Uncorking History: The Evolution of SW Michigan Wine

Fri Oct 10 2025 at 06:00 pm to 07:30 pm UTC-04:00

Lake Michigan College Welch Center for Wine & Viticulture | Benton Harbor

Michael Moyer
Publisher/HostMichael Moyer
Uncorking History: The Evolution of SW Michigan Wine
Advertisement
Explore Michigan wine history with Steve Salisbury—taste 5 local wines and hear the stories that shaped the Lake Michigan Shore AVA.
About this Event

Uncork the History of Michigan Wine

Explore the legacy of winemaking in the Lake Michigan Shore AVA with Steve Salisbury, WSET-certified wine educator and host of the If Vines Could Talk podcast. In this 90-minute class, Steve shares the region’s history through firsthand stories and a guided tasting of Michigan wines.

From family farm beginnings to work at iconic wineries like Tabor Hill and Banholzer Winecellars, Steve shares how Southwest Michigan has evolved into a dynamic wine destination.

You’ll taste five wines chosen to reflect key turning points in Michigan’s wine journey, each highlighting the region’s climate, character and resilience.

What you’ll experience:

- The surprising history behind Michigan’s wine success

- How grape growing and winemaking shaped regional identity

- Five wines that align with historical milestones

- Live Q&A with one of Michigan’s most seasoned wine storytellers

Whether you’re new to Michigan wine or a longtime supporter, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region and for the glass in your hand.

Learn from a Pro!

This tasting is led by Steve Salisbury, a WSET-certified wine educator and host of the If Vines Could Talk podcast. With decades of hands-on experience in Southwest Michigan’s wine industry—including work at Tabor Hill and Banholzer Winecellars—Steve brings a deep knowledge of local wine history and a passion for storytelling. His presentations blend personal insight, historical depth, and expertly curated wine selections.

This Extended Education class is for personal enrichment only and is not eligible for college credit. If you are interested in learning more about LMC’s Wine and Viticulture Technology program, please reach out to Program Director Tim Godfrey at .


Event Photos
Event Photos
Advertisement

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Lake Michigan College Welch Center for Wine & Viticulture, 2774 East Empire Avenue, Benton Harbor, United States

Tickets

USD 39.19

Sharing is Caring:

More Events in Benton Harbor

Vineyard 2121 Book Club
Thu, 09 Oct at 06:30 pm Vineyard 2121 Book Club

4110 Red Arrow Hwy, Benton Harbor, MI, United States, Michigan 49022

October Friday Night Frequency Float
Fri, 10 Oct at 07:00 pm October Friday Night Frequency Float

401 Klock Rd., Benton Harbor, MI, United States, Michigan 49022

Nashville Recording Artist: Dylan Raymond at The Livery
Fri, 10 Oct at 08:00 pm Nashville Recording Artist: Dylan Raymond at The Livery

The Livery

Halloween Train Rides at Eden Springs Park at the House of David
Sat, 11 Oct at 05:00 pm Halloween Train Rides at Eden Springs Park at the House of David

789 M-139, Benton Harbor, MI, United States, Michigan 49022

MAKER DAYS - LMC Fab Lab - Open Lab & Tours, Work on Projects!
Mon, 13 Oct at 12:00 pm MAKER DAYS - LMC Fab Lab - Open Lab & Tours, Work on Projects!

Hanson Technology Center at Lake Michigan College

Halloween SKELETONS with the laser cutters in the Fab Lab
Tue, 14 Oct at 05:30 pm Halloween SKELETONS with the laser cutters in the Fab Lab

Lake Michigan College

Financial Literacy Workshop #2: Auto Financing & Homeownership
Wed, 15 Oct at 05:00 pm Financial Literacy Workshop #2: Auto Financing & Homeownership

Lake Michigan College Todd Center

Benton Harbor is Happening!

Never miss your favorite happenings again!

Explore Benton Harbor Events