I’m now going to dive into the deep, unexplored pool of knowledge concerning alcohol, the simple two carbon molecule, and its effects on the human body. Many studies have shown that longevity is positively affected by those who have alcohol as part of their diets, the actuaries know this as well, alcohol usage is a […]
As my experience mounts in the quest for a first bottle of Forty-Five North wine, I feel as if I have obtained another degree, perhaps if you will, a Masters of Naivete’. We received our Michigan Liquor License, allowing us to produce wines up to 20% alcohol content. Either brewing beer or distilling spirits requires […]
I’m sure the line, “The Tanks are Coming”, is uttered in German in the movie, “Patton”, by those in the direct onslaught of the American General. However, in this case, even though the tanks are Italian from Prospero and Co., the phrase will remain in English, “The Tanks are Coming” and as I write this, […]
That one Lucky Dude would just happen to be me! First John Peppler found the property, Maynard consulted and gave great encouragement, Doug Matthies designed a state of the art production facility (which is now 98% complete) and planted 15,000 plants, and now, Shawn Walters is Forty-Five North’s winemaker. For those of you attuned to […]
The Great Race Dancesport Dance Contest was held at the Joyce Center on the campus of Notre Dame May 12, 2007. I was most fortunate and took first prize in Bronze II West Coast Swing and American Smooth, i.e, the three dances tango, waltz, and foxtrot. My partners were Cheryl Perry, amateur, and my pro […]
Life is nothing more than a collection of memories, it’s best that they be of the better category. Recently I have experienced two such events, the Taste of Copia Downunder in Napa, CA, and Toast of the Town in Chicago. Such experiences should also be enhanced with addition and presence of both family and friend […]
Is wine a health food? Evidence mounts that it actually is, but one has to be careful in interpreting the scientific data and analyze the chemistry and its biochemical effects. This article is intended to be a primer on the health aspects of wine. Much of the historical history of wine involves the 300-400 year […]
“Northern Vineyard”, an original painting by Mary Fuscaldo of Leelanau County, can now be viewed on the website, and as promised, it depicts the best of Leelanau county and with one look it can transport your memories there instantly. Using the glicee process, Mary reproduces extremely high quality reproductions and they are available at her […]
As previously stated, Maynard Johnston’s credentials and contacts run deep, and he is a part owner and good friend of Scott Harvey, founder of the Scott Harvey Wines of Napa Valley. After sampling some of Northern Michigan’s Rieslings, they are excited about producing a Riesling under the Leelanau Peninsula AVA. And, beyond excited, I, and […]
Forty-Five North Winery is a lifelong Grossnickle dream that has now come of age. Northern Michigan, especially Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties are an exceptionally beautiful area and a special place for the Grossnickle family. We have visited for 45 plus years and have owned a cottage on Little Traverse Lake since 1983. Skiing, hiking, […]