*This article was originally published in 2021, during the throes of the COVID pandemic. It has been revised as of summer 2026 with more current and accurate information.
Driving Time: 2 hours, 4 minutes
Distance: 98 miles
The word “pioneer” has an almost romantic and adventurous sentiment attached to it. Pioneers were early settlers, folks who embarked on a new life into an unknown land, men and women who were strong and tough and creative. Early pioneers of the industrial age brought forth new inventions and methods, including the horseless carriage and the assembly line.
Yes, Michigan has seen its fair share of pioneers, from explorers to miners to farmers to tycoons. Much of the early settlement of the state, before it was even a state, occurred in the southeast region. And it is well known that many inventors made their start in that region, as well. The Pioneer Wine Trail is aptly named in recognition of the region’s long history as well as the pioneering spirit of modern-day winemakers. As always, if you are planning on wine tasting, have a designated driver.
Stop #1: Flying Otter Vineyard and Winery, Tecumseh
This family operated vineyard is a favorite in southwest Michigan. Founded in 2005 by the Utter Family and its first harvest conducted in 2007, Flying Otter is named for the owner’s love for aviation and for the fact that their Swedish family name, Utter, means “otter.” The open-air pavilion and tasting room is seasonal (May-October) and open Thursday through Sunday. Create your own flights, or try a wine slushie, hard cider, or special sangria. The winery hosts live music and other events as well. The libations pair well with the food menu, which features traditional fare, a grill menu a couple nights a week, and delectable desserts. Reservations are recommended for parties of four or more on Friday and Saturday nights, which can be done on the website.
Stop #2: Pentamere Winery, Tecumseh
This winery is in downtown Tecumseh, in a historic 1880s building. Wine tastings are complimentary, and you can take a look at the production facilities. This urban winery concentrates on the winemaking in the lower level of the building and contracts with established vineyards to produce the grapes. The batches are small, so if you like something, you’re encouraged to buy some for home because you may not see it again; the winemakers are always trying new ideas.
Stop #3: Cherry Creek Cellars, Brooklyn
Do you love Old World style wines? Or do your taste buds prefer fun and fruity? You’ll find both at Cherry Creek Cellars, which has a tasting room and cafe located in an old schoolhouse. The Burtka’s, owners, come from four generations of passionate home winemakers, but it wasn’t until 2003 when John and Denise decided to make winemaking into a career. They’ve never regretted their decision. The vineyard uses hybrid varietals, which are cold-hearty and old-world style. They also contract with growers across Michigan for other varieties. Cherry Creek is open year-round, and it has a beautiful outdoor patio with pergola.
Stop #4: Chateau Aeronautique Winery, Jackson
From humble beginnings at an airpark, Chateau Aeronatique Winery is just one operation under a larger umbrella, which operates a brewery and distillery as well. Founded, owned, and operated by a now-retired airline pilot, this winery was the first of the trio to launch. It was relocated to the Irish Hills in It’s now a popular music and event space – the timber framed Biergarten is the perfect spot to take in one of the Classic Rock tribute bands, dance bands, or dueling pianos. A twist is the tapas menu, which features several flights of delicious food, such as Captain’s Filet Flight and Chef’s Deviled Egg Flight. There is other food offered as well of the meat, cheese, and nibble persuasion.
Stop #5: Sandhill Crane Vineyards, Jackson
Family owned and operated with 100 percent Michigan-grown fruit, Sandhill Crane Vineyards started as the hobby of a retired Detroit officer. The hobby grew into a business, and today, the daughters of the original owners continue the tradition. The wine menu is varied, making it easy for anybody of any palate to find something, and constantly changing because the batches are small. Try out several by purchasing a wine flight in the tasting room. There is a food menu with recommended wine pairings, a wine club, and music on Friday nights during the summer and fall months. Other events take place here as well. The website has the full list.
Stop #6: Burgdorf’s Winery, Haslett
Burgdorf’s Winery is proud to call itself a “garagiste” winery. What exactly does that mean? Well, for Deborah and David, the dream started in a three-car garage. Everything from wine production to wine tasting occurred in this space. In 2024, the couple opened a new tasting room in Webberville at Choice Farm Market. This couple is creative with their spectrum of wine offerings as well as on-site events. Burgdorf’s is considered a Truly Michigan winery, meaning the wines are produced from 100 percent Michigan-grown fruit. For dog lovers, you might consider the Hanky Panky, which is named in memory of the winery dog, Hank, or the gold medal winner, Spartan Red.
Find a MARVAC member campground, dealership, or service provider using our online regional maps: https://www.michiganrvandcampgrounds.org/south-central-region-map/.