This Weekend in Michigan Wine (April 5-8) - Michigan By The Bottle

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Thursday, April 5: (un)Corked Wine Tasting Michigan Superstars: J. Trees Cellars?
(*PLEASE NOTE LOCATION CHANGE SINCE ORIGINAL POSTING)
The Produce Station is putting on an (un)Corked Wine Tasting featuring J. Trees Cellars in Blissfield . The event, hosted by Eric Lundy and Jorge Lopez Chavez, will take place at The Last Word in Ann Arbor, 7:30-8:30 p.m. The tasting fee of $10 includes a sampling of five wines. To purchase tickets online, visithttp://www.producestation.com/events/tastings.php. No tickets will be available at the door, as the monthly (un)Corked events typically sell out in advance.

Thursday, April 5: Thirsty Thursday featuring Voris, Harris & Stephenson at Sandhill Crane?
Voris, Harris & Stephenson, a jazz ensemble, will perform 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson. An expanded menu will be available in the winery's caf?, including appetizers, soups, sandwiches, desserts and dinner selections. The cover charge of $5 per person includes music and wine tasting. For more information, call (517) 764-0679 or visit?http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.

Friday, April 6: Lawton Ridge on the Road: Kalamazoo Cheese Lady
Crick Haltom of Lawton Ridge Winery in Kalamazoo will be at the Kalamazoo Cheese Lady in Texas Corners, 3-5 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.lawtonridgewinery.com.

Saturday, April 7: Lawton Ridge on the Road: Harding's Woodbridge
Lawton Ridge Winery in Kalamazoo will be sampling wine at the Harding's Woodbridge store, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.lawtonridgewinery.com.

Saturday, April 7: Sandhill Crane Addition Grand Opening
Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson will host a celebration highlighting its newly opened addition, which includes a caf?, small banquet/event room, commercial kitchen, more restrooms and an expanded cellar. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, cellar tours and release of a new port, 840. The event is free. For more information, visit?http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.?
*MBTB will be there!?

Saturday, April 7: Bowers Harbor Wine Dinner at The Boathouse
The Boathouse restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula will host a Bowers Harbor Vineyards wine dinner, featuring five courses paired with wine. The cost is $55 per person. To make a reservation, call (231) 223-4030.

Saturday, April 7: Victor Traschel Live at Sleeping Bear Winery
Victor Trachsel will croon classics ranging from Frank Sinatra to Gershwin to Cole Porter at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit?http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.

Coming up...??

Wednesday, April 11: Bowers Harbor Wine Dinner at Mercy's in the Bell Tower
Mercy's in the Bell Tower in Ann Arbor will host a Bowers Harbor Vineyards wine dinner, beginning at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call Mercy's at (734) 769-3010.

Thursday, April 12: St. Julian Wine Tasting at Tavern on McGillen
St. Julian President Dave Braganini will guide visitors through a tasting of St. Julian at Tavern on McGillen in Mattawan, starting at 6 p.m. Attendees can taste six wines for $6. Seating is limited. For more information or for reservations, call (269) 668-7515.

Thursday, April 12: Thirsty Thursday featuring Ronnie Chmielewski at Sandhill Crane?
Ronnie Chmielewski will perform live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson. An expanded menu will be available in the winery's caf?, including appetizers, soups, sandwiches, desserts and dinner selections. The cover charge of $5 per person includes music and wine tasting. For more information, call (517) 764-0679 or visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.

Thursday, April 12: White Pine Wine Dinner at Bistro on the Boulevard
Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joseph will host a dinner featuring the wines of White Pine Winery, starting at 7 p.m. Reservations are available by calling (269) 983-3882. For more information, visit http://www.theboulevardinn.com.

Thursday, April 12: West Central Wine Trail Spring Vintage Unveiling
The wineries of the West Central Wine Trail will hold its Spring Vintage Unveiling at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville, 6-9 p.m. Purchase tickets at participating wineries for $15, which includes five tastings. Additional tastings will be available for a nominal fee. For more information, visit the Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/events/171699169611511.

Thursday, April 12: Bowers Harbor Vertical Tasting at Reserve GR
Reserve GR in Grand Rapids will host a vertical wine tasting event featuring Bowers Harbor wines, starting at 6 p.m. For more information, call Reserve at (616) 855-WINE or visit the Facebook event page:?http://www.facebook.com/events/247205972035816.

Thursday, April 12: All-Michigan "Not So Taxing" Wine Event
The BOB in Grand Rapids will host this annual celebration that puts a new spin on tax day. The informal wine tasting is set to feature 30 Michigan wineries sampling more than 100 wines. Visitors also can meet the winemakers. The event runs 6-9 p.m. Call the BOB for details at (616) 356-2627.

