Taste Best of MI Wine Trade Training Pilot Program The Taste Best of Michigan Trade Training Initiative is a new industry-driven program designed to strengthen knowledge, increase placements, and expand access to Michigan wines across wholesale, retail, restaurant, and hospitality channels. Initiated by the Michigan Wine Collaborative, this pilot program is focused on equipping…
The Michigan Wine Collaborative kicked off its new Educational Series on February 12, 2026, with an inspiring conversation between Christian Butzke, Wine Professor at Purdue University with 33 years of industry experience, and Nancie Oxley, Vice President of Winemaking at St. Julian Wine Company and Purdue alumna. What We Discussed The conversation flowed naturally through…
PA 232 Update Are you are Michigan wine grape grower? Are you updated on the current PA 232 proposal? Are you involved? NOW is the time to lean in and be a part of the conversation. Below is a thorough update along with some background on the PA 232 proposal project for wine grapes. In 2025,…
Can You Host That Wedding? Legal Pitfalls in Winery Event Contracts and Liquor Law Compliance Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Michigan’s wineries have become some of the state’s most sought-after wedding and event destinations. Vineyard views, fun tasting rooms, and a local atmosphere make these venues desirable to couples seeking something different from…
Victory on the Peninsula: What the Wineries of Old Mission Decision Means for Michigan Wineries Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC The recent ruling in Wineries of the Old Mission Peninsula Association v. Peninsula Township, Case No. 1:20-cv-1008 (W.D. Mich. July 7, 2025), represents a watershed moment for Michigan wineries—not just those on Old…
The wine industry is a major economic engine, and a large contributor to the United States economy, with wine producers, distributors, retailers, and consumers in all 50 states. WineAmerica, the National Association of American Wineries in Washington, DC, commissioned a study of the wine industry’s total impact in 2025, which was shown to be over…
Dram Shop Liability for Winery Tasting Rooms in Michigan Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC If you operate a tasting room in Michigan, onsite or offsite, understanding the State’s dram shop laws is important. These laws impose specific responsibilities and potential liabilities on establishments that serve alcohol, including winery tasting rooms. Michigan’s dram…
Employment Law Focus: Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC You have probably heard about the recent changes to Michigan’s employment laws via the Earned Sick Time Act (“ESTA”) that was approved by Michigan lawmakers. Especially with significant changes like these, it is crucial for you to stay informed and…
Trademark and Branding Protection for Michigan Wineries Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC The Michigan wine industry is thriving, with more than 170 wineries producing distinctive wines that draw tourists and wine enthusiasts to the State’s tasting rooms and beautiful vineyards. As more winemakers come to market, competition grows, and branding and trademark protection…
Public Service Announcement: Join Us for the 4th Town Hall Meeting on Exploring Funding Mechanisms for the Wine Industry! Attention all wine enthusiasts and industry professionals! The 4th Town Hall Meeting is just around the corner, and this time, we’re delving into a crucial topic: exploring funding mechanisms for the wine industry. This is…
