Picture it: a free afternoon spent in the sun amongst rolling hills and vineyards, sipping on some wine…maybe with some live music in the background. Sound familiar? Italy? No. Northern California? Wrong, again. Could something this close to heaven really be located so close to Jackson? That answer is YES; Jackson has a number of local wineries that are the perfect way to spend your next day off this spring.
Chateau Aeronautique
Jackson is lucky enough to be home to one of Chateau Aeronautique’s three wineries. Chateau Aeronautique originated in owner Lorenzo Lizarralde’s airplane hangar on his own grass runway. Their Jackson location is known for its gazebo-style tasting room and fine wine made from Michigan grapes. Sitting in the aviation-themed tasting room at Chateau Aeronautique will have you feeling like you’ve hopped on a plane yourself and traveled to wine country.
Cherry Creek Cellars
While at Cherry Creek Cellars, you’ll feel transported back in time as you take in the rustic feel of what originally stood as a schoolhouse. Now, you can enjoy a flight of wine and snacks from their café as you enjoy their grand patio and take in the views that overlook the vineyard. Cherry Creek is also known for the live music they host every weekend, crafting events, and igloos in the wintertime.
Sandhill Crane Vineyards
If you’re looking for a winery that has that European feel, while also featuring fresh, local Michigan ingredients, Sandhill Crane Vineyards is your place. Sandhill Crane is known for its jaw-dropping wraparound porch, which offers the perfect spot to sit and enjoy a glass (or bottle) of wine in the warmer months. Enjoy it was a charcuterie board complete with fresh bread, meats, and the cheese of the month.
As you can see, there’s no need to travel terribly far for your next wine tour. Give your local wineries a try before booking that plane ticket or planning that road trip. Great wine awaits, right here in Jackson.
