|
|
|||
| Grapes | |||
);)
Michigan has 13,500 acres of vineyards making us the fourth largest grape-growing state.Leelanau County has about 275 acres of grapes and become quite a popular fruit to grow because of the county's favorable soil & climate. About 1,500 acres are devoted to wine grapes, making us eighth in wine grape production. Michigan's 39 wineries produce more than 200,000 cases of wine annually, making Michigan 13th in wine production. There are 13 wineries located in Leelanau County. Wineries are popular tourist destinations, attracting more than 600,000 visitors annually. (To locate a winery in Michigan, click on "Michigan Wines" below.) Wine production and winery tourism annually contribute $75 million to the state's economy. Three types of grapes are used for wine in Michigan: Vinifera varieties — these are the classic European varieties such as Chardonnay, Riesling (the most widely planted white), Pinot Noir (the most widely planted red), Pinot Grigio/Gris and Cabernet Franc; 58% of Michigan's wine grapes are vinifera. Since 1998, 71% of the new plantings in Michigan have been vinifera varieties. Hybrid varieties (sometimes called French/American hybrids) — these are botanical crosses between vinifera varieties and grapes native to North America. Typical names are Vidal, Chambourcin, Marechal Foch and Vignoles; 39% of Michigan's wine grapes are hybrids. Native varieties — actually close relatives of true native varieties. Typical names are Concord and Niagara. Only 3% of Michigan's wine is made from these varieties. (facts courtesy of Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council) |
|||
|
Top | ||
|
Related Links: |
|||
|
|||
This page last updated on 7/20/2006.