In the quiet hills of Southwest Michigan, the Nitz family’s winemaking tradition continues to thrive, spanning over a century. The journey began when Dan Nitz’s great, great, great grandfather left Germany, laying the foundation for what would become one of Michigan’s most renowned vineyards.
A Journey Across Continents
In search of new opportunities, the Nitz family settled in Michigan, bringing with them generations of agricultural expertise. This knowledge would shape their future in winemaking, as they chose their location strategically near the shores of Lake Michigan. “The proximity to Lake Michigan created a perfect microclimate,” explains Dan Nitz. The large body of water moderated the climate, protecting the vineyards from harsh frosts and extending the growing season. This ideal environment allowed the Nitz family to successfully cultivate a variety of crops, including grapes, apples, corn, and stone fruits.
The 42nd Parallel: A Winemaker’s Dream
Nitz Wines is uniquely positioned along the 42nd parallel, a latitude shared with other world-renowned wine regions like Rogue Valley, Finger Lakes, Rias Baixas, Rioja Alto, and Orvieto. This geographical location offers optimal conditions for growing high-quality grapes, with the perfect balance of sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and fertile soil. These elements combine to make Southwest Michigan a prime location for producing exceptional wines.
Generations of Passion and Expertise
More than just a vineyard, Nitz Wines is a testament to over a century of family passion and expertise. Each bottle of wine reflects the agricultural traditions passed down through generations of the Nitz family, while celebrating the unique terroir of Michigan. “Every bottle of our wine reflects the hard work, dedication, and love that goes into creating it,” Nitz says.
The Nitz family continues to honor their German heritage while embracing the distinctive characteristics of Michigan’s climate, ensuring that their wines represent the very best of both worlds.
