Chateau Grand Traverse
Historic winery on Old Mission Peninsula, famed for Rieslings, offering vineyard views and dog-friendly patio.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Chateau Grand Traverse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic winery on Old Mission Peninsula, famed for Rieslings, offering vineyard views and dog-friendly patio.
"The patio is a great spot to enjoy a glass while your furry friend lounges nearby."
🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends! The patio is a great spot to relax with your dog while enjoying wine.
🍷 Explore Wine Flights
Try a wine flight to sample a variety of their offerings. The 'Figgy Piggy' charcuterie is a must-try!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vineyard Views from the Patio
Patio overlooking the vineyard
Sip wine on a dog-friendly patio with breathtaking vineyard and bay views. Pure Michigan magic!
Award-Winning Rieslings
Tasting room
Sample some of Michigan's best Rieslings, from dry to sweet, including late harvest varieties.
Charcuterie Boards
Patio or tasting room
Indulge in delicious charcuterie boards, like the 'Figgy Piggy,' perfectly paired with their wines.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends! The patio is a great spot to relax with your dog while enjoying wine.
🍷 Explore Wine Flights
Try a wine flight to sample a variety of their offerings. The 'Figgy Piggy' charcuterie is a must-try!
🚗 Old Mission Peninsula Tour
Consider a wine tour to visit multiple wineries, including Chateau Grand Traverse.
🌅 Sunset Views
The Center Road Scenic Lookout near Chateau Grand Traverse offers incredible sunset views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends! The patio is a great spot to relax with your dog while enjoying wine.
🍷 Explore Wine Flights
Try a wine flight to sample a variety of their offerings. The 'Figgy Piggy' charcuterie is a must-try!
🚗 Old Mission Peninsula Tour
Consider a wine tour to visit multiple wineries, including Chateau Grand Traverse.
🌅 Sunset Views
The Center Road Scenic Lookout near Chateau Grand Traverse offers incredible sunset views.
🛍️ Merch Shop
Browse their merchandise shop after your tasting for souvenirs and wine accessories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chateau Grand Traverse for its beautiful vineyard views, friendly staff, and excellent wine selection, particularly its Rieslings. The dog-friendly patio and delicious charcuterie boards are frequent highlights, making it a relaxed and enjoyable experience. Some guests noted a minor inconvenience with self-checkout for purchased bottles, but overall satisfaction remains high.
"🍷 Chateau Grand Traverse – A Must-Visit Gem in Northern Michigan
We had a fantastic experience at Chateau Grand Traverse! This winery offers a wide variety of tasting options—from curated flights to à la carte wine tasting—and the cherry wines, made from locally sourced cherries, were a standout. 🍒
The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, helping us find wines that matched our preferences, whether dry, sweet, red, or white. Prices were very reasonable, and the overall atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.
They also offer a membership program with great perks like complimentary tastings and discounts on bottles. You can choose your wines or let their team surprise you with seasonal selections—perfect for adventurous sippers.
Bonus points for being pet-friendly! 🐾 The patio is a great spot to enjoy a glass while your furry friend lounges nearby.
If you're in the area, definitely stop by and explore their impressive selection. It’s a perfect blend of local flavor, hospitality, and charm."
Aaron P
"The wine flights were a great selection! 👌 (1-4 | right to left). The charcuterie board was amazing, and paired well with all of the wines we tried. The Figgy Piggy is super yummy. 😋 The weather was great, so the atmosphere was even better. They have beautiful views from the patio, and you feel like you're in a totally different place. The service was amazing - the staff are very friendly people. ✨ The patio is dog-friendly, so that's just another plus. Amazing place for a light lunch and some great wine. The Proprietor's Red is such an aromatic wine. 🤗 That was my favorite from my flight."
Dathan A. Griffin
"We sat on the patio overlooking part of the vineyard, it was beautiful and relaxing. We did not have much time on this visit and only shared a wine flight, but the staff were friendly and the folks that we sat next to said to definitely order the Figgy thing :)"
Mel Mattson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chateau Grand Traverse is located on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City, MI. It's accessible by car and is a popular stop on wine tours. Many visitors drive themselves or book a guided wine tour for convenient transportation.