Friday, April 13: Wine and Fitness
Learn how wine and fitness can come together during this event led by Ray and Jennifer Antel of Runners Who Love to Wine and hosted by Gazelle Sports in Grand Rapids. Black Star Farms winemaker Lee Lutes also will be on hand to host a wine tasting. For more information, visit http://www.gazellesports.com.

Friday, April 13: Noto's Charity Spring 2012 Wine Fest
Noto's Old World Dining in Grand Rapids will host its Spring Wine Fest 7-10 p.m. to benefit six local nonprofit groups, with half of VIP ticket sales, a portion of each general admission ticket and proceeds from a silent auction going to the organizations. The event features food prepared by Noto's chefs and accompanied by more than 300 wines from Italy, Michigan and elsewhere around the world. The cost for general admission is $60 in advance or $65 the day of the event; VIP tickets are $100 in advance or $110 the day of. For more information, call (616) 493-6686 or visit http://www.notosoldworld.com.

Saturday, April 14: Dinner Concert with Jill Jack at Lone Oak
Lone Oak Vineyard Estate in Grass Lake will host an "up close and personal" evening dinner concert featuring Jill Jack, 6-9 p.m. The cost is $30 per person for dinner and the show. For reservations, call (517) 522-8167. For more information, visit http://www.loneoakvineyards.com.

Saturday, April 14: Northern Wine Loop New Release Weekend
On the heels of a private Friday event at the Bluebird in Leland, featuring tasting by a panel of chefs, media and wine experts, the Northern Wine Loop ? a group of Leelanau Peninsula wineries located north of M-204 ??will host a public event 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, including a "People's Choice" tasting. Visitors can stop by each of the 10 Northern Wine Loop sites for a day of new releases and vote on their favorites. For more information, visit the Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/events/374789599207266.
*MBTB will be there!

Saturday, April 14: Grapevine Pruning Seminar at Sleeping Bear Winery
Master Vineyard Manager Tony Bird will conduct a free seminar on basic grapevine care and pruning at Sleeping Bear Winery in Albion, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Attendees should wear garden clothes and bring pruning shears. To register, call (517) 531-7777.

Saturday, April 14: Brian Tucker Live at Sleeping Bear Winery
Brian Tucker will take to the stage with his acoustic guitar at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.

Wednesday, April 18: WOMP Wine Dinner at Salt of the Earth
Salt of the Earth in Fennville will host a wine dinner featuring wines from the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula and cuisine prepared by SotE's chef, Matthew Pietsch, and guest chef Adam McMarland from The Bay Leaf. For more information, visit http://www.saltoftheearthfennville.com.

Wednesday, April 18: Girls Night Out at Douglas Valley
Douglas Valley Organic Vineyards in Manistee will host Girls Night Out, 7-9 p.m. The evening will feature wine, shopping and light refreshments. Miche representative Tracey Tomaszewski and Silpada representative Jennifer Buckner will be on hand to help attendees find a "fun and stylish" Mother's Day present. For more information, visit the Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/events/201751766600710.

Thursday, April 19: Thirsty Thursday featuring Brad Maitland at Sandhill Crane?
Brad Maitland will perform live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson. An expanded menu will be available in the winery's caf?, including appetizers, soups, sandwiches, desserts and dinner selections. The cover charge of $5 per person includes music and wine tasting. For more information, call (517) 764-0679 or visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.

Thursday, April 19: Circa Wine Dinner at the Rattlesnake Club
Chef Chris Franz will pair delicious cuisine with Circa wines at the Rattlesnake Club in Detroit. For more information, visit http://www.rattlesnakeclub.com or call (313) 567-4400.

Thursday, April 19: Brys Estate New Release Wine Dinner at The Cooks' House
Celebrate new wines from the 2011 vintage alongside five courses prepared by acclaimed chefs Eric Patterson and Jennifer Blakeslee during a Brys Estate New Release Wine Dinner at The Cooks' House in Traverse City. The cost is $80 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For more information or reservations, call The Cooks' House at (231) 946-8700 or visit http://thecookshouse.net.

Friday, April 20: Brys Estate New Release Wine Dinner at The Boathouse
The Boathouse restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula will host a wine dinner featuring Brys Estate's new releases from the 2011 vintage. For more information, call (231) 223-4030.??

Friday, April 20: Like a Fine Wine, LAP Only Gets Better with Time Fundraiser
Visitors can enjoy Michigan wine and food pairings at the Michigan State University Stadium Towers, overlooking MSU's East Lansing Campus, during this third annual fundraising event benefiting the Lansing Area Parents? Respite Center. There also will be a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, raffle and live jazz. Tickets are $75 apiece, or $60 for a single ticket and $100 for a couple when purchased before April 1. For more information, visit http://www.laprespitecenter.com/Events/LikeaFineWineLAPOnlyGetBetterWithTime.aspx.

