The Ultimate Guide to Old Mission Peninsula: Wineries, Culinary Delights, and Breathtaking Views in Traverse City

Nestled just north of Traverse City, Michigan, the Old Mission Peninsula is a true gem, offering a delightful escape into a world of exquisite wines, charming local businesses, and unparalleled natural beauty. During a recent vacation to Traverse City, we dedicated an entire day to exploring this captivating region, and it quickly became a highlight of our trip. From rolling vineyards to historic lighthouses, quaint boutiques, cozy B&Bs, and antique shops, the peninsula boasts a rich tapestry of experiences. What truly sets it apart, however, are the stunning, panoramic views that greet you at every turn, especially overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay.

Embark on a Culinary & Wine Journey: Discovering Old Mission Peninsula’s Best

Our day on Old Mission Peninsula was largely dedicated to a delightful winery-hopping adventure. As an ardent admirer of fine wine, I can confidently say that Traverse City’s wine region, particularly Old Mission Peninsula, offers some truly exceptional varietals. This narrow finger of land, stretching into Lake Michigan, is home to over seven distinctive wineries, each with its own unique charm, ambiance, and approach to winemaking. Getting to know each one’s story and savoring their offerings is an experience in itself.

Black Star Farms: A Dual-Location Delight for Wine & Food Enthusiasts

Our first stop led us to Black Star Farms, a name synonymous with quality in Michigan’s wine country. Interestingly, Black Star Farms operates two distinct locations, and we made sure to visit both to fully appreciate their diverse offerings. The allure of their Leelanau Peninsula location, specifically its restaurant, Hearth and Vine, was irresistible after hearing culinary legend Mario Batali sing its praises. It truly lived up to the hype.

Hearth and Vine: A Farm-to-Table Experience on Leelanau Peninsula

Upon arriving at the Leelanau Peninsula location, we discovered Hearth and Vine, an unassuming yet incredibly inviting café situated on a working farm. Its charm lies in its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a testament to the region’s agricultural bounty, featuring delightful farm finds like house-pickled vegetables and tender leeks. Paired with Black Star Farms’ excellent wines, the culinary experience here is both authentic and memorable. My husband and I opted to share two dishes that immediately caught our eye: the fresh Caprese salad and a truly unique potato pizza. The pizza, crafted with Yukon potatoes, rich Leelanau cheese raclette and fromage blanc, roasted garlic oil, fresh arugula, and a hint of black pepper, was a revelation. Its innovative combination of flavors was simply divine.

If those descriptions don’t make your mouth water, I’m not sure what will! My husband, a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, initially expressed some skepticism about a potato pizza. However, observing him eagerly reach for second and third slices confirmed that this unconventional pizza was every bit as spectacular as I had initially thought. It was a culinary masterpiece that truly showcased the freshness and quality of the local ingredients.

Black Star Farms Tasting Room: Sampling Excellence on Old Mission Peninsula

Having indulged in the culinary delights, we then made our way to Black Star Farms’ other location, conveniently situated on Old Mission Peninsula itself. This establishment houses a beautiful, elegant tasting room where visitors can enjoy five distinct wine tastes for just $5. Black Star Farms consistently produces a solid range of wines, but I was particularly captivated by their 2011 Pinot Noir. The winery accurately describes it as featuring “bright cherry and hints of cedar on the palate with a cocoa and light vanilla nose”—a perfectly spot-on assessment. It was so exceptionally good that, after a momentary lapse of coordination (and I promise, I hadn’t had that much wine yet!), I accidentally dropped the bottle we had purchased. Such was my fondness for this particular vintage that we made a special trip back before leaving the area to secure another bottle. It’s a testament to the wine’s quality and the memorable experience it offered.

Peninsula Cellars: A Historic Schoolhouse with Charming Wines

Our next destination was Peninsula Cellars, a truly unique winery housed within a meticulously preserved 1896 historic schoolhouse. The ambiance is incredibly charming, offering a quaint and nostalgic setting for wine tasting. Their wines themselves reflect this playful spirit, bearing whimsical names like “Detention” and “Homework,” which add a fun twist to the tasting experience. One of the most appealing aspects of Peninsula Cellars is their generous offering of six free tastings—a rare find these days, and certainly a welcome surprise for any budget-conscious traveler. While perhaps not as opulent as some other establishments, Peninsula Cellars delivers consistently decent wines, and their staff are consistently friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights into their craft. It’s a place where history, charm, and good wine converge beautifully.

