January 27, 2026 — The Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC), the nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the sustainability, profitability, and visibility of Michigan’s wine industry, is proud to announce its Board of Directors for 2026. The board brings together a diverse group of leaders from across the state, including winery owners and operators, grape growers, tourism partners, and industry specialists committed to strengthening Michigan’s wine community. The 2026 Michigan Wine Collaborative Board of Directors is as follows:
Executive Board
- Andrew Backlin, President – Winemaker, Modales Winery
- Barry O’Brien, Vice President– Owner, O’Brien Vineyards
- Peter King III, Treasurer – Partner/Winemaker, Drew Ryan Wines
- Brian Lesperance, Secretary – Vice President of Operations & Winemaking, Fenn Valley Vineyards
Board Members
- Mike Laing – Owner/Director, MAWBY (NW Winery)
- Bob Utter – Owner, Flying Otter Winery (SE Winery)
- Paul Hamelin* – Co-Owner & Founder, Verterra Winery (NW Winery)
- Katelyn Ramsay* – Co-Owner & Winemaker, Heronmark Farms (SW Grower)
- Ed Peabody – Director, HOUR Custom Publishing / Michigan Wine Country Magazine (Tourism)
- Drew Bentley* – Owner/Sommelier, Michigan Wine & Beer Portal (Restaurant/Retail)
- Dennis Devitt – Specialty Crop Sales Manager & Statewide Viticulturist, Wilbur Ellis (Supplier/Vendor)
Honorary Board Members & Specialists
- Mark Vanneste – Honorary Legal Board Member, Howard & Howard Attorneys
- Jeff Wheeler – Honorary IT Specialist, Thistlevale Vineyard
- Ed Bueche – Honorary Financial Strategist, Peak Financial Services
*Newly Elected Board Members
“We are thrilled to welcome such a passionate and experienced group to our 2026 board,” said Emily Dockery, Executive Director of the Michigan Wine Collaborative. “Their leadership will be vital as MWC continues to support Michigan wineries, growers, wine professionals, wine lovers, and others invested in our industry—we will continue to thrive by fostering collaboration, innovation, and opportunities statewide.”
MWC’s Board of Directors is elected by the organization’s membership and serves three-year terms designed to ensure continuity, regional representation, and balanced industry perspectives. Board priorities for 2026 include enhancing and expanding statewide marketing efforts, expanding workforce development and educational programming, inclusivity and industry expansion, strengthening industry partnerships, and supporting sustainability initiatives across Michigan’s wine regions.
For more information on the Michigan Wine Collaborative or to learn how to get involved, visit michiganwinecollaborative.com or contact info@michiganwinecollaborative.com.
About the Michigan Wine Collaborative
The Michigan Wine Collaborative unites wineries, growers, suppliers, educators, and partners to strengthen Michigan’s wine industry through advocacy, education, networking, and shared resources. Its mission is to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the Michigan wine community now and for generations to come.
