Wineries in the Upper Peninsula’s Escanaba 

If it's a vino experience you’re seeking, put Italy, Napa Valley and the Finger Lakes region to the side. Have you tasted Michigan-made wine in the Bays de Noc region? Visit these wineries in the Upper Peninsula’s Escanaba and see for yourself why the Midwest has a stake in the winemaking industry!

Northern Sun Winery

Located in Bark River, this vineyard and winery is a hidden gem in the Upper Peninsula! Sip on award-winning wines while relaxing by the grounds they were grown on. Northern Sun Winery’s warm hospitality and beautiful atmosphere are reminiscent of a European vacation. 

Co-owner Dave Anthony started growing grapes over 10 years ago. He spent a lot of time looking for just the right grape varieties to grow in the local soil and climate. Dave believes that the fruit produced by these new grape varieties will continue to put The Bays on the map as a wine growing region. Anthony Vineyards makes up over 3.5 acres with about 3,000 vines total!

When you visit, make sure to ask for some ice wine. Wineries all over try to replicate this delicacy, none of them taste quite like theirs! This small Bark River vineyard has been collecting medals from all over the country for its wine — come see why today.

Take me to Northern Sun Winery!

Leigh’s Garden Winery

Situated in the Historic District of Old Escanaba, Leigh’s Garden Winery first opened in 2008 with only five wines. Today it has over 25 wines each year! All wines start with cold climate grapes or local fruit. These grapes come from partner vineyards in the U.P., downstate and Wisconsin. Leigh’s has red, white and rosé wines, but you won’t find a Cabernet, Merlot or Chardonnay. Instead, you will find Marquette, Frontenac, Brianna, Edelweiss and many other regional grapes.

Most people are surprised to know that Leigh’s makes all their wines on site. They take whole clusters of grapes and process them into high-quality wine right downstairs in the cellar. The vintners have 60 recipes to pull from. Talk about a taste of the U.P.!

Their tasting room is worth visiting for the vintage decor itself. Housed in a building built in 1893, it features an older refurbished bar and back bar done in art deco style. The walls and ceilings are intricately designed tin dating back to 1895. 

Leigh’s is open seasonally. Stop in for a wine tasting, a glass or two or to purchase a bottle of unique Michigan flavor! 

Read more about Leigh’s Garden Winery and their new owners in this blog.

Take me to Leigh’s Garden Winery!