A recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that Michigan's wine grape acreage grew 12% from 2003 to 2006. Wine grape acreage in Michigan has increased 60% over the last 10 years.
"This updated data confirms the steady growth of the wine industry in the last decade," said Michigan Department of Agriculture Director of Agriculture Don Koivisto, who also chairs the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council. "Michigan's wineries are committed to the concept of regional identity by utilizing a high percentage of Michigan-grown fruit in their wines."
By far the largest recent vineyard plantings have been riesling; but pinot grigio, pinot noir, cabernet franc and vidal have also shown substantial increases. Traditional European varieties now account for two-thirds of Michigan's wine grape acreage. The balance is mainly comprised of hybrid varieties (crosses between European and native North American varieties).
The Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council set a target for industry growth at 10,000 acres by 2024, with current wine grape acreage estimated at 1,800 acres.
The photo was taken by artsy_T when she was up in Leelanau last weekend. You can see more of her Leelanau photos in this set and share your own in the Leelanau Wine group on Flickr!
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