October 29, 2026 (Grand Rapids, MI) — Award-winning wines from the 2026 Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup wine competition will take center stage at the dinner table as Taste Michigan and Chef Kiel Nickerson of KNCO Private Dining reunite for an exclusive series of six-course Governor’s Cup wine pairing dinners during the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, November 20–21, at DeVos Place.
Returning for the second consecutive year, the culinary partnership will feature five intimate dining experiences pairing standout wines from the 2026 Taste MI Governor’s Cup Competition with Chef Nickerson’s inventive dishes including a welcome toast for guests courtesy of MAWBY. From sparkling wine and caviar to Michigan sweet corn ice cream and the competition’s Governor’s Cup Best in Show winning Dessert Riesling from French Valley Vineyard, the menu celebrates the versatility of Michigan-grown wines and their place at the table.
“We are proud to continue our partnerships with The Michigan Wine Collaborative, The Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup Competition, and the seven incredible wineries who will be highlighted this year at our 2nd Annual Pairing Dinner. It’s truly an honor to have several of the best pours from the great state of Michigan elevate the experience of our tasting menu by pairing perfectly with our dishes!”
Award-Winning Michigan Wines Meet Culinary Creativity
The thoughtfully curated menu pairs some of Michigan’s highest-honored wines with Chef Nickerson’s inventive culinary creations, showcasing the diversity and food-friendly character of wines produced from Michigan-grown fruit.
Following a welcome toast featuring MAWBY’s Best in Class Blanc Brut, guests will experience six distinctive pairings, beginning with a sweet potato biscuit featuring Caribbean chili oil, crème fraîche, and Ossetra caviar alongside Social Vines Vignoles. Additional courses include potato-dusted sablefish paired with BluStone Chardonnay, cured and charred pork belly with Stoney Ridge Petite Pearl, and duck breast tostada accompanied by Verterra Cabernet Franc Rosé.The experience continues with steak haché au poivre paired with Cherry Creek’s Proprietors Reserve Red Blend before concluding with Michigan sweet corn ice cream and French Valley Vineyard’s Governor’s Cup-winning Dessert Riesling. Together, the six courses demonstrate the remarkable versatility of Michigan wines and the creativity possible when award-winning winemaking meets inspired cuisine.
Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup Wine Pairing Dinners
Friday, November 20: 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 21: 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Seating is limited, and advance reservations are required. Tickets are $100 per person, with festival admission sold separately.
The complete menu and ticket information are available at
https://showspan.com/grw/pairings/.
Experience Taste Michigan at the Festival
The Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival returns to DeVos Place November 20–21, bringing together beverages from around the world, regional culinary talent, and specialty tasting experiences.
Festival Hours:
- Friday, November 20: 4–9 p.m.
- Saturday, November 21: 2–9 p.m.
Taste MI Governor’s Cup Award Ceremony: Friday, November 20, 3–4 p.m.
Industry Tasting Hours: Friday, November 20, 1–3 p.m.
Location: DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI
For festival admission, tasting experiences, and additional event information, visit www.GRWineFestival.com.
For information about the Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup, Michigan Wine Collaborative, and participating Michigan wineries, visit www.TasteMichigan.org.
About the Michigan Wine Collaborative
The Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC) unites wineries, growers, suppliers, educators, and industry 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.
About Taste Michigan
Taste Michigan is a statewide initiative developed by the Michigan Wine Collaborative to increase awareness and demand for wines produced from Michigan-grown grapes. Through consumer events, trade engagement, educational programming, and collaborative marketing campaigns, Taste Michigan highlights the diversity, quality, and regional identity of Michigan wine while strengthening connections between wineries, restaurants, retailers, and consumers.
