Self-described “wine enthusiast” Mike Blaga has traveled to California’s famed Napa Valley to indulge his passion for vino.

But earlier this month, the Royal Oak resident was immersed in a different picturesque locale with lush vineyards and crystalline waters: the northwestern Lower Peninsula, Michigan’s own wine country.

“They’re delicious wines … very high quality. I think the quality has improved over the last decade,” said Blaga as he sampled offerings at Leelanau Cellars in Omena. “It’s a ‘staycation,’ almost. I think this is my favorite area of Michigan.”

For cash-strapped Michiganders, finding exceptional wines is as easy as hitting I-75 on a single tank of gas, with the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula wine trails just minutes apart in the greater Traverse City area. (continue reading on candgnews.com)

Photo credit: Silver Leaf 2 by lpwines