There’s a tangible buzz about Northern Michigan wine, and, no, this is not the buzz that comes from one too many glasses of Northern Michigan riesling. A new series that spotlights several wineries or Traverse City and Leelanau County called “Wine Warriors” is currently being pitched to major networks.
Chateau Chantal, Good Harbor Vineyards and Chateau de Leelanau are the three Northern Michigan wineries featured on the show, with commentary provided by Larry Mawby, the proprietor of L. Mawby Vineyard. The show highlights the daily drama that occurs at these wineries, and the stressful situations that come along with dealing with customers, sales, and Michigan’s unpredictable weather.
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According to Wine Warriors producer Gerry Vendittelli, an agent is currently pitching Wine Warriors to major national cable stations for primetime spots. Vendittelli hopes to hear news of when the show will be on air in the near future.
In the meantime, there are many fun, wine-filled ways to get behind-the-scenes access to the show before it airs. This summer, Wine Warriors is promoting their show with merchandise and many cool events that will give you an exclusive view into the wild ride that is running a winery.
On Thursday, June 12th, at 6 pm check out the local launch event at the mystical Grand Traverse Commons. Not only will you have the opportunity to celebrate with the stars of the show, but you’ll also have the opportunity to buy wine created exclusively by the show’s featured vineyards. Get your fill of Northern Michigan music & art with the Matthew Mansfield Band and art pieces from a dozen local artists. The event will offer you the chance to sample their exclusive wines and munch on appetizers from top local restaurants such as PepeNero, Bay Town Kitchen, Pleasanton Bakery, Boss Mouse Cheese and Idyll Farms. Tickets to the launch event are available at MyNorthTickets.com.
If you want to get even closer to the action, there are Wine Warrior (you guessed it!) wine tours this summer. Running every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from June 13th to August 22nd, you’ll be shuttled to the four wineries featured in the show. Sip on the show’s exclusive wine and take in the breathtaking views of Northern Michigan’s wine country.
While we unfortunately won’t get to see the Wine Warriors show on air this summer, there are many cool opportunities to interact with the show’s stars and experience the beautiful Northern Michigan outdoors while you sip on some of the area’s best wines.