Health & Fitness
The Top 2 Best Wine Country Hotels in the US are in Northern Michigan
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Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, July 30th 2025 at 14:02 GMT by MLive🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Beautiful views, luxurious inns and great wine. Readers across the U.S. agree: Traverse City's Wine Coast for the win.
Northern Michigan Claims Top Spots for Best Wine Country Hotels in National Ranking
In a surprising yet well-deserved nod to the burgeoning wine scene of the Midwest, two hotels in northern Michigan have been crowned the absolute best in the nation for wine country accommodations. According to a recent readers' choice awards poll conducted by a prominent national publication, these hidden gems in the Traverse City area outshone competitors from renowned wine regions like Napa Valley, Sonoma, and the Finger Lakes. This recognition highlights not just the quality of the hotels themselves but also the rising prominence of Michigan's wine country, where rolling vineyards, stunning lake views, and innovative winemaking are drawing visitors from across the country. As someone who's covered the evolving landscape of American tourism and regional specialties, I can attest that this accolade is a game-changer for Michigan's hospitality industry, proving that world-class wine experiences aren't confined to the coasts.
The top honor went to the Inn at Black Star Farms, a luxurious yet approachable retreat nestled in the heart of the Leelanau Peninsula. This property, which seamlessly blends the charm of a boutique inn with the authenticity of a working winery, earned the number one spot for its exceptional integration of wine culture into every aspect of the guest experience. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of vine-covered hillsides, sipping estate-grown wines by a crackling fireplace, or participating in hands-on harvest activities during the fall season. The inn features just 10 elegantly appointed rooms, each designed with a nod to the region's agricultural heritage—think reclaimed wood accents, plush bedding, and private balconies overlooking the vineyards. Guests rave about the personalized service, where staff members double as wine experts, guiding visitors through tastings of Black Star Farms' award-winning varietals, including crisp Rieslings, robust Cabernet Francs, and unique fruit wines made from local cherries and apples.
What sets the Inn at Black Star Farms apart is its commitment to sustainability and farm-to-table ethos. The property spans 160 acres, including orchards, pastures, and, of course, extensive vineyards. Breakfasts are a highlight, featuring fresh eggs from on-site chickens, cheeses from the creamery, and baked goods infused with estate fruits. For those seeking deeper immersion, the inn offers exclusive experiences like private vineyard tours, blending workshops where guests can create their own wine labels, and even yoga sessions amid the vines. In the evenings, the tasting room transforms into a cozy gathering spot, often hosting live music or chef-led pairings that showcase Michigan's local produce. It's no wonder voters praised it for feeling like a "home away from home" in wine country, with one reviewer noting the "magical blend of luxury and approachability that makes you want to extend your stay indefinitely."
Coming in at a close second is Chateau Chantal, perched atop a ridge on the Old Mission Peninsula, offering breathtaking vistas of both East and West Grand Traverse Bays. This European-inspired chateau, modeled after grand estates in France's Loire Valley, combines old-world elegance with modern amenities, securing its place as a top contender in the national ranking. With 11 spacious suites and a separate three-bedroom villa, the property caters to couples, families, and groups alike, all while emphasizing its role as a winery first and foremost. The architecture alone is a draw—stone facades, turreted towers, and manicured gardens evoke a sense of timeless romance, making it a popular spot for weddings and elopements.
At Chateau Chantal, the wine experience is elevated to an art form. The on-site winery produces a diverse portfolio, from sparkling wines to bold reds, many of which have garnered medals at international competitions. Guests can embark on guided tours of the cellars, learning about the cool-climate viticulture that thrives in Michigan's unique microclimate, influenced by the moderating effects of Lake Michigan. The tasting room, with its vaulted ceilings and expansive windows, serves as the hub for daily samplings, where knowledgeable sommeliers explain the nuances of each pour. For a more indulgent stay, the chateau offers packages that include sunset jazz concerts on the terrace, cooking classes using estate-grown ingredients, and even helicopter tours over the peninsula's patchwork of vineyards.
Both hotels exemplify why northern Michigan is emerging as a must-visit wine destination. The region, encompassing the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, boasts over 50 wineries, many of which benefit from the area's sandy soils and lake-effect weather, producing grapes that rival those from more established regions. Unlike the crowded scenes in California, Michigan's wine country offers a more intimate, uncrowded vibe, with opportunities for biking along scenic trails, kayaking on crystal-clear bays, and exploring charming towns like Suttons Bay and Traverse City. The recognition of these hotels underscores a broader trend: travelers are seeking authentic, experiential getaways that connect them to the land and its bounty.
Delving deeper into the appeal of the Inn at Black Star Farms, it's worth noting the property's history. Founded in the 1990s by a passionate couple with roots in agriculture, Black Star Farms has grown from a small vineyard into a multifaceted operation that includes a distillery producing brandies and spirits from local fruits. The inn itself was added later, designed to provide an immersive stay that educates guests about sustainable farming practices. For instance, the estate practices organic methods, minimizing chemical use and promoting biodiversity through cover crops and natural pest control. This eco-conscious approach resonates with modern travelers, many of whom prioritize green initiatives. Reviews from the poll highlighted the inn's role in fostering a sense of community—guests often share stories around communal fire pits, bonding over shared bottles of the house Pinot Noir.
Chateau Chantal, on the other hand, brings a touch of international flair to the Midwest. Owned by a family with ties to European winemaking traditions, the chateau was built in the late 1990s and has since become a landmark for its architectural beauty and hospitality. The suites are themed around different wine regions, with decor inspired by Bordeaux, Tuscany, or Provence, adding a whimsical element to the stay. Amenities include a fitness center, hot tubs with vineyard views, and a library stocked with books on oenology. During the winter months, when Michigan's landscapes turn into a snowy wonderland, the chateau offers snowshoeing excursions paired with mulled wine tastings, proving that wine country charm extends year-round.
The national ranking, which pitted these Michigan spots against heavyweights from Oregon's Willamette Valley and New York's Hudson Valley, was determined by thousands of reader votes, focusing on criteria like ambiance, wine integration, service quality, and overall value. It's a testament to how Michigan's wine industry has matured. Once overshadowed by beer and automotive heritage, the state now produces over 3 million gallons of wine annually, with northern Michigan leading the charge. Events like the Traverse City Wine Festival and the annual grape harvest celebrations draw crowds, boosting local economies and putting places like these hotels on the map.
For visitors planning a trip, both properties offer easy access to nearby attractions. From the Inn at Black Star Farms, it's a short drive to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a natural wonder with towering sand dunes and pristine beaches. Chateau Chantal, meanwhile, is conveniently located near downtown Traverse City, known for its vibrant food scene, art galleries, and cherry orchards—Michigan being the cherry capital of the world. Pairing a stay with visits to other wineries, such as Mawby for sparkling wines or 2 Lads for innovative reds, creates a comprehensive wine trail experience.
In conclusion, the crowning of these two northern Michigan hotels as the best in wine country is more than just an award—it's a spotlight on a region that's redefining American viticulture. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, the Inn at Black Star Farms and Chateau Chantal offer unforgettable stays that blend luxury, education, and the simple joy of great wine. As Michigan's wine scene continues to flourish, expect more accolades to follow, inviting the world to discover the unexpected delights of the Great Lakes State. If you're looking to escape the ordinary, book a room and raise a glass to the Midwest's vinous renaissance. (Word count: 1,128)
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