Rove Estate & Winery: Part of Traverse City’s Iconic Wine Scene

What makes northern Michigan so iconic? One could argue that it’s the 105 miles of “fresh coast” surrounded by countless hiking trails, ski hills, lake life, and the world-renowned Sleeping Bear Dunes. Others would say it’s the dozens of festivals hosted throughout the year including the Cherry Festival, Film Festival, or Polka Festival. Some may say it’s simply the diverse foodie options served by that sweet midwestern hospitality. But, only one thing pairs well with all of these iconic experiences: wine. Rove Estate & Winery in northern Michigan is an absolute staple of all things Traverse City, therefore may be one of the most iconic locations of them all.

IMG_8919 Rove Estate Vineyard & Winery’s architecture mirrors the style of a Michigan ski resort to pay tribute to another one of northern Michigan’s favorite past times. Rove’s comfortable interior, speckled with repurposed wood from retired barn doors allows locals and visitors alike to enjoy peaceful views of some of the most iconic spots as it is perched at the highest point of the Leelanau Peninsula. Guests are able to see the peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, Long Lake, and the back of the dunes while enjoying live music on Fridays, discounts on “Wine-Down-Wednesdays”, or a beautiful sunset on Saturdays where Rove is open until 9pm.

Rove’s wine and ciders can also be shared alongside iconic experiences at home. Whether it be popping the crisp ‘17 Chardonnay to celebrate an engagement or making a Rose cocktail for girls’ night, Rove has an answer for every occasion. Rove’s ‘17 Pinot Blanc is a double-gold award winner that pairs well with any family boating, paddle boarding, or kayaking adventure while Rove’s cinnamon cider and ‘16 Pinot Noir pair with all things Fall!

Having a take-out night for dinner? Grab a bottle of Rove’s fine wine to go with some of Traverse City’s most iconic foods! Rove’s balanced, clean, refreshing wines pair well with everything in town. Winemaker, Creighton Gallagher,Screen Shot 2018-09-06 at 5.13.54 PMfocuses on allowing these northern Michigan grapes to speak for themselves by leaving them alone to ferment without any added sugars or unnecessary manipulation. Therefore, Rove’s 17 different wines have a higher natural acidity that cut through meat options really well and have clean finishes that don’t take away from food flavors. Here are some of Rove’s favorite food pairings in town:

• Rove’s ‘16 Gewurztraminer / Pinot Gris blend paired with a Mama Lu’s taco box
• Rove’s ‘17 Pinot Grigio paired with West End Tavern’s fish & chips
• Rove’s ‘17 Gewurztraminer paired with Georgina’s Pad Thai
• Rove’s ‘17 Sauvignon Blanc paired with a Mary’s Kitchen Port Gobbler
• Rove’s ‘16 Cabernet Franc paired with Blue Tractor’s BBQ Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese
• Rove’s ‘16 Merlot paired with Amical’s Black Bottom Cake
• Rove’s ‘17 Harvest Riesling paired with Moomer’s Apple Crisp ice cream

So, next time you’re on the way to the dunes, headed back from a night of skiing, or looking for a wine for dinner, stop into Rove Estate for Traverse City’s most iconic wine experience. Cheers!

Rove Estate, 7007 E. Traverse Hwy., Traverse City, MI 49684

Jeni Schmidt is the Assistant Tasting Room Manger at Rove Estate. Learn more about the winery at roveestate.com