Producer Article

Bel Lago Vineyard

Last edited on 9/26/2023 by Jim Naum
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At Bel Lago, we grow more than 100 varieties on 37 acres; selecting varieties that favor cool climates and express our rich soils. In addition to popular vinifera varieties including Blaufrankisch, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Gewurztraminer and Riesling, we also grow rare varieties like Auxerrois and Siegerrebe among many others. In addition to wine, we also produce a variety of hard ciders, including Raspberry, Watermelon, Slim Crickets, Siegerrebe, Cherry as well as our signature low alcohol wine seltzer.

Bel Lago’s winemaking team of Charlie Edson, Blake Lougheed and Kyle Leppek carefully craft bright, crisp white wines and deep, complex reds through a patient and detail-oriented process. One of Bel Lago’s defining characteristics is our special focus on the extended barrel aging of certain varieties. We produce between 17-20,000 cases a year for ourselves and several other custom clients. The Bel Lago vineyards have been lovingly cared for by both Dr. Charles Edson and The Moreno Family since they were planted. Tomas Moreno Jr. took over primary vineyard management that was held by his father, the late Tomas Moreno Sr. and continues to lead a devoted, knowledgeable crew of full-time employees.

Our winemaking season begins in late July, early August when we press approximately 150 tons of cherries. Our grape harvest, overseen by our vineyard manager Tomas Moreno, Jr., begins in mid-September and runs through October. Depending on the growing season, we press between 125-150 tons of grapes each harvest.

Throughout the years, Bel Lago’s emphasis has always been on quality, with an unwavering commitment to excellence. As farmers and winemakers, we firmly believe the old adage that the “wine is made in the vineyard.”

Established in 1997. Settled atop a hill and encompassed by lush vineyards, Bel Lago Winery’s tasting room features a one-of-a-kind panoramic view of South Lake Leelanau. Grown with a deep respect for and devotion to Leelanau Peninsula, our wines reflect the soil and climate of our beautiful location. For nearly three decades, our emphasis at Bel Lago has been on producing quality wines and cider with an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Beautiful Lake … Bel Lago wines are made from grapes grown in family-owned vineyards overlooking Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan. Surrounded by a Pinot Grigio vineyard, Bel Lago Winery features a tasting room with a panoramic view of the beautiful southern end of Lake Leelanau.

Source: About Bel Lago Winery
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