Friday, April 20-Saturday, April 21: Chefs Challenge at Boyne Mountain
This epicurean celebration at Boyne Mountain Resort in Boyne Falls, featuring Michigan wines, microbrews and spirits alongside fine food, will benefit Challenge Mountain, a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of the mentally and physically disabled via outdoor recreation. The event includes various components, including free seminars, Taste of Michigan competitions, demonstrations, exhibits and a cook-off dinner. For more information, visit http://www.chefs-challenge.com.

Friday, April 20-Sunday, April 22: Earth Day Wine & Food Celebration at Lemon Creek
Lemon Creek Winery's Grand Haven tasting room will host three days of live music, gourmet food tasting, a book signing and tree sales in honor of Earth Day. On Friday, there will be wine and food tastings with live music from Jon Workman, a singer/songwriter from Muskegon, 6-8 p.m. On Saturday, small businesses from throughout Michigan will offer samples and sell their artisan-crafted foods during a "gourmet foodie event," noon-6 p.m., and Susan Clemente, author of "Michigan's Guide to Local Cooking," will sign and sell books, 2-4 p.m. Admission to the Saturday festivities is free, and the tasting room also will be open until 8 p.m. On Sunday, the Kent County and Ottawa County conservation districts will be on site, 2-6 p.m., to offer various native Michigan trees for purchase. Reusable wine totes will be given to the first 22 customers who purchase a tree and buy $20 worth of wine. Live music will be supplied by Dana and Jimmy Gretzinger, 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. For more information, call Lemon Creek's Grand Haven location? at (616) 844-1709 or visit http://www.lemoncreekwinery.com.

Saturday, April 21: Spring Fling Wine Festival
Sample Michigan wines ??along with live entertainment, an appetizer bar and local art ? at this 1-10 p.m. event at the Silver Beach Hotel in St. Joseph. The ticket price of $10 (for attendees age 21 and up) includes two tasting tickets and a souvenir tasting glass. On-site bottle sales also are available. Ticket sales are available at the hotel's front desk. For more information, email stjoesilverbeachhotel@gmail.com or call (269) 983-7341.?

Saturday, April 21: Michigan Wine Tasting at Food Dance
Food Dance Market in Kalamazoo will host a noon-7 p.m. tasting of Late Harvest Riesling from Black Star Farms, Capriccio from Fenn Valley and M. Lawrence Sex from L. Mawby. All will be paired with cheeses by Meghan, the market's "cheese guru." Wine case and cheese purchase discounts will be available all day. The market's restaurant also is offering a Michigan wine flight for purchase alongside lunch or dinner. For more information, visit the Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/events/400902909939538.

Saturday, April 21: JVO and We Are the Ink Monkey at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery
John Voelz and We Are the Ink Monkey will supply musical entertainment at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.??

Saturday, April 21: What's Cooking Detroit
Circa Estate Winery, Black Star Farms and Flying Otter Vineyard and Winery will be among those pouring in the Wine and Spirits Pavilion during What's Cooking Detroit at the Palace of Auburn Hills. The event, which runs noon-7 p.m., will feature celebrity chefs, cooking demonstrations, wine tasting and pairings, contests, hands-on workshops, kitchen gadgets and appliances, food and kitchen exhibits, and more. General admission tickets are $12 in advance or $16 at the door; upgraded general admission tickets are $18 in advance or $22 at the door; and VIP tickets, which include access to a celebrity cooking stage, are $50 in advance or $60 at the door. A "sampling passport" for the Wine & Spirits Pavilion is $10. For more information, visit http://www.whatscookingdetroit.com.

Saturday, April 21-Sunday, April 22: Pioneer Wine Trail Michigan Wine Celebration
Each winery along the Southeast Michigan Pioneer WIne Trail will offer up an appetizer or dessert made by a local chef, paired with a featured wine, during this self-guided tour of the trail. Participants also will receive a tasting glass and cards containing the featured recipes. The cost is $25, and ticketholders can visit as many of the wineries as they choose over the two-day period. Ticket sales end at midnight April 18, or when supplies are depleted. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.pioneerwinetrail.com. For more information, visit the site or call (517) 592-4663 or (517) 531-3080.

Wednesday, April 25: Chateau Chantal Wine Dinner at Hanna Bistro
Chateau Chantal winemaker Mark Johnson will be on hand at Hanna Bistro in Traverse City for this dinner featuring paired wines from CC. The event starts at 6 p.m. Menu and pricing TBD. For more information, visit http://www.chateauchantal.com.

