July 7, 2025 (Traverse City, MI) — The wineries of the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail (OMPWT) have emerged victorious in their long-standing federal lawsuit against Peninsula Township. The court’s decision reaffirms the wineries’ constitutional rights and marks the end of a 16-year battle that challenged restrictive zoning ordinances which had unjustly hindered their operations. The court awarded almost $50 Million in damages to the wineries to compensate for the profits lost from unconstitutional and unlawful ordinances.
The wineries, a cornerstone of the local economy, have always been more than just family farms and businesses – they are vital contributors to the community, supporting regional agriculture and employing hundreds across the Old Mission Peninsula. Whether welcoming visitors to their tasting rooms, hosting celebrations, or leading agritourism initiatives, these regional partnerships have been central to their mission. The wineries firmly believe in protecting and preserving local agriculture, and this commitment will only strengthen as they move ahead.
Justice Served for the Wineries and the Community
The court’s ruling is a significant win for the wineries, which had long contended that restrictive ordinances undermined their ability to grow their businesses, support local agriculture, and contribute to the community’s cultural and economic vitality. The ruling also affirms that the regulations in question were not only unconstitutional but unnecessarily burdensome to the wineries, who were simply seeking the ability to operate on a level playing field with other businesses across the state.
“This result helps clarify rules we have sought to understand for years, allowing us to continue building our agricultural business on legally approved foundations,” shared Marie-Chantal Dalese, CEO of Chateau Chantal Winery. “Now, we seek to move forward together with our neighbors in a way that continues to preserve agriculture and recognizes legal business activities.”
Chris Baldyga, owner of 2 Lads Winery and President of the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, added, “This outcome allows us to focus on what truly matters – our partnerships with local farms, fostering community engagement, being responsible stewards of the land and making world-class wines. We couldn’t host small community or charity events or things like local farm to table dinners before; now, we look forward to creating more opportunities that bring us together.”
The Role of Wineries in the Township
For over 50 years wineries have partnered with local farms to sustain and diversify the agricultural heritage of Old Mission. Their partnerships with local farms have helped preserve valuable agricultural lands and create a market for locally grown products. Additionally, the wineries have become beloved destinations for both locals and tourists, offering unique experiences that highlight the beauty and richness of the region. The court’s ruling will enable these businesses to continue their positive impact on the community without the hindrance of overly restrictive ordinances. This outcome ensures that the wineries can further support local agriculture, grow their businesses, and contribute to the vibrant, diverse culture of the Peninsula.
A Bright Future Ahead
This ruling marks a hopeful chapter for both the wineries and the broader community. The wineries of Old Mission Peninsula are eager to move forward, fostering continued growth of the agricultural heritage that defines the region. They remain committed to being responsible stewards of the land and valuable members of the community, dedicated to preserving the character and charm of Old Mission Peninsula for generations to come.
For more information:
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, https://www.ompwinetrail.com/
