FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2026
Michigan Wine Collaborative Named Best Regional Wine Industry Support Organization in 2026 Barrel & Bottle Awards
National recognition highlights MWC’s commitment to advancing Michigan’s wine industry through education, advocacy, collaboration, and promotion.
Media Contact:
Emily Dockery
Executive Director
Michigan Wine Collaborative
info@michiganwinecollaborative.com
(269) 615-8739
Michigan Wine Collaborative (MWC) is proud to announce that it has been named Best Regional Wine Industry Support Organization 2026 – USA in the LUXlife Magazine Barrel & Bottle Awards 2026.
The recognition celebrates MWC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Michigan’s wine industry by connecting producers, expanding educational opportunities, advocating for industry interests, and elevating the visibility of Michigan-grown and Michigan-produced wines.
As the statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Michigan’s wine industry, MWC works collaboratively with wineries, vineyards, hospitality professionals, tourism organizations, educational institutions, and public and private partners to foster a thriving and sustainable wine sector.
“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible collaboration and dedication that define Michigan’s grape and wine industry, and the people who pour everything they have into it each day and every vintage,” said Emily Dockery, Executive Director of Michigan Wine Collaborative. “Our work is rooted in the confidence that Michigan wine is coming into its own, and that through continued stewardship and collaboration, we can build on generations of dedication to create new opportunities for our growers and producers while introducing more consumers and trade professionals to the exceptional wines being made across our state.”
Throughout 2026, MWC has continued to expand its impact through several initiatives, including:
- Industry Education and Workforce Development: Advancing the Taste Best of Michigan trade education initiative, the Inclusion and Expansion Educational Fund, and supporting programs designed to increase access, knowledge, confidence, and sales opportunities for Michigan wines.
- Wine Promotion and Market Development: Showcasing Michigan wines through the Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup, regional tasting events, consumer engagement, and industry partnerships.
- Tourism and Economic Development: Building partnerships to position Michigan wine as an integral part of the state’s agricultural, culinary, and tourism experiences.
- Industry Collaboration: Connecting producers, suppliers, educators, and partners to share resources, address challenges, and support the long-term growth of Michigan’s wine industry.
The LUXlife Barrel & Bottle Awards recognize organizations and businesses contributing to excellence and innovation across the beverage industry.
The recognition comes as MWC prepares to celebrate Michigan’s award-winning wines at the Taste Michigan Governor’s Cup Awards Ceremony on November 20, during the Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival, where producers and industry partners will gather to recognize excellence in Michigan winemaking.
For more information about Michigan Wine Collaborative, its programs, and membership opportunities, visit www.michiganwinecollaborative.com.
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.
For more information, contact us by reaching out to info@michiganwinecollaborative.com or send us a message on social media.