The state in the Midwest with the capital Lansing is one of the most important wine-growing states or centres of the USA in terms of volume, alongside California, New York, Oregon and Washington. It is the only state bordering on four of the great lakes, namely Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior and Lake Erie, which is why it was rightly given the nickname "Great Lakes State". There are almost 5,000 hectares of vineyards, which are very positively influenced by the heat-retaining giant lakes. The four areas Fennville, Lake Michigan Shore, Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula are classified as AVA. The main focus of viticulture is on the two peninsulas near Traverse City and around Benton Harbor in Barrier County. The most famous American vine, Concord, dominates, but mainly grape juice is produced from it. Wine is mainly made from the European varieties Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Riesling, but also traditionally from hybrids. Of the more than 30 production companies, the most famous are Château Chantal, Château Grand Traverse, Fenn Valley, Good Harbour, St. Juliean and Tabor Hill. Large quantities of sparkling wine and fruit wine are also produced.
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Sigi Hiss
freier Autor und Weinberater (Fine, Vinum u.a.), Bad Krozingen