Today, my guest is Michael Reinke, the Viticulture Specialist at the Michigan State University Extension Center, located just east of Benton Harbor. Recorded in August, this episode features a discussion on Michael’s career and some of the exciting projects he’s working on at the Center. If you have any questions, you can reach Michael at 269-927-5674. You can also find the Center online at www.canr.msu.edu/berrien/index.

Jayme and I embark on a blind tasting of three exceptional dry Rieslings from around the world. Our lineup includes Domaine Berrien’s 2022 Dry Riesling from Michigan, Selbach Oster from the prestigious Mosel region, and the iconic Trimbach from Alsace. Notably, Domaine Berrien is located at approximately 42° N, the Mosel region at about 50.5° N, and Alsace around 48.5° N. Join us as we explore the distinct flavors and nuances of each wine.

Today's guest is Tim Godfrey, the new Director of Wine and Viticulture Technology at Lake Michigan Vintners. With big shoes to fill after Michael Moyer’s departure, Tim is here to share the latest on the Midwest’s first teaching winery. Prepare to dive into his philosophy, and his exciting vision for the future of Lake Michigan Vintners. www.lakemichiganvintners.com

Jayme and I explore corks and screw caps, and when, where and why it makes sense to use each.

Jason Johnson is brand new to the Lake Michigan Shore and comes to us from California’s Napa Valley. Last winter Zach and Lindsay Filkins purchased Karma Vista Vineyards from Joe and Sue Herman, and one of their first hires was Jason. He brings a wealth of experience and we are all excited to see what he does with the new venture. You can reach Filkins Vineyards at their website, filkinsvineyards.com or by email, info@filkinsvineyards.com. If you have a question for Jason, feel free to reach him directly at jason@filkinsvineyards.com.

Sherry Seston is back with us today for another winery immersion. Joining Jayme and me, Sherry will guide us through a tasting of four exquisite wines from her Veritas Estate winery in South Haven, Michigan. The four wines are, Wren White Blend 2023, Chardonnay 2023, Beach Day Rose’ 2023, Blaufränkisch 2023. Go back to episode 61 to hear Sherry’s Chardonnay featured in a blind tasting we performed, including one from Chablis and one from Argentina. mivintageinn.com

Mike De Schaaf is my guest today. Mike is not only a seasoned vineyard consultant but also the farm manager at the MSU Extension Center in Benton Harbor. We dive into his journey in the Lake Michigan Shore wine industry and explore the vinifera varieties that thrive in this region. Plus, Mike has a story about my mom that you won’t want to miss.

Jayme and I discuss the USA AVA system, particularly focused on the Midwest states. There’s a lot of information here, and a few things that we’d really appreciate feedback about. If you have information that can help us, please let me know. Note that this is part 1. Be sure to tune into part 2 in a few weeks.