Picking Up Where We Left Off…

Leaving the serene hills of Old Mission Peninsula, I made my way back into town for an urban tasting room stop—but not just any. Quick note before we dive in: while this post can absolutely stand on its own, I recommend reading Part One for the full adventure across Traverse City and Old Mission (plus some can’t-miss wine, food, and scenic stops).

If there’s one winery that has been recommended to me more than any other, it’s Left Foot Charley, tucked inside the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons (more on that gem later). After visiting—and tasting—I completely understand the hype. I loved everything I tried and walked away with a small stash of bottles (and honestly, wanted more).

Why Left Foot Charley Lives Up to the Hype

Winemaker Brian Ulbrich has carved out something truly special here. He sources his grapes from 18 hand-selected growers—farmers he partners with exclusively, all located on Old Mission Peninsula. These vineyards, shaped by glacial soils and rolling hills, provide a vibrant, complex expression of the region’s terroir.

Chosen for their site specificity and farming integrity, these growers bring the foundation—he brings it to life. His winemaking philosophy leans toward aromatic varietals and minimal intervention, using old-world techniques that let the vineyard speak first. The result? Wines that are alive with character—expressive, balanced, and beautifully Michigan.

Left Foot Charley officially has a place on my "Worth the Pour" list.

Favorite Pours:

Blaufränkisch, Kerner, Pinot Blanc and Cremant of Michigan Rosé

More Cute Shops Grand Traverse Commons.jpg

A Stroll Through The Village + A Farm Fix

Before (or after) your tasting at Left Foot Charley, do yourself a favor and wander through the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Once a sprawling 19th-century psychiatric hospital complex, it’s now one of the most unique redevelopments in Michigan—an atmospheric collection of shops, galleries, cafés, and restaurants tucked into its winding historic corridors.

If you’re feeling adventurous, they even offer nighttime tours through the old tunnels and restored spaces—an unexpectedly fun (and slightly eerie) alternative to your typical night out.

I picked up a few cute finds here before hitting the road again—but not without a quick stop at one of my favorite kinds of places: a farm store.

The Cutest Little Farm Stop: Lakeview Hill Farm

I proudly admit it: I’m a total sucker for farmers markets and farm stores—and this one? Adorable.

Founded on a mission to connect people to fresh, responsibly grown food and local goods, Lakeview Hill Farm is small but mighty. I scored a few treasures here: a minimalist ceramic vase, locally roasted coffee beans, and the sweetest little rosemary wreath that made my car smell amazing for the rest of the day.

I was a little early in the season for produce, but I’ve been following them on social—and everything looks divine!

Shady Lane Cellars: A Standout Stop

With my farm fix satisfied, I was just a short drive from Shady Lane Cellars—and OMG, this place. Absolutely charming, and the wine? Just as lovely.

A boutique estate winery tucked into the rolling hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, Shady Lane is crafting expressive, sustainably made wines that celebrate the land, the lake, and the legacy of Northern Michigan winemaking. It’s a place where craftsmanship, community, and cool-climate beauty converge in every glass—and it completely stole my heart with its laid-back vibe and beautifully balanced bottles.

One of the things I love most? It’s female-led. Winemaker Kasey Wierzba—with roots in Napa Valley and degrees from Michigan State—brings both serious chops and recognized passion to the Leelanau wine scene, supported by an equally talented (also female!) assistant winemaker. Total bonus.

All that to say: if I had to choose just one favorite winery from the trip, this is it.
✔️ Gorgeous setting
✔️ Warm, welcoming staff
✔️ And most importantly—fantastic wine

Favorite Pour:

Grüner Veltliner—bright, crisp, and perfectly balanced, it’s a standout that really showcases the region’s cool climate. Shady Lane Cellars turned me into a Grüner fan and I couldn’t be happier about it!

I wrapped up the day at Little Fleet Food Truck Park, a buzzworthy outdoor spot filled with a rotating lineup of local food trucks serving everything from gourmet tacos to wood-fired pizza (and cocktails). After a day of wine tasting, it was the perfect casual hangout—and best of all, a walkable stroll from my Airbnb in downtown Traverse City.

Stay tuned for Part 3 - the conclusion to my first (but not last) visit to TC and the wine peninsulas. In the meantime, follow me on social and sign up for my newsletter so you don’t miss a sip. Cheers!

Uncorking More Northern Michigan (Wine) Finds