Andrew Backlin, Head Winemaker and Proprietor at Modales, joins me in the original Modales tasting room for a conversation about Michigan's Red Wine Story. We talk about the evolution of red wine in the state, and how Michigan winemakers are producing red wines with depth, structure, and identity. Andrew is now part owner of Modales and president of the Michigan Wine Collaborative. A cricket joined us during the recording, adding a little extra character to the session. Visit modaleswines.com for more on Andrew’s work. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

Amy Birk, co-owner and winemaker at Domaine Berrien Cellars in Berrien Springs, joins the podcast to talk about Michigan’s red wine story. We explore why red grapes thrive in this region, why Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Lemberger stand out, and how Amy approaches her work as one of the rising leaders in Michigan wine. The first of a three-part series with Michigan winemakers. Reach Amy at domaineberrien.com or email her at winery@domaineberrien.com.

© Steve Salisbury 2026. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.

In this final episode of our four-part series on vineyard care through the seasons, I sit down once again with Mike de Schaaf, Farm Manager at MSU Extension in Benton Harbor. Mike brings a steady, thoughtful approach to vineyard work, and today we explore the fall season and everything leading up to and including harvest. Learn more about MSU’s work at https://www.canr.msu.edu/swmrec/ and explore wine education at lakemichigancollege.edu/wine. © Steve Salisbury. Produced by Steve Salisbury. All rights reserved.