BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — For nearly a century, West Michigan has been the home to some of the most productive and picturesque fruit farms in the Midwest. Lake Michigan’s “lake effect” has sheltered the fruit of our region from the harshness of winter, and farmers in the area have long enjoyed the successes found in raising fruit in the micro-climate.

The area is quickly growing as a prime area for producing many types of wine grapes and experts say it is the perfect place for a vineyard and winery.

This is why owners of 12 Corners Vineyards thought Benton Harbor was the perfect place to plant their business. 12 Corners Vineyards was started by a small group of friends who grew up in Michigan and recognized the uniqueness of a winery only four miles off Michigan’s famed “Gold Coast.”

Boasting one of the largest tasting rooms in Southwest Michigan, 12 Corners’ tasting room rises above the 115-acre estate owners describe as “sublime elegance.”

Two patios overlook the lush vineyards which are planted with both vinifera and hybrid grapes, and an orchard of spry cherry trees add to the estate’s splendor.

Leaders have worked to create a knowledgeable and personable tasting room staff in order to provide guests with the highest standard of customer service and bring a unique experience to wine tasting.

Priding themselves for being an educational facility, guests should expect to learn all there is to know about the 28 award-winning wines on the 12 Corners wine menu. Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay, Traminette, and a gold-medal awarded Vidal blanc Icewine are but a sampling of the varieties offered at 12 Corners.

While enjoying a tasting, a glass, or wine by the bottle, guests are welcome to enjoy any of our planned events throughout the year. From live music to trivia nights to wine with art classes, 12 Corners strives to bring fun and entertainment to the vineyards.

Apart from the tasting room and nestled in the heart of the estate lays another truly unique vineyard experience — an amazing tented event venue. Friends and loved ones savor 12 Corners wine coming directly from the grapes surrounding them as they celebrate weddings, anniversaries, charity fundraisers, and other celebrations.

Located in the heart of Michigan wine country, 12 Corners Vineyards holds excellence as the standard of service and presence in Southwest Michigan. Come spend an afternoon with us, sip a glass of wine, and experience what wine tasting is all about.

12 Corners Vineyards is located at the junction of I-94 and I-196 in Southwest Michigan. The address of the winery and vineyards is 1201 N. Benton Center Road in Benton Harbor. For additional information including seasonal hours of operation, tasting fees and event listings, visit www.12corners.com.