Discover Good Harbor Vineyards: Michigan's Historic Winery on the Leelanau Peninsula

A Rich Legacy Rooted in the Leelanau Peninsula

The Simpson family first planted their roots on the Leelanau Peninsula in the cherry industry back in the 1950s. It wasn’t until the 1970s when John Simpson sent his son, Bruce Simpson, to the University of California, Davis to learn about viticulture and oenology, that the thought of planting vineyards was considered. Following Bruce’s return, vineyards were planted, and Good Harbor Vineyards was opened in 1980 by Bruce and his wife Debbie. Good Harbor was the fourth winery established on the Leelanau Peninsula, remaining one of four operating wineries until the mid-1990s when several more tasting rooms emerged.

Pioneering the Michigan Wine Industry

Bruce Simpson’s vision extended beyond his vineyards. He co-founded the Leland Business Association and the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association, Michigan's first wine trail, which now boasts almost 30 wineries. He also co-founded the Leland Wine Festival, one of the state's largest and oldest wine festivals. Good Harbor began by producing hybrids and fruit wines, gradually transitioning to vinifera as the industry evolved. Today, their 125 acres of vineyards produce varieties such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Pinot Noir.

The Second Generation: Continuing the Legacy

Good Harbor Vineyards is now owned and operated by siblings Sam and Taylor Simpson. Sam, with a background in viticulture, enology, finance, and economics, and Taylor, with extensive experience in wine sales and marketing, aim to continue their family legacy. Their vision is to provide diverse opportunities for people to enter and thrive in the wine industry, building upon the foundation laid by their grandparents and parents.

Honoring the Founding Fathers

John W. Simpson, the founding father of Harbor Hill Fruit Farms and Good Harbor Vineyards, was an entrepreneur and visionary. He transitioned from a successful construction business in Indianapolis to farming on the Leelanau Peninsula, initially focusing on pears and plums before switching to cherries. John’s entrepreneurial spirit and community focus led to significant contributions, including lobbying for the Leland Harbor and fundraising for the Leland Library and the Leelanau Children’s Center.

Bruce Simpson, John’s eldest son, brought scientific and innovative approaches to agriculture and winemaking after studying at the University of California, Davis. Bruce played a crucial role in promoting Michigan’s wine industry, co-founding the Michigan Grape and Wine Council and the Leelanau Peninsula Vintners Association. He was known for his humility, kindness, and dedication to both his family and community.

Sam Simpson: The Current President

Following his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, Sam Simpson is the current President of Harbor Hill Fruit Farms and Good Harbor Vineyards. With an entrepreneurial spirit from a young age, Sam created Harbor Hill Vineyard Services and the Harbor Hill Mobile Bottling service to support the local wine industry. He continues to innovate and grow the family business while maintaining a strong commitment to the community.

Good Harbor Vineyards and Lake Michigan

The Leelanau Peninsula, located on the 45th parallel, benefits from the moderating influence of Lake Michigan, creating an ideal climate for growing a wide variety of Vitis Vinifera. Good Harbor’s vineyards, situated within five miles of Lake Michigan, enjoy the protective insulating cover of snow in winter and extended warmth in the fall, crucial for grape ripening. John Simpson’s strategic land purchases ensured the vineyards’ success, with high elevation parcels providing optimal conditions for fruit production.

Our Vineyards

• David’s Vineyard: 21.5 acres, less than a mile from Good Harbor Bay, growing varieties such as Gamay, Merlot, Albariño, Pinot Noir, and more.
• Benjamin’s Vineyard: 26 acres, 1.5 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and others.
• Isobel’s Vineyard: 37 acres, 1.68 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and more.
• Norah’s Vineyard: 9 acres, 1.5 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, and Pinot Gris.

Long-term Lease Vineyards

• Price Vineyard: 9 acres, 2 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay.
• Edlin Vineyard: 5.5 acres, 10.75 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Vignoles, Riesling, Chardonnay, and more.
• Zimmerman Vineyard: 3.5 acres, 9.7 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Riesling and Pinot Gris.
• Gill’s Pier: 4 acres, 6 miles from Good Harbor Bay, growing Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Cherry Wine: A Michigan Specialty

Cherry wine, created from fermenting cherries, offers a unique taste experience. Michigan, a top producer of tart cherries, is an ideal location for this beverage. Good Harbor Vineyards’ cherry wine balances sweetness with a tart finish, featuring notes of baking spices. It pairs well with desserts, cheeses, and hearty meats.

Join the Good Harbor Vineyards Family

Good Harbor Vineyards continues to produce high-quality, affordable wines, offering a range of tasting options. Visitors are encouraged to join their wine club for exclusive discounts and become part of a community that values family, tradition, and exceptional wine.