Back by popular demand, it's Michigan Wine Lover of the Week! Today, meet Bob McGovern. This Grosse Pointe Woods resident not only enjoys frequenting Michigan vineyards, but can technically count himself among them, thanks to the six producing vines growing in his backyard! He does his part to spread the Michigan wine love by taking a dozen bottles along each time he visits his in-laws in Cape Cod, Mass. (and they, of course, have become fans themselves). Without further ado, we introduce you to Bob!
What was the first Michigan wine you ever drank?
"(At) St. Julian's tasting center in Paw Paw back in 1990, it was their Chambourcin — awesome vino."
What was the first Michigan winery you ever visited?
"Chateau Grand Traverse, when I lived in Traverse City in the mid-'80s. I fell in love with the ambiance and scenery. It was the first time that I understood terroir."
What's your favorite Michigan wine?
"I like the Black Star Farms Pinot Noir. It's a perfect Michigan wine — shows off body, style — and I prefer reds over whites."
What's your favorite Michigan winery?
"This is a tough one; there are so many excellent vineyards. But if I had to pick one, it would be Black Star Farms in Leelanau. It has a great selection of very good wines, the tasting room is open, warm and approachable, and the vineyards are awe inspiring to view and walk through. Very helpful staff as well."
Is there a particular wine trail you enjoy visiting?
"As I live in southeastern Michigan, I am very fond of the SE Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail. It is very easy to drive and the scenery is excellent. The vineyards are mostly young, but very interesting in their uniqueness. The owners are very proud of their work and eager to show you around. My wife and I enjoy driving this route in the late summer and fall especially."
Have you ever attended a Michigan wine event?
"Yes, the summer and fall drives in the TC area and SE Michigan Pioneer Trail. All very beautiful and the wines are excellent."
What's the most surprising Michigan wine you've tried?
"It was a rosé from the Threefold Vine Winery on the Garden Peninsula in the UP. I travel the state extensively and knew that the Garden Peninsula was on the same limestone shelf as Niagara, etc., and wanted to see what their wines were like. They were very good and I have the deepest admiration for the family that owns this vineyard."
When you're not drinking Michigan wine, what are you drinking?
"I prefer the estate-bottled reds and my wife enjoys the estate-bottled whites."
About the photo ...
"The attached picture was taken in my backyard by my Concord grape arbor, drinking a nice Michigan Pinot Noir."
Interested in being the MBTB Michigan Wine Lover of the Week? E-mail us and request a questionnaire!