Thursday, April 26: Brys Estate New Release Wine Dinner at the Bistro
A wine dinner at the Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joseph will celebrate Brys Estate's newly released wines from the 2011 vintage. The event begins at 7 p.m. For more information, call (269) 983-3882 or visit http://www.theboulevardinn.com/events.

Thursday, April 26: Bowers Harbor Wine Dinner at The Cooks' House
The Cooks' House in Traverse City will serve up a multi-course dinner alongside Bowers Harbor wines during this event, starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call The Cooks' House at (231) 946-8700.

Thursday, April 26: Brys Estate Wine Dinner at Bistro on the Boulevard
Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joseph will host a dinner featuring the wines of Brys Estate Vineyards & Winery, starting at 7 p.m. Reservations are available by calling (269) 983-3882. For more information, visit http://www.theboulevardinn.com.

Thursday, April 26: Thirsty Thursday featuring Jake Reichbart at Sandhill Crane?
Jake Reichbart will perform live music 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson. An expanded menu will be available in the winery's caf?, including appetizers, soups, sandwiches, desserts and dinner selections. The cover charge of $5 per person includes music and wine tasting. For more information, call (517) 764-0679 or visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.?

Friday, April 27: Taster's Guild Gala Dinner featuring Chateau Chantal
The Taster's Guild will hold its 25th anniversary Gala Dinner ? the culmination of the Annual Taster's Guild International Wine Judging ? at The BOB in Grand Rapids, featuring the guild's 2011 Winery of the Year, Chateau Chantal. A six-course meal prepared by The BOB's chefs will be served alongside CC wines. The event begins at 6:45 p.m. For more information, call (616) 454-7815. Reservations must be received by April 23.??

Saturday, April 28: Mesche and Schmidt at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery
The musical duo Mesche and Schmidt will make their first-ever appearance at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.?

Saturday, April 28: Wine Immersion Seminar at Chateau Chantal
Chateau Chantal on Old Mission Peninsula will host a wine immersion seminar that starts at 11 a.m. and concludes with a leisurely, six-course dinner ??with accompanying wines ??prepared by Chef Perry Harmon. The event will include both classroom-style and hands-on experiences, with a cellar tour and explanation of winemaking process, vineyard walk, discussion on the art of tasting, peasant's lunch and more. The cost is $145 per person. For more information or to sign up, visit http://www.chateauchantal.com/event-calendar.

Saturday, April 28: Gill's Pier Wine Dinner at The Manor on Glen Lake
Gill's Pier Vineyard & Winery on Leelanau Peninsula is partnering with The Manor on Glen Lake in Empire for a five-course wine dinner, 6-9 p.m. Culinary experts from The Manor will whip up delicious dishes paired with wines from Gill's Pier. The restaurant overlooks the famed Sleeping bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park. Tickets are $45 per person; reservations are suggested. For more information, visit http://www.gillspier.com or http://www.themanoronglenlake.com.

Saturday, April 28: Dinner Concert with Ian Stewart at Lone Oak
Lone Oak Vineyard Estate in Grass Lake will host an evening dinner concert featuring Ian Stewart, 6-9 p.m. The cost is $20 per person for dinner and the show. For reservations, call (517) 522-8167. For more information, visit http://www.loneoakvineyards.com.

Saturday, April 28: Wine Immersion Seminar at Chateau Chantal
Chateau Chantal on Old Mission Peninsula will host a wine immersion seminar that starts at 11 a.m. and concludes with a leisurely, six-course dinner ??with accompanying wines ??prepared by Chef Perry Harmon. The event will include both classroom-style and hands-on experiences, with a cellar tour and explanation of winemaking process, vineyard walk, discussion on the art of tasting, peasant's lunch and more. The cost is $145 per person. For more information or to sign up, visit http://www.chateauchantal.com/event-calendar.

Saturday, April 28: Brazilian Ethnic Winemaker's Dinner at Fenn Valley
Fenn Valley Vineyards will host a winemaker's dinner highlighting the cuisine of various regions of Brazil, prepared by chef Christine Ferris and the winemaker's wife, Celita, a native of Brazil. The meal ??which includes four courses, plus a reception and dessert ? will be paired with Fenn Valley wines. The cost is $75 per person, all inclusive. For a complete menu, visit http://www.fennvalley.com. For reservations, contact Fenn Valley at (269) 561-2396.

Sunday, April 29: Sunday Jazz Session at Chateau Chantal
Enjoy a free afternoon of jazz at Chateau Chantal, 3-5:30 p.m. The environment is family-friendly, with lemonade available for kids and wine tasting available for adults. For more information, call (231) 223-4110 or email wine@chateauchantal.com.?

