WHAT
Each year in October, the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners’ Association hosts its month-long event, The Hunt for the Reds of October.
Each winery on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail features a red wine to highlight. This year, the fan favorite event returns with social distancing and safety measures in place. Shady Lane Cellars is among the locations participating in this event.
“Michigan grape growing and winemaking is all about capturing the cool climate characteristics of our region,” said Rick DeBlasio, general manager of Shady Lane Cellars and president of the LPVA. “This means that red wines are bright and vibrant with lush fruit notes and are refreshing in nature. Understanding Michigan red wine is really about understanding style. We grow specific varieties and craft them in ways to truly express our region and our climate.”
WHY
In its 5th year – 2016 – The Hunt for the Reds of October provides a memorable experience and a chance for winemakers to spotlight reds in a region traditionally known for world-class white, sparkling and rose wine.
WHEN
Weekdays only, October 1-31, 2020
WHERE
9580 E. Shady Lane, Suttons Bay, MI 49682
Shady Lane Cellars encompasses 150 acres in Suttons Bay, including its 52-acre estate-grown vineyard, a 100-year-old fieldstone chicken coop-turned-tasting room, a 32-foot covered patio tasting pavilion and outdoor fireplace.
TICKETS
Tickets are $25 and will be available at the wineries or online at lpwines.com.
SUPPORT
For each ticket sold, part of the proceeds will again be donated to the American Red Cross in Northern Michigan. The donations directly impact the region.
“Northern Michigan Red Cross provides immediate financial assistance, mental health support, lodging, and comfort kits for anyone impacted by a home fire,” said Cathy Anthofer-Fialon, executive director for Northern Michigan Red Cross. “We are the only non-profit in Northern Michigan responding to every home fire. We have seen a significant increase in home fires during the pandemic.
“Volunteer teams who respond do use social distancing protocols, which can be tough for them and the clients, because we can’t hug people anymore. But, we are still there to provide comfort and aid.”
INTERVIEWS
- General Manager Rick DeBlasio, Shady Lane Cellars
- Winemaker Kasey Wierzba, Shady Lane Cellars
- Executive Director Cathy Anthofer-Fialon, Northern Michigan Red Cross
MORE
Shady Lane Cellars produces one of the largest percentages of estate-grown wine in its region. Offering hilltop views of the Leelanau Peninsula in northern Michigan, the winery and its staff create a comfortable approach to wine. Tours, tasting experiences, private events and a wine club membership are all available. Connect on Facebook or Instagram.
