In this episode I sit with Gunnar Olson, owner of Baroda Founders Winecellar, to reflect on the legacy of his father, Leonard Olson. Leonard helped launch modern Michigan wine, beginning with Tabor Hill in 1970 and continuing through Berrien Vintners, Tanner Creek, River Bend Winery in Louisville, and Baroda Founders Winecellars. Gunnar shares stories from inside a family that helped build the foundation for the industry we know today. Visit Baroda Founders at barodafounderswinecellar.com

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Episode 151 features Maxx Eichberg in the third installment of our five-part series on pioneers and trailblazers. Maxx returns to talk about regenerative farming and the hands on work that forms the foundation of great wine. You do not have to have been involved in Michigan winegrowing for multiple decades to be a pioneer, and Maxx shows why. We also reference Lauren Burns of Tending Tilth, featured in episode 121. Learn more at strangerwineco.com or contact hello@strangerwineco.com.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

This episode continues our five-part series on pioneers and trailblazers in Michigan wine. Tony Peterson of Contessa Winecellars shares the story behind his ten-acre vineyard, his focus on Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Moscato, and the possible addition of Cabernet Franc, and his long standing role in shaping the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. We also talk about the early days of the Michigan Grape and Wine Council, now known as the Michigan Craft Beverage Council, and Tony’s commitment to building a strong, supportive network across the industry. Learn more at contessawinecellars.com and michigan.gov/mdard/about/boards/craftbeverage.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.