Sunday, April 29: 555 at Lawton Ridge Winery
The Kalamazoo Cheese Lady will return to Lawton Ridge Winery in Kalamazoo for "555," with five wines paired with five cheeses for $5 at 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Seating time can be reserved by calling (269) 372-9463.

Sunday, April 29: Open House at Sandhill Crane
Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson will hold an open house, noon-6 p.m., featuring the new release of the award-winning Vidal Blanc and live music from Dan Phillips/BluHott Jam, 2-5 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.?

Monday, April 30: Michigan Wine Showcase
The Rattlesnake Club in Detroit will host the annual Michigan Wine Showcase, featuring booths and samples from a myriad of Michigan wineries, along with cuisine from the 'Snake. The event will serve as a preview of many of the 2011 vintage wines. After a trade show earlier in the day, a public portion runs 6-8:30 p.m. Tickets are $40 in advance and $45 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit http://www.michiganwines.com/showcase or call Karel Bush at (517) 241-4468.
*MBTB will be there!

Tuesday, May 1: (un)Corked Wine Tasting Michigan Superstars: 2 Lads Winery?
The Produce Station is putting on an (un)Corked Wine Tasting featuring 2 Lads Winery, on Old Mission Peninsula. Chris Baldyga, the "dynamic and witty frontman of 2 Lads" will be in attendance at the event, which will take place at The Last Word in Ann Arbor, 7:30-8:30 p.m. The tasting fee of $10 includes a sampling of five wines. To purchase tickets online, visit http://www.localwineevents.com/events/detail/417013. No tickets will be available at the door, as the monthly (un)Corked events typically sell out in advance. For more information, visit the Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/events/301277456610574.?

Thursday, May 3: Knit & Sip at Sandhill Crane
Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson is starting up its Knit & Sip nights on the first Thursday of every month, 6-8:30 p.m. Coinciding with the winery's Thirsty Thursday events, the Knit & Sip nights allow knitters, crocheters and spinners to listen to music and order from the caf? if desired while performing their craft in the banquet room, where they can chat as they work. There is no charge for admission. For more information, visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com. ?

Friday, May 4: Traverse City Art Walk
Art, music, wine and food will unite in downtown Traverse City for this bi-annual event, which runs 5-9 p.m. Brys Estate will be among local wineries participating, pouring at The Americana Collection on Front Street.??

Friday, May 4: Ladies of Leelanau Art Exhibit at Circa Estate Winery
Circa Estate Winery will host an opening night gala for its annual Ladies of Leelanau Art Exhibit. Visitors are invited to enjoy wine and hors d'oeuvres as they take in the "stunning works of Leelanau's finest artists." For more information, visit http://www.circawinery.com.?

Saturday, May 5: Fiesta Party & Sangria Release at Round Barn Winery
Round Barn Winery's Baroda tasting room and estate will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with wine, beer and DiVine spirits backed by "festive tunes." The winery also will be releasing its popular sangria. For more information, visit http://www.roundbarnwinery.com.?

Saturday, May 5: Dinner Concert with The Blood Sisters at Lone Oak
Lone Oak Vineyard Estate in Grass Lake will host an evening dinner concert featuring The Blood Sisters, 6-9 p.m. The cost is $30 per person for dinner and the show. For reservations, call (517) 522-8167. For more information, visit http://www.loneoakvineyards.com.

Wednesday, May 9: Morels in May at Black Star Farms
Search for the elusive morel with the assistance of a mushroom-hunting expert during this event at 4 p.m. at Black Star Farms' Suttons Bay location. Visitors also can stick around for a five-course dinner featuring morels and paired with wine, starting at 6 p.m. The cost is $75 per person. For more information, call (231) 944-1251.?

Thursday, May 10: Empty Plate Dinner at The Spartan Club
The Spartan Club, on the fourth floor of Spartan Stadium at Michigan State University in East Lansing, will host its Empty Plate Dinner to benefit the Greater Lansing Food Bank. The event, which begins at 5:30 p.m., includes a casual strolling dinner with food and beverages from local restaurants and caterers; a commemorative "empty plate," painted by children from nearby elementary schools; and live and silent auctions. Tickets are $125 per person. For more information, call (517) 853-7800 or visit http://www.greaterlansingfoodbank.org/events/empty-plate-dinner.html.?

Saturday, May 12: Go Fly a Kite Day at Uncle John's
Uncle John's Fruit House Winery in St. John's will hold this fundraiser to benefit St. John's Splash Park. Wine tasting will be offered noon-6 p.m. Activities, food and more will also be available. For more information, visit http://www.fruithousewinery.com/events.php.

