer unforgettable sparkling wine experiences. Start your adventure at MAWBY and bigLITTLE Wines, then explore more bubbles throughout Leelanau and Old Mission.

Traverse City wineries are ready to pour something special—cheers to your next visit!