Our founder, Bruce Simpson, went to study viticulture and oenology at the University of California Davis in 1970. In 1980, he and his wife, Debbie, began planting vineyards with many different grape varietals to discover which ones would survive and thrive in Northern Michigan. Back then, there were only four other wineries in the area, and it has now expanded into 30 more in the Leelanau Peninsula area. Our team has studied our history, the history of the grapes, and the process in which we turn them into our wonderful wines.

When thinking about visiting our wine tasting room in our off-site location, you probably have questions. Before you call, check out the frequently asked questions we receive from patrons. We gathered the best minds at Good Harbor Vineyards to help get you the answers necessary, but highly encourage you to reach out if you have more questions not listed below:

WHAT IS YOUR WINE TASTING FEE?

Unsure of what you would like to try? Get a flight of our many different offerings. We do more than wine! You can select from a range of sparkling wines, white wines, rosé wine, red wines, a fruit wine, and hard ciders. Our tasting fee of $15, which includes five wine samples of your choice. Feel free to discuss what you like about wine with the server to get help in deciding. We have studied a lot about wine, including tastes and how to pair them with our guests.

DO YOU OFFER FOOD?

Having food with your wine or cider can significantly enhance the experience and the flavors in your glass. Our team can help you find a pairing with your selected wine or cider or vice versa. You and your group can make an afternoon of it while visiting our wine tasting room in Northern Michigan. There a few snacks available for purchase including a charcuterie board, local Leelanau cheese spread, as well as some special featured items throughout the year. Please ask your server when you arrive about what is available for your party.

DO WE NEED RESERVATIONS FOR GROUP WINE TASTINGS?

For groups of 10 or more people, we recommend calling at least 48 hours in advance. This helps us ensure we have enough staff to provide your party with a pleasant experience in our wine tasting room. Please email us at tastingroom@goodharbor.com to notify us if you have a group of 10 or more people wishing to visit and taste. All other tastings are on a first-come, first-served basis, whether sitting outside on the patio or indoors.

IS THERE AN EXTRA FEE FOR GROUPS?

While we do not have a fee for groups, we do need 48-hours notice to be able to accommodate your group of 10 or more. There is plenty of wine to go around, but we want to ensure your party has enough room to safely enjoy the experience.  Please email us at tastingroom@goodharbor.com to notify us if you have a group of 10 or more people wishing to visit and taste. Without advanced notification, we cannot guarantee a tasting session.

DO YOU OFFER TOURS OF THE VINEYARDS?

Please email the Tasting Room Manager at tastingroom@goodharbor.com with inquiries.

IS YOUR WINERY PET FRIENDLY?

We love pets! However, the health department does not allow pets inside our licensed building and patio area. We welcome you to walk your pets on a leash around the property to let them stretch, but they cannot be in the tasting room or on the patio. Pets are welcome in our picnic area. They also must always be on a leash while on our property. We ask that you please tidy up after your pet to help keep the area clean.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT A WINE TASTING?

The first thing to remember about wine tastings at Good Harbor Vineyards is to have fun. We keep it casual and do not require ties and ballgowns. You will sample a few wines we have available, so be sure to have eaten before coming, although we do have some snacks available. You can also purchase water in between samples. We highly encourage questions and discussion about what you are tasting, smelling, and feeling when sampling our reds, whites, and fruit wine.

HOW WILL A WINE TASTING AFFECT ME?

There is no direct answer to this question as alcohol affects everyone differently. If you start to feel dizzy or drunk, please let your Good Harbor Vineyards team member know, and we can assist. We have food and water available. Please note that a tasting is equivalent to a glass of wine. If you know you have a low tolerance for wine or cider, we suggest swishing and spitting out each tasting.

WHAT ARE THE FIVE Ss OF WINE TASTING?

See – Swirl – Sniff – Sip – Savor

WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU ASK AT A WINE TASTING?

Whatever you want! Our team has studied not only the history of our vineyard and the way we create wine but how wine is created all over the world. We aim to educate you on anything you are interested in so, please feel free to ask us about Good Harbor Vineyards, the wine you are wine sampling, how we make/age it, and any other questions. 

HOW LONG DO WINE TASTINGS TAKE?

You should expect the Good Harbor Vineyards tasting to last about 30-45 minutes. Depending on your party's size and how inquisitive your group is about the process and wines, it could be longer or shorter.

Reach Out to Good Harbor Vineyards Today for a Wine Tasting

If you have any other questions, please contact us. While you do not need to schedule an appointment for your tasting, we ask for you to call ahead if your party includes ten or more people. We want to provide you and your group with the best possible experience when visiting Good Harbor Vineyards in Northern Michigan.