Black Star Farms

Why Black Star Farms?

Take what you know about a typical winery visit—the quick stop for a tasting before continuing on your way to the next destination—and throw it out the window. At the main Black Star Farms location in Suttons Bay, you’ll find a destination worth your time. This is a place you can make a day of, appealing to multiple facets of the booming agri-tourism and culinary-tourism movement.

Everywhere you turn, there is something new and memorable to explore and experience. Start at the main tasting room, housed in a unique post-and-beam building with an elliptical bar.

There, you’ll sample wines that are among the best in Michigan, and beyond. Black Star Farms wines have even been enjoyed at the White House by two different presidents. And at a recent international competition in Australia, against 500 different wines from 7 countries, Black Star Farm’s Dry Riesling won an elite gold medal.

The victory was a nod to the skill and hard work of celebrated winemaker and distiller Lee Lutes, as well as the special grape-growing climate here. Lee—who has a special place in his heart for Riesling and Pinot Noir—strives to produce wines that are uniquely Northern. Unlike the so-called “fruit bombs” made at many California wineries, that tend to overpower meals, Black Star Farms wines are known for being exceptionally food friendly, for example the Arcturos Sur Lie Chardonnay and Arcturos Pinot Noir.

When you get hungry, pop into the Hearth & Vine Café across from the tasting room. The menu is a locavore’s dream and also features Black Star Farms’ wines, ciders and an extensive list of craft cocktails. And the space also houses a branch of the Grand Traverse Distillery. Famed New York City chef Mario Batali has been spotted dining here on more than one occasion in the summer.

Next, burn off some calories by exploring the on-property trail system that circles this stunning bucolic destination. Then return to the new, seasonal outdoor Terrace bar for a wine flight, while enjoying views of the property. It’s just another way to spend some time making memories, rather than rushing. Plus, kids will love walking around and viewing the farm animals, including nearly a dozen horses that board and train at Black Star Farms.

As if this winery didn’t already have it all, it offers two other unique locations to experience. One is TASTES of Black Star Farms, an urban tasting bar nestled at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. There, try the decadent fondú made with white wine and cherry brandy, and of course the local Leelanau Cheese Raclette, which was named “Best in Show” at the 2007 American Cheese Society Awards. Or don’t miss the epic weekend bloody mary and mimosa bar, especially on Saturdays during the indoor farmers market, which spans the hallways outside TASTES. (Locals also find a sense of community here, especially during the long winter months, at euchre nights or the “Liquor & Literature” book club.)

Lastly, don’t miss Black Star Farms’ winery and tasting room located on Old Mission Peninsula. The exquisite, massive wooden bar is a sight to behold. Pick up a special bottle of fruit brandy or the unique, port-style Sirius Maple Dessert Wine. And further proof of always being on the forefront, Black Star Farms’ Hard Apple Cider preceded Michigan’s cider craze by 10 years.

So whichever location you visit, trust that Black Star Farms does it all, and does it well.

What you have to try:

Don’t miss the Matterhorn Grill meals at the TASTES location. It’s the ultimate comfort food, featuring meats, potatoes, vegetables and bread prepared on a table-top grill, naturally served with a glass of Black Star Farms wine. Consider Be Dazzled, a sparkling white wine with fresh, crisp fruit flavors and a dry finish.

What’s up Michigan favorite:

Treat yourself to some A Capella ice wine, considered one of the rarest wines in the world, and made possible under only the most specific weather conditions. And the perfect gift for any vinophile is a membership to the Wine Club. It comes with 2 or 4 bottles of Black Star Farms wine shipped to you four times a year, plus access to the Barrel Room, a plush, private tasting room at the Suttons Bay location. The space, with its separate, secluded bar, offers a respite to people who don’t want to deal with the peak-season crowds at the main tasting bar. Consider this membership the ultimate line jumper!