Shady Lane Cellars is one of Leelanau Peninsula's most charming wineries, housed in a beautifully restored 1800s fieldstone building that was originally a chicken coop. The rustic-elegant setting perfectly matches the winery's approach to winemaking: respectful of tradition, attentive to detail, and full of character.
The winery has built an excellent reputation for cool-climate varietals, with particular strength in Riesling and Pinot Noir. Their Rieslings span the sweetness spectrum from bone-dry to late harvest, all showing the minerality and acidity that distinguish great Riesling. The Pinot Noir is elegant and expressive, reflecting careful vineyard management and gentle winemaking.
Shady Lane also produces notable Cabernet Franc, Grüner Veltliner, and a popular Rosé that sells out quickly each vintage. The winemaking team takes a minimal-intervention approach, letting the fruit and terroir express themselves with clarity.
The peaceful, tree-lined setting on a quiet back road feels a world away from the bustle of tourist season, making Shady Lane an ideal stop for visitors seeking a more contemplative wine-tasting experience.