Explore Old Mission Peninsula's wineries, orchards and scenic year-round drives

Old Mission Peninsula, north of Traverse City, is a short but scenic tongue of land that extends into West Grand Traverse Bay. The 19-mile peninsula combines cool-climate vineyards, orchards and shoreline views along M-37 to create a year-round visitor circuit that matters to Grand Traverse County residents because it sustains hospitality jobs, farm revenues and off-season tourism flows.

Visitor guides vary on how many wineries operate on the peninsula. Some sources describe the trail as including nine wineries while others list ten, and one guide calls it “nearly a dozen.” The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail invites guests to take the route at their own pace and notes that tastings are offered all year round. Self-guided visitors can stop at one, several or all of the wineries, private shuttle buses are available, and the trail site says “tickets and reservations are not required” while urging groups to call ahead.

The peninsula’s narrow, hilly terrain and surrounding waters create a protective microclimate that delays spring budding and staves off early frost, making the area well suited to Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and ice wines. M-37 runs the length of the peninsula and provides one of Michigan’s most picturesque drives, winding past vineyards, orchards and hilltop lake views. Local photo spots include Center Road and Smokey Hollow Road for autumn color and the Old Mission Point Lighthouse for shoreline vistas. A scenic turnoff just above Chateau Grand Traverse’s fields offers rolling vineyard views and is a strong sunset vantage point.

Several wineries stand out for residents and visitors planning a day trip. Chateau Chantal, at 15900 Rue de Vin, blends an inn and event center with a tasting room and is described as “known for breathtaking views and romantic ambiance.” DaisyRaeTravel profiles the owners Robert and Nadine Begin and reports the couple purchased the property in 1983 and remain hands-on; tasting-room recommendations there include Chardonnay, late harvest Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Chateau Grand Traverse, listed at 12239 Center Rd, is noted for lake views and the scenic turnout off M-37. Black Star Farms maintains locations on both Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas and recently opened an outdoor tasting area on Old Mission that offers wines and spirits. Mari Vineyard uses sustainable energy and techniques aimed at extending the growing season and offers daily tastings. Peninsula Cellars occupies a converted schoolhouse and Brys Estate is recommended for rosé and lavender-focused offerings. Guides also highlight Nellaserra red wines.

Beyond wine, the peninsula supports restaurants, a brewery/distillery, beaches, antique shops and cozy inns, providing multiple revenue streams for local businesses. Events and live music are common at tasting rooms, and seasonal promotions such as a November mac and cheese bake-off paired with wine appear on local calendars. Practical planning notes for residents and visitors: travel time from downtown Traverse City ranges from about 10 to 25 minutes, many wineries offer tastings daily and by the glass, private shuttles are listed on the trail site, and winery clubs and event calendars are worth checking before a visit. An October 2022 advisory in one guide recommends checking for updated details on experiences and reservations.

For Grand Traverse County readers, the peninsula remains a nearshore economic engine and an accessible outdoor destination through all seasons. Expect continued emphasis on small‑scale hospitality, event programming and sustainable vineyard practices as wineries adapt to visitor demand and seasonal conditions on the peninsula.