Chateau Chantal: Where Panoramic Views Elevate the Wine Experience

Following our visit to Peninsula Cellars, we made our way to Chateau Chantal, a winery that, for me, stands out for its absolutely breathtaking views alone. Perched majestically atop a ridge, Chateau Chantal offers sweeping, unobstructed vistas of Grand Traverse Bay and the surrounding vineyards. It’s a truly iconic spot on Old Mission Peninsula. We opted to forgo a full tasting, instead choosing to simply relax with a glass of their superb Chardonnay, a personal favorite, and soak in the magnificent scenery from their outdoor seating area. The combination of a crisp, delightful wine and such a stunning backdrop creates an unforgettable moment of serenity and beauty.

Our tranquil moment was, alas, gently interrupted when our one-year-old son, Will, woke up a mere 15 minutes into his nap. But honestly, even those fleeting 15 minutes of uninterrupted enjoyment felt like a precious gift amidst our family travels!

2 Lads Winery: Modern Design Meets Michigan’s Signature Wines

The final stop on our wine-hopping tour was 2 Lads Winery, which happens to be my husband’s absolute favorite on the peninsula. This winery distinguishes itself with its strikingly modern architecture and design, a refreshing contrast to some of the more traditional establishments. Its contemporary aesthetic is perfectly complemented by yet another fabulous view of the bay and vineyards, creating an elevated and sophisticated tasting experience. 2 Lads is renowned for producing some truly great wines, including one particular varietal we consistently purchase: their Cabernet Franc. This wine is exceptionally well-regarded and a known specialty among Michigan wineries, showcasing the region’s capability to produce world-class red wines. The clean lines, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent wines make 2 Lads a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.

Beyond the Grapes: Exploring Old Mission Peninsula’s Other Treasures

After indulging in the rich world of Old Mission Peninsula wineries, we decided to explore some of the other fantastic attractions the peninsula has to offer, proving there’s more to this region than just exquisite wine.

Mission Point Lighthouse: A Historic Beacon on Lake Michigan

Our journey continued all the way to the very tip of the peninsula, leading us to the historic Mission Point Lighthouse. This picturesque lighthouse, standing proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan, is truly a sight to behold. Its classic charm against the vast expanse of the lake creates an incredibly serene and beautiful setting. While photographs, including the ones I’ve captured, barely do justice to its majestic presence and the tranquil beauty of its surroundings, they offer a glimpse into this iconic landmark. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views and a sense of timeless history.

Even my son, Will, tucked comfortably in his baby carrier, seemed to be enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful views of Lake Michigan!

The Jolly Pumpkin & Mission Table: Craft Beer and Fine Dining Delights

On our return journey from the lighthouse, we serendipitously discovered The Jolly Pumpkin, a renowned establishment offering craft beer tastings. After our extensive wine-tasting adventures, we welcomed the change of pace and decided to mix things up with some local brews. The Jolly Pumpkin did not disappoint, featuring an impressive selection of craft beers, including a particularly excellent pale ale that stood out. Adjacent to The Jolly Pumpkin is the Mission Table restaurant, a place I had heard rave reviews about but hadn’t yet had the chance to try. After catching a glimpse of its beautifully rustic yet sophisticated setup and perusing its even more enticing menu, I’m convinced we absolutely need to dine here on our next visit. The ambiance and culinary promise are simply irresistible.

Plan Your Perfect Old Mission Peninsula Escape

This journey offers just a quick snapshot of the incredible diversity and charm of Old Mission Peninsula. It’s a destination that truly caters to all senses, whether you’re a devoted wine connoisseur, a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie. We wholeheartedly encourage you to plan a trip to this magnificent part of Traverse City. Take your time to explore its world-class wineries, discover its quaint shops, savor its farm-to-table cuisine, and simply immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. You will undoubtedly be captivated and, like us, fall in love with its unique allure. Prepare to be delighted; you will not be disappointed by the rich array of experiences Old Mission Peninsula has to offer!

You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of some local wildlife, adding another layer of charm to your adventure: