In 2013, Public Act 100 was signed by Governor Rick Snyder, which allows the Michigan Liquor Control Commission to issue a special permit to small wine makers providing them the opportunity to offer samples and sell wine at Michigan farmers markets.
In 2014, over 20 wineries were approved to offer wine for tasting and sale at farmers markets adding a unique and attractive element to the vast array of local farm products vendors sell at market.
“Farmers markets are an excellent opportunity for smaller wineries to get their products in front of potential customers and build their brands,” said Linda Jones, Executive Director of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council.
Farmers market managers across the state have reported positive responses to the availability of local wines at their markets.
“Flying Otter Winery from Adrian has been a big hit at our market,” explains Sue Trussell, manager of the Brownstown Farmers Market.
Justin Burchett, who manages one of the first markets to offer wine after the law passed, noted “The Gaylord Farmers Market has been very happy with our customers’ response to our local winery offerings.”
The following members of the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) also added wine sales and sampling to their markets in 2014: Fenton Farmers Market, Texas Township Farmers Market, Fulton Street Farmers Market, Lake Leelenau Farmers Market, Sara Hardy Farmers Market, Downtown Marquette Farmers Market, Vantage Point Farmers Market, Northville Farmers Market and Downtown Gaylord Farmers Market.
“As author of this new law, I’m confident that this tool will continue to give greater market access to aspiring entrepreneurs by allowing them to conduct wine tastings and sell their product as many of our fine farmers markets throughout this great state,” said Sen. Geoff Hansen, R-Hart. “Public Act 100 is simply another tool to help Michigan small businesses promote their products to help them build a foundation for a longer, profitable wine industry.”
In recognition of the rapid expansion of wine sales at Michigan farmers markets, the Michigan Farmers Market Conference, will be offering a breakout session on Wednesday, March 11 titled “Wine Sales at Michigan Farmers Markets: Successes and Lessons Learned from the First Season of Implementation”. Attendees will hear from Linda Jones, Director of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, Sharon Martin, Director of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and Emily Beutel, Manager of the Texas Township Farmers Market and Crick Haltom, Manager of the Lawton Ridge Winery.