June 3-7 2024
A New Kind of Wine Travel

Get ready to journey North with us to the Great Lakes State! We’re heading to Michigan where the next wave of winemaking is captivating the palates of wine pros and pleasure seekers alike.

Situated along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is brimming with enchanting landscapes, freshwater beaches, and a burgeoning wine scene that is becoming an emerging hub for the industry. Fondly known as the Cherry Capital of the World, the Traverse City area is endowed with unique microclimates and glacial soils which create exceptional conditions for growing a diverse range of crops. While cherries have blazed a trail for agriculture here, grapes are elevating the heritage and the food scene is leaning into the legacy.

Winemakers here flex their tenacity and creativity as they embrace the challenges of regional variabilities to produce remarkable wines using hybrid and vinifera grapes.

Michigan's food and wine scene is not only an intriguing destination for wine lovers but also a testament to the passion and commitment of its tastemakers who are making waves and securing a promising future in the world of wine and beyond.

Image Credit: Amoritas Vineyards

Community Partner: Simonne Mitchelson

Stepping into the role of Community Partner for Field Blends: Michigan is a homecoming for Simonne. After gaining over a decade of experience in wine regions around the world, Simonne is excited to bring greater visibility to her home state's best-kept appellations. She believes Michigan wine’s approachability will entice the next generation of wine drinkers while championing diversity beyond vinifera. Simonne’s work centers the experience of fellow 1st generation kids, ensuring that barriers do not mar entry into the wine biz for future generations.

Winemaker, Co-Founder of Natural Action, Founder of Cal Poly BIPOC Scholarship Program

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the package?
We’ve got five days of one-of-a-kind food and wine experiences expertly curated for you. This includes immersive regional programming, thoughtfully prepared meals, beautiful accommodations, transportation between destinations, private access to wines, chefs, farms, and vintners that will surprise and delight you, and so much more. Our Community Partner and regional collaborators are also on hand to share behind-the-scenes tours, stories, and insider travel tips with you.

What’s not included in the package?
Travel costs (airfare, car rentals, gas, etc.), transport to/from hotel/airport (rideshare options and taxis are available in and around Traverse City, and accommodations for any additional nights (if extending your trip) are not included in the cost of the package.

What are the dates for the Field Blends: Michigan trip?
We’re excited to welcome you to Traverse City, Michigan June 3rd-7th, 2024.

How long is the trip?
We’ll enjoy Monday evening through Friday afternoon together – four nights, five days.

I want to extend my trip. Can you help me do so thoughtfully?
We’re happy to provide additional recommendations should you decide to extend your trip! We can offer guidance on accommodations, things to do, introductions to different wineries, tastings with other conscious producers, and more. If you want to extend your trip, let us know on your registration form!

How do I get to Traverse City?
Whether traveling by plane, train, or car, accessing the Traverse City region is easier than you think. Check out options for Getting to Traverse City in Michigan.

Can I travel with a partner/friend?
Absolutely! In fact, we are offering a $500 discount for couples or duos traveling together and sharing a room. Simply mark that you will be traveling with a companion on the registration form.

When do we receive our agenda?
You can expect your full itinerary at least 10 days before we depart (and we’ll have surprises along the way!). But don’t worry, you’ll hear from us about your trip before then.

How many other guests will be on this trip?
Field Blends: Michigan is an intimate food and wine experience reserved for a total of 14 guests, which includes Trip Awards seats. Small group travel grants us the ability to provide personal attention, higher-quality programming, more flexibility to explore, and access to people and places that wouldn’t be available for larger groups.

Can I bring my pet?
As much as we love our furry friends, pets are not permitted on these trips. Service animals are most certainly welcomed.

Can I bring my children?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the planned experiences, persons under the age of 21 may not be in attendance for any part of Field Blends.

What COVID-related guidelines are being advised?
The health and safety of our guests, community partners, and team are of utmost importance. As such, guests must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 in order to attend. We are staying on top of CDC guidelines and will be sending guests regular updates regarding COVID-19 safety and travel tips leading up to the trip. If you’re traveling from outside Michigan, be sure to stay on top of Michigan state's travel advisories and Department of Health guidelines as well as advisories from airlines you may be booking with.

Who should apply for the Field Blends Trip Awards?
While all are welcome to apply, Field Blends Trip Awards seek to empower individuals from underrepresented communities pursuing a career in the wine industry through community-building, inquiry, and exploration. If you are already in or actively seeking employment in the wine industry and meet the requirements for Trip Awards, we’d love for you to apply! Check out the Trip Awards page to learn more.

When can I apply for a trip award?
Applications for Field Blends: Michigan Trip Awards will be open for submission in early 2024. Check out the Trip Awards page for more info.

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