In Episode 122, we sit down with Michael Wells of Black Fire Winery, located near Tecumseh in Southeast Michigan. Michael is Michigan’s first Black winemaker and brewer, and his journey is as bold as the wines he crafts. We talk about his inspiration, his process, and what it means to break new ground in Michigan’s wine scene. Visit blackfirewinery.com or call the tasting room at 517-424-9232 to learn more.

In Episode 121, we meet Lauren Burns of Tending Tilth, a contract grazier restoring prairie and grasslands across Southwest Michigan. Lauren shares her experience working with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, grazing at Stranger’s Vineyard, and launching her new business focused on meat and hides. Learn how she met Maxx and Sidney through a shepherd in Buchanan, and how her work blends ecology, agriculture, and community. Visit tendingtilth.com or contact Lauren at tendingtilth@gmail.com or 269-888-3945. Follow her new venture on Instagram: @grasssaltandtallow.

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

Anna Rafalski of Granor Farm joins us to talk about Granor Farm, a bold new venture in Michigan’s beverage scene. As General Manager and Beverage Director, Anna curates a wine list featuring Stranger, Mawby, and bigLITTLE, alongside their own spirits: gin, vermouth, rye, and bourbon. We discuss the vision of owners Rob Buono and Liz Cichelli, and how Granor is redefining agritourism through hospitality and craft. For event inquiries, visit granorfarm.com or email events@granorfarm.com. Questions for Anna? anna@granorfarm.com.

© Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved. Photo of Anna Rafalski credited to EE Berger, decolorized by Steve Salisbury.

In Episode 119, Lauren Kniebes joins to explore three standout Pinot Noirs from Dreihart, Poetson and Stranger Wine Co. The conversation highlights Old Shore Vineyard’s southeast and southwest-facing slopes, which contribute to optimal ripening and freshness. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Drew Perry of Simpson Family Estates shares his disciplined approach to vinifera-only winemaking across Aurora Cellars and Good Harbor Vineyards. We discuss production strategy, varietal integrity, and the legacy of Michigan wine. simpsonfamilyestates.com auroracellars.com goodharbor.com drew@simpsonfamilyestates.com © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Today we talk with Matt Killman of Walloon Lake Winery. Known for his deep understanding of hybrid grapes and terroir, Matt shares insights into his winemaking philosophy and the unique character of Walloon Lake. This episode offers a thoughtful look at the artistry behind Michigan wine and the subtle power of place. Learn more at walloonlakewinery.com or contact Matt directly at killmanmatt@gmail.com. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Gottfried Hart of Dreihart Winery is a winemaker whose legacy spans Michigan and Germany. From his family’s vineyards in Eibelstadt to his new tasting room in Three Oaks, Gottfried shares his journey, his winemaking philosophy, and his commitment to dry, complex wines rooted in European tradition. Visit dreihart.6linden.com or contact dreihartwinery@gmail.com for more.

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

In this episode, I sit down with Sean O'Keefe, former winemaker at Mari Vineyards, to explore his approach to winemaking and the stories behind the blends. Learn about the legacy of Teresa Mari, the vision of owners Marty and Olivia Lagina, and the mystery of Row 7. Since recording, Sean has moved on to new ventures, but his voice remains rooted in Michigan soil. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.