Mari Vineyards

Imagine a slice of sunny Italy, magically transported to the shores of Lake Michigan. This is exactly the impression made by Mari Vineyards — one of the most striking architectural and gastronomic gems of Traverse City. Located on the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula, it attracts travelers not only with its exquisite drinks but also with its magnificent Mediterranean-style building.

This destination in the USA is famous for its unique approach to winemaking, harmoniously combining ancient traditions with modern technology. The vineyards spread across gentle hills, where the cool lake breeze creates ideal conditions for ripening both classic and rare grape varieties. With a 4.5-star rating, the winery is rightfully considered a must-visit for any connoisseur of quality leisure.

Visitors are in for more than just a tasting; it's a complete aesthetic adventure. The interiors, reminiscent of old villas, panoramic views of the water, and a welcoming atmosphere make Mari Vineyards the perfect spot to discover the agricultural wealth and cultural flavor of Northern Michigan.

To contact the winery or inquire about private events, you can use the following contact details. It is recommended to check availability for tastings in advance during the high season.

The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the wine tasting. Guests are offered a wide selection: from bold reds like Marechal Foch and Pinot Noir to refreshing whites and sparkling Chardonnay. You can pair your drinks with exquisite sets of local cheeses and appetizers that perfectly complement each variety's bouquet.

For those who want to take a look behind the scenes of production, fascinating tours are available. You can walk between the rows of vines, see the facilities where the magic of turning berries into wine happens, and learn the secrets of aging in oak barrels. This is a great chance to hear stories about how the characteristics of the local soil influence the flavor of the final product.

Don't forget to take some time to relax outdoors. The winery features cozy picnic areas with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Seasonal events are often held here: from intimate open-air concerts to autumn harvest festivals. Before leaving, be sure to stop by the signature shop to purchase a bottle of your favorite wine or unique souvenirs to remember your trip.

Reaching this picturesque corner of the Old Mission Peninsula is easy if you are staying in the city center. The drive from downtown takes only about 20 minutes along the scenic Center Road (Highway M-37 N), which runs along the coast.

For those arriving from other regions via Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), the journey is approximately 25 kilometers. The best option is a car rental or a taxi, as public transportation in this area is limited and does not provide direct access to the peninsula's wineries.

Parking at Mari Vineyards is spacious and free for visitors. In the warmer months, outdoor enthusiasts might consider a bike ride—the routes around the peninsula are very popular thanks to the stunning views of Lake Michigan.

The history of this place began in 1999, when Mario Cecchini, an Italian immigrant, decided to realize his dream of creating a wine that would remind him of his homeland. He chose the Old Mission Peninsula for a reason: the unique microclimate formed by the proximity of the deep waters of Lake Michigan creates conditions similar to the foothills of the Alps, which is ideal for certain grape varieties.

In the early 2000s, the winery became an experimental site for implementing sustainable farming practices. Mario and his family sought not just to produce alcohol, but to adapt classic European varieties to northern Michigan conditions. This led to the creation of unique hybrids that eventually earned the estate many prestigious awards at international competitions.

The construction of the modern Mediterranean-style winery building was a significant milestone in the region's history. It symbolizes the revival of winemaking traditions that were interrupted in the USA during Prohibition. Today, Mari Vineyards is considered one of the pillars of modern American winemaking, blending Italian passion with local innovation.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and the taste of the local drinks, most guests need between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is enough time to enjoy a tasting flight, peek into the cellars, and take memorable photos against the backdrop of the vineyards.

If you are planning a full guided tour, which includes a detailed story about production, or if you want to have a leisurely picnic on the outdoor terrace overlooking the bay, it is worth setting aside about 3-4 hours. This format allows you to truly relax and feel the rural charm of this place.

Mari Vineyards welcomes guests daily, providing the opportunity to enjoy the views and tastings both on weekdays and weekends. Please note a slight reduction in operating hours on Sunday.

Working Hours:

• Monday — Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Old Mission Peninsula is famous not only for its wines but also for many other interesting sites that can be visited in one trip. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to better experience the atmosphere of Michigan and enjoy its natural and historical wealth.