Saturday, May 12-Sunday, May 13: Mother's Day Weekend at Domaine Berrien Cellars
Domaine Berrien Cellars will present the gift of a flower to every mother who visits the tasting room over the weekend. Complimentary appetizers will be available, along with live music and ??of course ? wine sampling. For more information, call (269) 473-WINE or visit http://www.domaineberrien.com.

Sunday, May 13: Mother's Day at Chateau Aeronautique
Chateau Aeronautique in Jackson will host a Mother's Day event featuring wine and cupcakes. For more information, visit http://www.chateauaeronautiquewinery.com.

Thursday, May 17: Red Hot Best Party
Join Traverse magazine as it celebrates the Red Hot Best of Northern Michigan as determined by public voting, including the best red and white wines and best tasting room. The winners will be announced at the 6-9 p.m. event at the Turtle Creek Resort & Hotel, where there will be an entire floor full of food and entertainment. For more information, visit http://community.mynorth.com/events/red-hot-best-bash-with-mynorth-com-traverse-magazine or call (231) 941-8174.

Friday, May 18: Winemaker Dinner at Verterra Winery
Verterra Winery in Leland will hold a private winemaker dinner at 7 p.m., featuring five courses prepared by the Bluebird Restaurant, paired with Verterra wines. The cost is $80 per person, including tax and gratuity. For more information, call (231) 256-2115 or visit http://www.verterrawinery.com.

Saturday, May 19: Gary Detlefs Live at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery
Gary Detlefs will supply musical entertainment ? blues, jazz, swing, ballads, show tunes and rock 'n' roll ??at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.?

Saturday, May 19: Empire Asparagus Fest
Black Star Farms will be among wineries featured at the Empire Asparagus Festival, which, as the name suggests, suggests all things related to the green veggie. Other local wineries, along with restaurants and breweries, will be on site as well, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.empirechamber.com.

Saturday, May 19: Great Lakes Wine Fest
The Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn will host this annual celebration featuring wine and beer tasting, wine and food pairings, special seminars and an opportunity to camp. On-site bottle sales also are available. The event runs noon-9 p.m. The advance admission cost of $25 includes $10 in tasting tickets. Wine and food pairings are an additional $10. Camping is a separate fee. Attendees must be age 21 or older; no children are admitted. For more information, visit http://www.mispeedway.com/Events/Great-Lakes-Wine-Fest.aspx.?

Saturday, May 19-Sunday, May 20: Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula's Blossom Days
The Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula will celebrate the beauty of OMP in the spring with weekend festivities highlighting unreleased wine samplings. The wineries will offer barrel and reserve wines alongside their regular tasting lists. The $30 ticket price includes a souvenir glass (while supplies last) and tasting at all seven wineries. There also will be a non-denominational Blessing of the Blossoms ceremony on Sunday at Chateau Chantal, with the time yet to be determined. Tickets are available at any of the wineries the day of the event. For more information, call (231) 223-4110.?

Tuesday, May 22: Gill's Pier Wine Tasting with Martha's Leelanau Table
Gill's Pier Vineyard & Winery on Leelanau Peninsula is partnering with Martha's Leelanau Table in Suttons Bay for sweet and savory food pairings with Gill's Pier wine, 6:30-8:30 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.gillspier.com or http://www.marthasleelanautable.com.?

Tuesday, May 22: Black Star Farms Winemaker Dinner at Big Fish
Five courses will be paired with Black Star Farms wine during this event at Big Fish in Dearborn. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. For more information, call (313) 336-6350.?

Wednesday, May 23: Black Star Farms Winemaker Dinner at River Crab
Black Star Farms winemaker Lee Lutes will be on hand during this five-course Michigan-themed dinner at River Crab in St. Clair, which will be paired with Black Star Farms wine. To make a reservation, call (810) 329-2261.

Thursday, May 24: Black Star Farms Winemaker Dinner at Gandy Dancer
Five courses will be paired with Black Star Farms wine during this event at the Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. For more information, call (734) 769-0592.

Saturday, May 26: Gill's Pier Anniversary Pig Roast
Gill's Pier Vineyard & Winery on Leelanau Peninsula will hold its annual Swine & Dine in honor of its eight-year anniversary, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The celebration features free food and music, and visitors can sample new release wines and take advantage of special wine deals. No reservations are required. For more information, visit http://www.gillspier.com.?

Saturday, May 26: Beer Garden Grand Opening at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery
Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery will celebrate its Beer Garden grand opening with music by Kevin Nichols, 2-5 p.m. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.?

