Episode 137 features Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor, joining me for the first installment of a four part series on vineyard care through the seasons. Today we explore winter, the critical pruning season that sets the tone for the entire year. We also highlight Mike’s work at Lake Michigan College and point listeners to Episode 64 for his background and story. Learn more about MSU’s work at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and explore the wine program at lakemichigancollege.edu/wine.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

This episode features a summer conversation with Ben Guerrin, recorded during his time as Vineyard Manager at Modales. We explore organic certification, the responsibilities of a vineyard manager, the challenges that define each season, and the collaborative relationship between vineyard and winery. Ben now serves as Agronomy Sales, Account Relationship Manager for Keystone Co-op, supporting grape growers across Michigan with crop protection, fertility solutions, disease control, and nutrition. Contact Ben at [email protected] or 616-239-5607. Learn more about Modales at modaleswines.com.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Many listeners have asked me to share my story, and this episode brings it forward. I also explain what is ahead while my wife and I travel abroad. I have prepared a full arc of episodes that will continue each week. We begin with my own story, then move into the vineyard with its pulse and the seasons. From there we explore the varieties that define Michigan wine, including red grapes, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Ice Wines and other cool climate strengths. We also hear from voices who carry forward soil, soul and regional heritage, and close with a look at marketing and industry. These episodes are designed to keep the conversation moving and to offer a deeper look at Michigan wine. Visit ifvinescouldtalk.com or contact me at [email protected]. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, I sit down once again with Tim Godfrey, now serving as Program Director for Agriculture, Culinary Management, and Wine and Viticulture at Lake Michigan College. Tim brings insight, humor, and honesty as we explore the challenges of winemaking. We also discuss the winemaking program at Lake Michigan College, why it is worth exploring, and take a detailed look at sulfites. Learn more at lakemichiganvintners.com and lakemichigancollege.edu/wine or contact Tim at [email protected].

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Join me for Episode 133 as I visit with Folklor, a remarkable farm and winery in Charlevoix owned by Izabela Babinska and Derrick Vogel. I walked the farm with Iza in October, tasted several of their excellent wines with Derrick a few days later, and then sat down with both of them for a fun interview in late November. They are a delightful couple whose work reflects deep care for the land and a commitment to sustainable agriculture. During my visit, they were in the middle of their organic certification process, which they have now completed. Learn more at folklorwinecider.com

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Tony Jacobson walks through his journey from Sleepy Creek in Illinois, to ten years in Traverse City, to his work with Mawby, and finally to launching Loose Cannon. Tony also leads the P.45 Wines and Vines group, a collaborative space for growers and winemakers. Learn more at loosecannon.wine or reach Tony at [email protected]. Follow on Instagram at loosecannon.wine or tonymakeswine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 131 features Chalet Sturgeon in Pouring Premium. We explore the February event with Domaine Berrien and Watermark Brewing, and highlight the Local Pour experience with conversations across Michigan wineries. For inquiries, contact [email protected] or call 269-405-1262.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 130 features Kristy McClellan, a true Michigan Wine Advocate. From her early start at Brittany's Oyster Bar in Charlevoix to her years at Argonne Supper Club and Tapa Wingo, Kristy built her foundation in hospitality before studying at Michigan State University. Her career took her to J. Alexander, where she became Wine Buyer in Denver, and then to 12 years at Bower’s Harbor. Today she owns Lake District Wine in Traverse City, a shop dedicated to small producers, and serves as Director of Sales at Left Foot Charley since 2020. Learn more at lakedistrictwine.com or reach Kristy at [email protected], [email protected], or 231-620-1170.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

This episode takes you inside Up North, a wine tasting room in Geneva, Illinois, dedicated to showcasing northern Michigan wines. We feature 14 remarkable producers: Big Little Wines, Black Star Farms, Bonobo, Blustone, Left Foot Charley, Bel Lago Vineyard, French Valley Vineyard, Mawby, Shady Lane Cellars, Verterra, Brys Estate, BOS Wines, and Mari Vineyards. Discover more at upnorthwinegeneva.com, reach out at [email protected], and follow Instagram @upnorthwinetasting.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

From Missouri roots to Michigan vineyards, Chaz Judy brings a unique perspective shaped by culinary school, a strong sense of smell, and years of experience at Pyrtle Winery. At Petoskey Farms, he helps run the winery more like a restaurant, blending hospitality with winemaking. We talk about his journey, his collaborations with Andy, Tracie, and Derrick Vogel, and his 2024 Blaufrankish. Learn more at petoskeyfarms.com and the region at petoskey.wine. Follow Chaz on Instagram @winemaker_chaz.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.