The notion of a Sunday drive has escaped me for what probably amounts to several years. There has always been something more "productive" to do around the house or just a routine of doing some shopping. Fortunately, I broke the habit about a year ago by taking a leisurely Sunday drive with my wife to the East Michigan shoreline. Our primary destination was the Blue Water Winery, which we had read about in our local newspaper. Although it is a recent start-up, only in its second season of production, the experience was a total delight. The owners, Steve and Connie, were the perfect hosts. Steve gave us an informative 30 minute tour of the vineyards and production area. Connie then served us 5 tastings of their wine in a cozy makeshift tasting area that serves as the crush pad during weekdays. The serving area consisted of two oak wine barrels and a barn wood bar top but that was all that was needed. Their gracious hospitality extended to plates of cheddar cheese and crackers and leftover chocolates from Halloween the night before (no doubt a seasonal benefit). The wines were delightful and the experience made even better by the crisp fall air and the semi-private time we spent with the hosts. We purchased two bottles at $14 each - a Pinot Gris and slightly sweet red called Sunrise Coast.
The Blue Water Winery can be found at 7131 Holverson Road in Carsonville, Michigan and on the web at
bluewaterwinery.com
We followed our tasting experience with a gourmet pizza at Smackwater Jacks in Lexington, Michigan about 7 miles south of the winery. We then proceeded to take the long way home, meandering through pastoral farmlands as the sunset created that beautiful warm glow on red barns and field corn stalks yet unharvested. The day was a complete delight. The Sunday drive is back on my regular agenda.
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