Our Vineyards
Everything starts in the vineyard. Our vines sit on the hills of Leelanau Peninsula, where cool breezes and sandy soils create the perfect environment for growing vibrant, expressive fruit. With careful attention and a commitment to the land, we nurture each vintage from the ground up—so what ends up in your glass truly tells the story of where it came from.
Planted in Purpose
Our estate is composed of carefully managed vineyard blocks, home to 13 varietals that each play a role in shaping the style and complexity of our wines.
It all began in 1989 with just 7 acres planted to Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Vignoles. These varietals were chosen for their ability to thrive in Northern Michigan and their natural fit for sparkling wine production. From the very beginning, Initially, vision was to establish Shady Lane Cellars as a sparkling house.
After that initial planting, the vineyards remained unchanged until 2002, when an additional 12 acres were planted, primarily Riesling and Vignoles. Over the years, smaller plantings continued to shape the estate, with another significant expansion in 2008 adding 14 acres.
Our most recent chapter came in 2022 with four acres of Pinot Gris and Blaufränkisch. These are the vines you’ll see just beyond the parking lot near our warehouse, a daily reminder that our vineyards are always evolving.
From legacy vines to new plantings, each block reflects our commitment to growing exceptional cool-climate fruit and continuously refining what Northern Michigan wine can be.
Sustainability in Practice
Shady Lane has been SIP Certified since 2020, a testament to the work led by our Vineyard Manager, Andy, whose commitment to caring for the land drives everything we do.
SIP (Sustainability in Practice) Certified is a rigorous, third-party verified program that holds vineyards and wineries accountable to measurable, science-based standards. From soil health and water conservation to energy use and social responsibility, it’s a holistic approach built around the three pillars of sustainability: people, planet, and prosperity.
From Grape to Glass
Great wine doesn’t start in the cellar, it starts in the vineyard. Every decision we make in the field, from pruning to harvest, is done with intention and care, because we believe that thoughtful farming is the foundation of exceptional wine.
By focusing on meticulous, hands-on vineyard practices, we’re able to guide the fruit to its fullest potential, capturing balance, purity, and a true sense of place. It’s this connection to the land that allows our wines to reflect not only the character of each vintage, but also our vision for what Michigan wine can be.
