Whereas, Michigan’s grape growing industry began in the southwestern part of the state in the mid-nineteenth century, and today has grown to include 40 wineries and an additional 14 tasting rooms located throughout the state; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s fine wines are the result of the moderating influence of Lake Michigan, excellent drainage, and light soil conditions, which are similar to conditions of the fine wine regions of Europe; and,

Whereas, The Michigan wine industry has four federally recognized viticultural areas – Fennville, the Lake Michigan Shore, the Leelanau Peninsula, and the Old Mission Peninsula; and,

Whereas, Michigan vintners have cultivated a wide variety of grapes which allows them to produce a wide selection of quality wines, many of which have received national and international awards, including reds, whites, blushes, and sparkling and non-alcoholic juices; and,

Whereas, Michigan vintners are supportive of the “wine in moderation” concept and promote the health aspect of wine, as well as the idea that wine is a food and should be enjoyed and complemented with other foods; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2004, as Michigan Wine Month.