Page 16 - Michigan RV and Campgrounds directory

Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds
What is Michigan known for?
WINE — According to Michiganwines.com, Michigan grows more than 50 different grape varieties within the European, native American, or French/American hybrid categories. These plants cover more than 15,000 acres of vineyards belonging
to 117 commercial wineries. The industry continues to grow and vintners continue to expand their offerings as well as produce award-winning favorites.
With part of the state at the 45th parallel, the same as Bordeaux, France, one of the best growing regions in Europe, the northern portion of Michigan is ideal for growing many European varieties. The most popular wines you’ll see from Michigan include: Riesling, Chardonnay, cabernet franc, and pinot noir. Most wines are produced from these tried and true grape varieties.
There are many native species, of course, such as Concord and Niagara, but they are used mainly for juice such as the sparkling wine of St. Julian Winery in Paw-Paw.
Hybrid crosses have found success in Michigan and are often used in blends. Michiganwines.com reports that Marechal Foch, which can produce a red wine as well as blush; Chancellor, which grows well in the southwest portion of the state; and vignoles, a versatile grape that can produce semi-dry and late harvest wines, are among the popular hybrids used around Michigan.
brews, and a standard flight. Their 51K IPA, heavy on the hops, was rated 96/100 by Draft Magazine. In stores, Blackrocks products stand out from the crowd by being in cans rather than glass bottles. The Vierling on South Front is home to the Marquette Harbor Brewery. One of the first brew pubs in the state, Marquette Harbor Brewery specializes in ales and lagers, including honey wheat ale and a red ale. Another stop to make is the Ore Dock Brewing Co. on Spring Street, which opened in 2012. The brewery has already made a name for itself. Enjoy both American and Belgian style beers that run the gamut: porters, ales, IPAs, and wheat.
Beer enthusiasts flock to Marquette in September for the Annual U.P. Fall Beer Festival hosted by the Michigan Brewers Guild, a good chance for anyone to enjoy multiple brews in one place. This event usually sells out fast so it’s important to get your tickets online as soon as they are available.
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It goes without saying, but don’t drink and drive. Enjoy the bounty Michigan has to offer
in the pub, at the brewery, or in the comfort of your camper. And make sure to reference the directory in this issue or use our interactive map on the go at www.marvac.org to find a place to stay nearest your chosen destination.
14 2016 MICHIGAN RV & CAMPGROUNDS
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