Contessa Wine Cellars

Contessa Wine Cellars sits in Coloma, Michigan, with third-generation winemaker Tony Peterson behind the bottles. The place leans into an old-world look without feeling stuffy: an Italian-villa-style tasting room inside, then a large deck and terrace outside with wide views over the Coloma Valley orchards. That outdoor setup is a real part of the visit here, especially for anyone who would rather settle in with a glass or flight than stand at a bar and talk through every pour.

The wine list covers a broad range, from estate-grown Pinot Grigio and Merlot to a Cabernet Franc aged in Hungarian oak and a barrel-select Bordeaux-style blend called Tre Tenores made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Contessa also gives equal space to the sweeter side of Michigan wine country, with bottles like Bianco Bello, Celeste, Lago Rosso, and Dolce Vita, plus 100% blueberry and 100% cherry fruit wines. Tastings are guided and straightforward: five one-ounce pours for a modest fee, or four larger pours as a flight for the deck. Seating is first come, first served, indoor space is limited, and larger groups are better off planning for the patio. Bringing a picnic makes sense here, and dogs are welcome on the deck.