When Grand Traverse Bay Freezes

The moderating micro-climate disappears and fruit crops may get damaged.

See MichWine: It's Not Like 2003

When the Bay freezes, nearby land loses the open water's moderating influence on temperature. Nighttime temperatures can quickly plummet, killing buds for the upcoming growing season.

Craig Cunningham, owner of Cunningham Viticultural Service, told MichWine that vineyard samples from the "cold belt" west of Lake Leelanau showed "100% damage" to Chardonnay, Riesling and Merlot buds. Recording devices in the vineyard indicated temperatures tumbled to lows of -10 to -14 for three consecutive nights.

TCCVB Gives A Quick Rundown Of The Local Beer Options in Traverse City

Mike Norton at the Traverse City Visitors and Convention Bureau gives a rundown on Right Brain Brewery, Shorts, North Peak, and Mackinaw Brewing Company.

See: Speaking of Beer…