Suttons Bay, MI (Nov. 4, 2024) – Shady Lane Cellars has launched its highly anticipated Great Lakes Wine Series, a collection of wines that pays tribute to the stunning landscapes of Northern Michigan. Executive Winemaker Kasey Wierzba and Assistant Winemaker Maddie McCandless, known for their commitment to sustainable winemaking, have crafted this series to capture the region’s adventurous spirit, majestic forests, and the awe-inspiring views of Lake Michigan at sunset.
“We’ve always wanted to create a Michigan-inspired wine series,” said Wierzba. “This collection is a tribute to the beautiful region we live in, shaped by lakes, forests, and the adventurous people who call it home.”
McCandless, who designed the original labels, brought the vision to life through vibrant artwork that reflects the essence of Northern Michigan’s natural beauty. The Great Lakes Wine Series includes three limited-edition wines that embody the unique characteristics of the region.
The Wines
2023 Pathfinder Pét-Nat – This sparkling wine, made from a blend of Muscat and Vignoles, captures the bright, lively flavors of tropical fruits such as guava and pineapple. Described by Wierzba as a “farmer’s Champagne,” the Pét-Nat is made using an ancestral method that predates traditional Champagne, where the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle. It pairs well with creamy risotto or pasta dishes.
2023 Golden Hour – A Pinot Gris-based wine made using a cold soak process, where the grapes are left in the press for 12 hours to allow the skins to infuse the juice with deeper flavors. The result is a wine with aromas of wild strawberries, field flowers, and melon, evoking the magical moments just before sunset. This wine pairs perfectly with dishes like brown sugar-glazed salmon, lemon herb chicken, or Indian curry.
2022 Hartwick Red – A blend of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc, this red wine is named after the nearby Hartwick Pines State Park. Aged for 20 months in neutral French oak, it offers rich fruit flavors and earthy undertones, reminiscent of old-world wines. Notes of dried cherry, espresso, and earthy truffle make this a perfect companion to a hearty steak.
The limited-edition Great Lakes Wine Series is available for purchase now in the Shady Lane Cellars tasting room and is an ideal gift for those who appreciate Michigan’s beauty and wines.
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