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…
Master the Fundamentals of Winemaking with Purdue Every great wine begins with the right foundation. But where do you begin? Purdue University’s online Winemaking Certificate introduces the core principles that shape every bottle — from sparkling wine to ice wine. The course module blends tradition with innovation, giving you a comprehensive understanding of winemaking styles,…
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…
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…
2024/2025 MWC Sponsor Shout Out Feature MWC works hard for the Michigan wine industry and none of it would be possible without our members or our sponsors. We wanted to take some time this month to recognize some of our biggest supporters. Including: Howard & Howard Prime Vintage Farm Bureau Double A Vineyards Resource Label…
Prime Vintage Insurance Services, LLC is proud to announce it is entering the great state of Michigan to insure wineries and cideries. Prime Vintage is an insurance underwriting facility focused on the winery and cidery industry. We have a professional, knowledgeable, and ambitious underwriting and marketing team that caters to the insurance needs of your…
Attention: Michigan Grape Growers! Wilbur Ellis will be hosting our First Annual Grape Grower Label Update meeting. Please join us April 4th at the NW Michigan Horticultural Research Station from 8am- 12 noon. Learn about new label updates and new products. Join us for good discussion, raffles prizes, lunch and RUP credits. Please open the attached…
Wine (and Beer) Tasting Events at a Retailer’s Location Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Holding a tasting, or sampling, event at a retailer may be an effective way to introduce your product to consumers. Like all regulatory topics related to wine and beer, there are several items to keep in mind if…
