How The Type and Size of a Wine Tank Can Impact the Wine

Wine tanks bring together the fusion of artistry, science, and functionality. These pivotal vessels come in an array of sizes and shapes that each bring their distinct impact to the final product. From towering cylindrical tanks to elegant oak barrels, the diversity in design mirrors the intricate nuances of wine itself.  In winemaking, tanks are […]

Exploring the Symbolism and Serenity of The Majestic Willow Tree

In the intricate tapestry of nature, willow trees stand as graceful sentinels, their slender branches swaying in harmony with the whispering winds. Beyond their picturesque appearance, these arboreal wonders hold profound significance that transcends their aesthetic allure. With a rich cultural history and a plethora of ecological benefits, willow trees have woven themselves into the […]

Unveiling the Art of Wine: A Tannin Tale

As we continue to learn more about the different components of wine, there is one important aspect we can’t ignore: the captivating presence of tannins. These compounds, nestled within the grape skins, seeds, and stems, weave a tapestry of flavors and textures that define the very essence of wine. Tannins are the silent architects, shaping […]

Aurora Cellars Comes Out on Top at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition of 2024 in Lake Leelanau, MI

Aurora Cellars was awarded top awards from the annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition this past month. Out of the seven wines submitted, Aurora wines were awarded Best of Class, Double Gold, Gold, three silvers, and a bronze. Earning the title of ‘Best of Class’ for Aurora Cellars is our 2022 Sauvignon Blanc. Best of […]

How The Climate Impacts Alcohol Levels in Wine

Alcohol Levels in Wine Production at Aurora Cellars in Lake Leelanau, MI

In the vast and nuanced world of wines, the climate in which grapes are grown plays a pivotal role in shaping the characteristics of the final elixir in your glass. In this exploration, we delve into the fascinating realm of cool climate versus warm climate growing regions, focusing on a key aspect that often defines […]

2023 Harvest Report

The 2023 Harvest season for Aurora Cellars has officially come to an end. We pressed a lot of fruit this vintage and wanted to share the vintage report.  We caught up with Vineyard Manager Nick Florip to see how the season finished out. A major highlight from this season is that the harvest was picking […]

Uncovering the Secret Technique of The Punch Down

In the world of winemaking, there exists a ritual that is both ancient and revered, a practice as old as the vine itself, yet fundamental to the creation of some of the finest wines on the planet. It’s a ritual that winemakers perform with precision and dedication, often in the quiet solitude of their cellars […]

Premier California Wine Academy Highlights Austrian Varieties Grown on Leelanau Peninsula

One of Aurora Cellars’ staple red wines is our delicious, multi-award winning Blaufränkisch. But, did you know that Blaufränkisch is native to the Austrian wine region – mainly Burgenland – and is the second most popular red variety behind Zweigelt.  Like Austria, Michigan is a cool climate wine growing region. While most of the world’s […]

Discovering Auxerrois: A Hidden Gem in the World of White Wine

Bottle of Aurora Cellars white wine beside a vase with yellow florals in Lake Leelanau, MI  

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque wine regions of Alsace, Luxembourg, and the Leelanau Peninsula, there lies a grape variety that exudes elegance and sophistication: the Auxerrois. This relatively lesser-known but incredibly versatile grape has been quietly producing exceptional wines for generations, capturing the essence of its unique terroir. In this blog, we embark […]

Crushing It: The Impact Whole Cluster Fermentation Has on Wine Flavor

In the world of winemaking, where each grape cluster carries the potential for transformation, there exists a technique that has been quietly shaping the flavors and aromas of some of the most exceptional wines. It’s a technique that involves treating the grape clusters as more than just repositories of juice, but rather as vessels of […]