Wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, voted No. 2 Best Wine Region in the nation by USA Today, are well-known for riesling and other cool-climate white varietals, but the area’s award-winning reds are often overlooked. So, all month long, Leelanau County vintners at more than 20 participating wineries are showcasing their best red wines, including big and bold merlots, aromatic and spicy pinot noirs and more during the annual Hunt for the Reds of October event.

Tickets are $25 per person and include a souvenir wine glass. Your ticket gets you a complimentary pour at each of the participating wineries on weekdays throughout the month (Monday–Friday). After your featured wine tasting, standard tasting fees apply. Proceeds from the event benefit the American Red Cross of Northern Michigan.

Tickets and glasses are available to be picked up at whichever winery you choose to begin at. This is not assigned, but each winery will have the supplies needed, simply provide proof of your ticket purchase and your adventure will begin there.

Due to COVID-19 and the current environment in which Northern Michigan wineries are required to operate, event organizers ask that you reference each individual winery’s website you plan to visit or call in advance to ensure clarity about the protocols and procedures to visit. Many wineries along the trail at this time offer or require reservations as well as have restrictions on group size. This ticket does not relinquish you from those requirements.

2020 Participating Wineries

Sleeping Bear Loop

Amoritas // 2017 Beak & Talon

Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery // Bel Lago Red

Boathouse Vineyards // 2016 Merlot

Chateau Fontaine // Woodland Red

French Valley Vineyards // 2012 Pinot Noir

Good Harbor Vineyards // Guest Selective

Laurentide Winery // 2018 Meritage Reserve

Northern Loop

45 North Vineyard & Winery // TBD

Aurora Cellars // Guest Selective

Green Bird Organic Cellars & Farm // Pinot Noir

Leelanau Cellars // 2016 Merlot

Silver Leaf Vineyard & Winery // Guest Selective

Verterra Winery // 2018 Chaos Read

Grand Traverse Bay Loop

Black Star Farms // 2016 Arcturos Merlot

bigLITTLE // Underdog Gmamy Noir

Brengman Brothers // TBD

Ciccone Vineyard & Winery // 17 Lee La Tage

Mawby // Redd

Rove Estate // 2017 Pinot Noir

Shady Lane Cellars // 2016 Merlot

Willow Vineyards // 2018 Pinot Noir

For more information, contact the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail via email or call 231.642.5550.