Decoding the Language of Wine: A Beginner’s Guide to Confident Tasting

Embarking on the journey of wine appreciation can be both exciting and daunting, especially when you’re new to wine and faced with an array of unfamiliar terms. For a new wine drinker eager to feel more confident at tastings or during conversations, understanding the language of wine is key. Words like “terroir,” “mouthfeel,” “body,” and […]

How Aurora Cellars is Redefining Sauvignon Blanc

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Northern Michigan, Aurora Cellars is quietly revolutionizing the way we experience Sauvignon Blanc, offering wine enthusiasts a fresh and unique tasting journey. In the cool-climate terroir of the Leelanau Peninsula, where sunny days marry with crisp, cool nights, Aurora Cellars has crafted a Sauvignon Blanc that rivals those from […]

A Year in the Life of a Michigan Vineyard

Vineyard scenery in the background at Aurora Cellars, Lake Leelanau, MI

Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s picturesque landscapes, a vineyard’s journey through the seasons offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of cool-climate viticulture. From the tranquil dormancy of winter to the vibrant awakening of budburst, each stage plays a crucial role in crafting the unique flavors of Michigan wines. As the vines flourish under […]

From Barrel to Bottle: The Journey of a Wine

Take a closer look at the journey wine takes from the barrel to the bottle. Find out how each step and factor plays a role in creating the flavors and quality you love in your favorite wine. Learn how our Head Winemaker, Drew Perry, uses aging, blending and time to get the perfect flavor. This […]

2024 Harvest Update: Q&A with Vineyard Manager Nick Florip

2024 harvested wine batch at Aurora Cellars, Lake Leelanau, Michigan

2024 HARVEST UPDATE: Q&A WITH VINEYARD MANAGER NICK FLORIP We caught up with our vineyard manager, Nick Florip, to chat about how the 2024 growing season’s shaking out and peek at what the harvest might bring for our vineyards. How has the 2024 season ended up? “It isn’t over yet! Typically, September and October are […]

To Decant or Not To Decant

Decanting wine is an age-old tradition that continues to captivate wine enthusiasts and novices alike. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, decanting serves a crucial purpose in unlocking the full potential of a bottle, allowing flavors to breathe and evolve. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just dipping your toes into the world of wine appreciation, understanding […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]