April 2012: Michigan Wine Month

WHEREAS, Michigan wine sales have outpaced total wine sales for the past 11 years, doubling the Michigan wineries' market share to 6.5 percent; and,

WHEREAS, the state's grape-growing industry dates back to the mid-19th century, and has grown to include 2,000 acres of wine grapes and 91 wineries that welcome more than 1 million visitors throughout the year; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan vintners cultivate a wide variety of grapes, which allows them to produce a sizeable selection of quality wines including reds, whites, blushes and sparkling and non-alcoholic juices; and,

WHEREAS, during this month, we join with Michigan vintners in support of the "wine in moderation" concept, and encourage adult residents and tourists in Michigan to visit the wineries of our great state and enjoy a glass of Pure Michigan-made wine;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Snyder, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2012 as Michigan Wine Month.