Saturday, May 26-Sunday, May 27: DiVine Open House Party at Round Barn
Round Barn Winery, Distillery & Brewery in Baroda will offer drink specials on beverages made with their DiVine products, which now includes vodka, rum and bourbon. Food will be available for purchase from Round Barn's cafe. The event is family friendly, and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and sun umbrellas, though coolers and outside food/drinks are not allowed. For more information, visit http://www.roundbarnwinery.com.?

Saturday, May 26-Sunday, May 27: Lemon Creek Winery's Memorial Weekend Wine & Art Fair
During this ninth annual event, Lemon Creek Winery's Berrien Springs location will offer wine tasting along with an exhibit of works from 30 local artists. Offerings range from stained glass, photography and jewelry to sculptures and fine art. For more information, visit http://www.lemoncreekwinery.com.

Sunday, May 27: Sunday Jazz Session at Chateau Chantal
Enjoy a free afternoon of jazz at Chateau Chantal, 3-5:30 p.m. The environment is family-friendly, with lemonade available for kids and wine tasting available for adults. For more information, call (231) 223-4110 or email wine@chateauchantal.com.

Wednesday, May 30: Arcturos Concert at Black Star Farms
Black Star Farms' Suttons Bay location will host a dinner and concert by Chamber Music North. The dinner, which begins at 5:30 p.m., includes three courses prepared by the Inn at Black Star Farms' chefs. The concert follows at 7:30 p.m. A "wine prelude" will precede the concert in the Arcturos Room of the Inn at 6:30 p.m. for those who want to enjoy a glass of wine before the show. Dinner is $30 per person; the concert is an additional $25 per person. For more information or to make a dinner reservation, call (231) 944-1251. To purchase concert tickets, visit http://www.chambermusicnorth.com/arcturos%20concerts.htm.?

Friday, June 15: Divas Uncorked (Tickets on sale April 3)
It's the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula's version of girls' night out, with all seven WOMP wineries offering a wine selection paired with an appetizer whipped up by a Traverse City restaurant chef, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Giveaways from local businesses and artists will be available. The $25 tickets include a souvenir wine glass, tasting and food pairings. "Designated Divas" (a.k.a., designated drivers) can get tickets at a reduced rate. The event sells out, so early ticket purchases are advised. For more information, call (231) 223-7615.?

Ongoing... ?

Weekends in April: New Releases at Sandhill Crane
Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson will release a new wine each weekend to commemorate Michigan Wine Month: 840 port on Saturday, April 7; Chanson on Sunday, April 15; Blushing Crane on Saturday, April 21; and Vidal Blanc on Sunday, April 29.?For more information, visit?http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.?

First Thursday of the Month: Knit & Sip at Sandhill Crane
Sandhill Crane Vineyards in Jackson is offering Knit & Sip nights on the first Thursday of every month, 6-8:30 p.m. Coinciding with the winery's Thirsty Thursday events, the Knit & Sip nights allow knitters, crocheters and spinners to listen to music and order from the caf? if desired while performing their craft in the banquet room, where they can chat as they work. There is no charge for admission. For more information, visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.?

Saturday/Sunday, late May-October: Jammin' in the Vineyard at Round Barn
Round Barn Winery's Baroda tasting room and estate will host live music every Saturday and Sunday, Memorial Day weekend (May 26-27) through October. Lineup TBD. For more information, visit http://www.roundbarnwinery.com.?

Wednesdays throughout April: College Night at Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery
Sleeping Bear Winery & Brewery in Albion is offering $1 off pints or wine by the glass with college ID. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.

Select Fridays and Saturdays: Vineyard Tours at Verterra Winery
Verterra Winery in Leland is offering private tours of its vineyards on select Fridays and Saturdays over the coming months, including May 25-26, June 22-23, July 13-14, July 27-28, Aug. 24-25 and Sept. 21-22. The tours ??led by one of Verterra's owners at the winery's Matheson Estate Vineyard and Swede Estate Vineyard ?? cover topics like training and trellising, rootstock, bud break, grape bloom, version, etc. They start at 10 a.m. in the vineyard and conclude at 11:30 a.m., with a wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres in the Leland tasting room, noon-1 p.m. The minimum group is eight; the maximum is 16. The tour, tasting and appetizers are free with the purchase of four bottles of wine per person in the tasting room at the event's conclusion. For more information, call (231) 256-2115 or visit http://www.verterrawinery.com.

Thursdays: Thirsty Thursdays at Sandhill Crane Vineyards
Sandhill Crane Vineyards is staying open late Thursday nights to host live music at its new caf?/event venue. Music runs 6:30-8:30 p.m., and an expanded caf? menu is available. For more information, visit http://www.sandhillcranevineyards.com.

