wineries

Amid a global downturn in wine consumption, northern Michigan wineries are offering experiences beyond drinking. For some, that means snowshoeing, or more live music or, yes, allowing visitors to get up close with live goats.

Michigan wineries are fighting back against a worldwide decline in wine consumption by leaning into tourism, special events, creative activities — and goats.

Northern Michigan wineries are leaning on hybrid grape varieties to withstand less predictable winters and other obstacles brought on by climate change.

Grape growers are planting hybrid grapes that can withstand colder temperatures, irrigating their vines rather than relying on natural rainfall and turning to new strategies to ensure healthy soil.

A citizens group is proposing its own idea for settling a legal battle between Peninsula Township and local wineries.

They say they'll talk about reducing the damages after Peninsula Township considers their revised zoning rules, which were deemed unconstitutional by a judge this summer.

After a federal judge’s ruling, Peninsula Township residents could be on the hook for $49 million in lost revenue to 11 Old Mission Peninsula wineries. And they're not excited about paying for it.

Peninsula Township, a community with just over 6,000 people, is facing a $50 million pay out after losing a federal lawsuit.

U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney said Peninsula Township's zoning ordinance is unconstitutional and harmed 11 wineries along Old Mission Peninsula.

Warm, dry weather means more time for grapes to ripen and fewer opportunities for disease.