Yes, Chateau Grand Traverse is frequently included in wine tours of the Old Mission Peninsula. Companies like NoMI Tours and TC Wine and Beer Tours often feature it. 
You can drive yourself, hire a driver, or join an organized wine tour. Many recommend tours for a hassle-free experience, especially if you plan to visit multiple wineries.
Absolutely! Chateau Grand Traverse is surrounded by other notable wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, including Brys Estate, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and Bonobo Winery.
While we don't have a map here, many tourism websites for Traverse City and Old Mission Peninsula offer downloadable winery maps. You can also find them on individual winery websites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always mandatory, reservations are recommended, especially on weekends or during peak season, to ensure you get a tasting slot and a more personalized experience.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Tasting fees typically vary depending on the flight or selection. Prices are generally considered reasonable, and many visitors find the value excellent for the quality and experience.
Yes, they offer a variety of wine flights, allowing you to sample several of their wines. The charcuterie boards are also highly recommended to pair with your tasting.
Yes, you can purchase wine by the glass to enjoy on their patio or buy bottles to take home. They also have a merchandise shop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, they offer charcuterie plates, which are highly praised and pair wonderfully with their wines. The 'Figgy Piggy' is a popular choice.
The focus is on charcuterie and small bites designed to complement their wine selection. It's perfect for a light lunch or snack while enjoying the vineyard views.
Generally, wineries prefer you purchase food and beverages on-site to support their business. It's best to check their specific policy, but outside food is usually not permitted.
Traverse City offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, if you're looking for a more substantial meal before or after your winery visit.
Reviews consistently praise the quality and deliciousness of their charcuterie boards, noting they are a great accompaniment to the wine tasting experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The patio overlooking the vineyard and West Grand Traverse Bay is a prime spot. The rolling vines themselves, especially during golden hour, offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The combination of the vineyard landscape, the architecture of the chateau, and the beautiful bay views makes it incredibly photogenic.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most magical lighting for photos, casting a warm glow over the vineyards and water.
Yes, feel free to photograph the wine bottles, especially if you're enjoying a tasting or have purchased a favorite.
The Center Road Scenic Lookout, located near Chateau Grand Traverse, is a popular spot for panoramic views and sunset photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the wine tastings are for adults, the beautiful surroundings and the opportunity to enjoy a charcuterie board make it a pleasant outing. Some wineries on Old Mission Peninsula may offer non-alcoholic options or have more space for children to move around, so it's worth checking policies if you have very young children.
🐶 Pet Owners
This policy makes it a standout choice for those who don't want to leave their pets at home. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash and be considerate of other guests to ensure a positive experience for all.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Consider joining a wine club for exclusive perks like complimentary tastings and discounts, or simply indulge in a curated wine flight paired with their delicious charcuterie. The knowledgeable staff can provide insights into their winemaking process and the nuances of each varietal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Chateau Grand Traverse Wines
Beyond Riesling, the winery also produces other notable varietals. The Chateau Grand Traverse Gamay Noir is a popular red choice, offering a lighter-bodied, fruit-forward profile. For those seeking something unique, their cherry wines, made from locally sourced cherries, are a delightful regional specialty and a standout for many visitors.
When visiting, taking advantage of their wine flights is an excellent way to sample a range of their offerings. This allows you to discover your personal favorites and understand the diversity of their portfolio. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the selections, helping you find wines that match your palate.
The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Experience
+1The peninsula is home to several acclaimed wineries, and Chateau Grand Traverse holds the distinction of being the first commercial winery on Old Mission Peninsula, opening its doors in 1974.
This pioneering spirit has paved the way for a vibrant wine tourism scene, attracting visitors eager to explore the diverse offerings. When visiting the peninsula, many travelers opt for organized wine tours that can efficiently take them to multiple wineries, including Chateau Grand Traverse, Brys Estate, and Bonobo Winery.
+1Visiting Chateau Grand Traverse with Pets
The patio provides a comfortable and scenic setting where dogs can relax while their owners savor the wines and charcuterie. It's a thoughtful amenity that enhances the overall visitor experience for many.
While the patio is pet-friendly, it's always a good idea to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of other guests. This ensures a pleasant environment for everyone, including your four-legged friends.
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