May 2024: Wine Month

WHEREAS, Michigan's excellent vineyards and wineries are a key component of our state’s tourism and agricultural industries; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan's wine grape and wine industry has a $6.3 billion economic impact, generating $209 million in tourism spending and creating nearly 47,000 jobs; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan wine production has more than doubled in recent years, with more than 3 million gallons of wine bottled in 2022; and,

WHEREAS, the state’s grape-growing industry dates back to the mid-19th century, and has grown to include over 3,375 acres of wine grapes and over 196 wineries and tasting rooms that welcomed 616,000 tourists in 2022; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan vintners cultivate more than 45 varieties of wine grapes, which allows them to produce a diverse selection of quality wines including reds, whites, rosés, sparkling, and non-alcoholic juices; and,

WHEREAS, we celebrate an industry that has made a conscious effort to create an inclusive and equitable culture with programs like the Michigan Wine Collaborative’s DREAM program, an initiative that provides education and training for underrepresented groups to pursue career opportunities in Michigan’s growing wine industry; and,

WHEREAS, this month, we join with Michigan vintners in support of the “wine in moderation” concept, and encourage adult residents and tourists in Michigan to visit the wineries of our great state and enjoy a glass of Michigan-made wine;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2024 as Wine Month in Michigan.