Fridays: Pasta Dinners at Cascade Winery
Cascade Winery in Grand Rapids is hosting pasta dinners on Friday nights, 5-7 p.m. Visitors can build their own pasta, choosing from various vegetables, meats, noodles and sauces. The cost is $12 for a plate of pasta and the first glass of wine or beer. Additional wine and beer can be purchased by the glass. Reservations are not required. Tables are first come, first served. For more information, call (616) 656-4665.

First Friday of the Month: First Fridays Karaoke at Bad Bear Brewery
Bad Bear Brewery, located at Sleeping Bear Winery in Albion, will host karaoke parties, 6:30-9:30 p.m., on the first Friday of every month. For more information, visit http://www.sleepingbearwinery.com.

Throughout Spring/Summer: Wine Dinners at The Cooks' House
The Cooks' House in Traverse City will host a number of five-course wine dinners in the coming months. Upcoming featured wineries include Brys Estate April 19, Bowers Harbor April 26, Left Foot Charley May 10, Shady Lane Cellars May 17 and Chateau Grand Traverse June 21. Seating is limited to 24 guests. The cost is $80 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For more information, visit http://thecookshouse.net/newsevents. For reservations, call (231) 946-8700.

Weekends in March: Wine & Food Pairing Weekends at Fenn Valley?
Fenn Valley Vineyards & Wine Cellar will offer a sneak peek at upcoming wines plus explore wine and food pairings on weekends throughout the month of March. Seatings are by reservation only, and are available at noon, 12:45 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:15 p.m., 3 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. on Saturdays and 12:30 p.m., 1:15 p.m., 2 p.m. and 2:45 p.m. on Sundays. Walk-ins will be accepted as space permits. Patrons will receive up to 30 percent off of pre-release selections they wish to purchase. For more information, visit?http://www.fennvalley.com.?

Mondays throughout March: Swing into Spring at Sleeping Bear Winery
Learn how to swing dance from Erin Kownacki at Sleeping Bear Winery in Albion with classes running every Monday in March. The cost is $15 per person, per class. Call (734) 545-3825 for more information.

By Appointment: Private Tours/Tastings at 2 Lads Winery
2 Lads staffers will explain the what, where, why and how behind the winemaking process during private tours and tastings of the Old Mission Peninsula facility. Participants can tour the crush pad and get an in-depth look at how wine is made and what sets 2 Lads apart; visit the barrel room and learn about red wines and the aging process; and taste 2 Lads wines paired with a premium food plate in the private gallery. The tour/tasting lasts about an hour and a half and is by appointment only. The cost is $25 per person. For more information, call Caryn at (231) 223-7722.

Fridays: Wine Down Friday at Founders Wine Cellars
Relax and celebrate the end of the week with Wine Down Fridays at Founders Wine Cellars in Baroda. The event runs 5-8 p.m. For more information, visit Founders' Facebook page:?http://www.facebook.com/pages/Founders-Wine-Cellar/333830355636.

Thursdays: Thursday Happy Hour at Left Foot Charley
Get a plate of ethnic food ?prepared by Chef Kristin Karam of K2 Edibles & Events and a glass of Left Foot Charley wine or hard cider for $12 every Thursday, 5-8 p.m., at LFC. (Food also is available for $10 without wine or cider.) A different part of the world is featured weekly; selections have included Mexican, Cuban, Cajun, Indian and Lebanese. Reservations are not required, but plates are limited, and only available while the food lasts. For more information, call (231) 995-0500.

Thursday-Saturday: Matterhorn Grill at TASTES of Black Star Farms
Grill ham, sausage, potatoes, bread, fresh veggies and apples, drizzle them with raclette cheese from Leelanau Cheese Co., and enjoy alongside wine samples ??almost a full bottle ??and you've got yourself a Matterhorn Grill dinner at TASTES of Black Star Farms, located at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City. Dinner for two is $50. Seatings are 6-7:30 p.m. To reserve a table, call (231) 944-1349.

Select dates: Dinner in the Arcturos Dining Room at the Inn at Black Star Farms
Enjoy dinner in the elegant Arcturos dining room at the Inn on Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay. The Inn chef embraces a philosophy of cooking with meats, herbs, vegetables and fruits grown/raised on the farm at Black Star or from other Michigan farms located within a 100-mile radius. An assortment of in-house-prepared decadent desserts also is available, and Black Star Farms wine is available by the glass or the bottle. Seating is limited; reservations are required. Dinners begin at 6:30 p.m. Call (231) 944-1251. For a list of upcoming dates, visit http://www.blackstarfarms.com/inn/event-calendar.

Thursdays: Thirsty Thursdays at Cascade Winery
Get $1 off glasses of wine and draft beers at Cascade Winery each Thursday, 4-7 p.m. For more information, call (616) 656-4665.

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