You gotta try Modales Wines

Todd and Kim Kraker, Ron and Cheryl Blouw
From left: Todd and Kim Kraker, Ron and Cheryl Blouw Photo: Urban St./Kim Kraker

When looking for a halfway point between Holland and the Gun Lake area to meet our friends, my husband Todd and I suggested we try Modales Wines. The winery is located in the heart of Fennville’s American Viticulture Area. When we walked in, we were impressed with the modern vibe. Modales has a large bar specifically for wine tasting and then opens to a larger seating area with expansive windows that open to overlook the beautiful vineyards.

My friend, Cheryl and I choose a guided tasting consisting of five samples of their small-batch wines. Our journey started out by trying white wines. Our selections included a 2020 Dry Riesling, Pinot Gris and Sweet Riesling. Next, we moved on to the Red varieties and our selections included a Brut Red and the house favorite, a 2018 Lamastus Red Blend. As my favorite was the Brut Red, I chose to purchase a bottle to enjoy again at a later date night. 

During our tasting we learned from the friendly, knowledgeable tasting room ambassador that Modales Wines opened in July 2019. They currently grow 90% of the grapes needed for their annual yield. Modales offers a Sip & Cellar tour, too, which treats guests to a behind-the-scenes experience of the winery and more. There is also a wine club in which members receive complimentary tasting, bottle discounts and priority access to events. 

From the day Modales opened its doors, many curious wine enthusiasts said that Michigan cannot create a standout, great red wine. Modales Wines’ goal was to change that perspective and make the non-believer into a believer. At the end of our experience, the delicious wines we savored made Cheryl and I believers and converted our spouses to wine connoisseurs, too!

—Kim Kraker, 
accountant at Urban St.

Modales Wines
2128 62nd St., Fennville
269-722-3505
modaleswines.com