Traverse Wine Coast wineries -- including several from Leelanau County -- recently won a number of awards in the TEXSOM International Wine Competition, the largest wine contest in the country. Fourteen area wineries captured 66 medals in the invitation-only awards program. The awards included two of the highly coveted “Judges’ Selection” medals, which are only awarded to about five percent of the entries. Those were awarded to Boathouse Vineyards for its Cabernet Franc – 2022, and Verterra Winery for its Riesling Late Harvest – 2022.

Though the area is best known for white wines, Boathouse Vineyards took home the top Judges' Selection Award for a red Cabernet Franc. “The acclaim for our red wines has been growing dramatically,” said Dave Albert, Boathouse Vineyards owner. “It’s great to see a major international wine competition recognize that Leelanau County can produce superb red wines.”

Local wines also received two platinum awards, nine gold awards, 34 silver awards, and 19 bronze awards. “It’s no secret we are producing top-caliber wines in this part of Michigan,” said Sherri Campbell-Fenton, the President of Traverse Wine Coast.

“When we get recognition from independent judges through a blind taste test, it affirms we are giving our customers a carefully crafted wine experience. As we gain recognition on an international scale, we are proud of the positive spotlight that shines on the region and the products we produce.”

Based in Dallas, the TEXSOM Awards has been called the most selective competition in the country by Wine Industry Advisor. Its judging panels include master sommeliers, wine educators, beverage directors, and wine writers.