While you can’t judge a book by its cover, you can definitely judge these Northern Michigan wines by their labels! Creativity reigns in wine country with these witty names.
Backroads | Seasons of the North Winery
This sweet rosé is made from grape varietals that many Indian River locals find in their backyards: concord and valient, as well as others. It was named as a tribute to Seasons of the North’s hometown for its consistent support.
Sex | MAWBY
When tasting room staff members say, “Have you tried sex yet?” a moment of confusion is followed by a burst of laughter when a bottle of dry rosé labeled with the name “Sex” is presented to taste. Larry Mawby tells us the funny backstory in the video below.
Detention | Peninsula Cellars
It’s “back to school” with this sweet Michigan red wine! From the old school house turned winery comes a wine that is bound to be trouble. After each glass, you must write “I will only drink Michigan wine” on the chalkboard 100 times.
Fandango | 45 North
With notes of peaches, raspberries, cranberries, strawberries, the hint of oakey barrel on the palate lets the fruit dance a playful Fandango!
2018 Winston | Bowers Harbor Vineyards
If you know Bowers Harbor, you know the relaxed, welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere. Naturally, it’s reflected on their labels! Winston is named after a beloved BHV pup, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Cherryland Humane Society.
Photo courtesy of Bowers Harbor Vineyards
2017 Ragaire Rosé | Rove Estate
You’ve heard of “Rosé All Day” but at Rove Estate, it’s “Rosé All Night.” Ragaire is Gaelic for someone who enjoys late-night wandering or sitting up talking long into the wee hours.
Naughty & Nice | Chateau Chantal
Play by the rules or throw caution to the wind: Chateau Chantal has a red wine for each swing of your mood. The founding winemaker of Chateau Chantal, Mark Johnson, created Naughty—a red wine so naughty you can cross the traditional wine pairing borders and serve it with fish. From there, Nice was added to provide a touch of sweetness.
2017 Murmur | Left Foot Charley
Murmuration refers to the phenomenon that results when hundreds, sometimes thousands, of starlings fly in swooping, intricately coordinated patterns through the sky. The wine label tells the story, “Murmur is named for some of our voracious vineyard foes, the Starlings. Swooping and diving above a vineyard, they are beautiful. When they work together, they can wipe out a vineyard in a matter of hours.”
Photo courtesy of Left Foot Charley