The Annual Wine Weekend is Loaded with Local Wines, Fresh Fare and Lots of
Touring Fun
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail’s Harvest Stompede event is an exciting time to explore the region’s wineries. Rolling hills of lush grapevines cover the countryside providing a stunning backdrop to wine tasting fun during the weekend wine tasting event that takes place September 12 and 13, 2015.
“Harvest Stompede is a great time to explore stunning lush vineyards and beautiful lake views,” shares Lorri Hathaway, director of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. “and, guests enjoy delicious wine and food amid the bustling excitement of the approaching harvest.”
Kicking-off the festivities is an optional race through the vineyards at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday at Ciccone Vineyards in Suttons Bay. A unique course between rows of grapevines offers an experience like no other for runners, walkers and spectators. The race is designed for serious to recreational runners and walkers with options for a 5K walk, 5K run or 7-mile run.
“It’s our favorite event of the year,” shares Tony Ciccone of Ciccone Vineyard & Winery. “It’s fun to see so many people race through the vineyards in celebration of the new vintage.” Following the race, guests savor local flavors while enjoying wine and food pairings at 21 wineries along the trail. Tasting hours for the self-guided tour are 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are $40 per person and include a souvenir wine glass and featured food and wine pairings at each of the 21 participating wineries. Food pairings will be announced soon. Get tickets and lodging packages at http://www.lpwines.com/harvest. To participate in the race, which is separate from the wine trail event, register online at https://www.signmeup.-com/site/online-event-registration/105611/SMUCalendar.
The Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association (LPVA) is a member-driven, winery association founded in 1998. The mission of the LPVA is to spread the word about all the good things happening along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. The trail is divided into three mini-trails for easy touring: the Sleeping Bear Loop, the Northern Loop and the Grand Traverse Bay Loop. The Leelanau Peninsula AVA is home to 25 wineries located within diverse microclimates uniquely suited for a variety of wine grapes. Among the internationally acclaimed varietals are Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. The local wines continue to achieve national and international accolades with each passing vintage.
Whaddaya think?