Marc and Elizabeth Huntoon are native Michiganders but had spent most of the first 30 years of their marriage in other states after active duty in the Navy; primarily in Ohio, Minnesota, Virginia and Tennessee. A medical leadership conference, intriguingly held in Traverse City, was the first time the couple had been introduced to the wine growing region here. Contemplating a post career hobby and the draw of family to return to Michigan, they followed up by renting a large cabin for the family Christmas, culminating in an excursion to look at two large parcels suitable for a vineyard. Ultimately, they purchased 85 acres of land on S French road in 2018 and named the farm “Gilchrist” after her mother’s family. The beauty and appropriateness for viticulture of the high southern facing plateau with views of Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan led to plantings of Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. They also selected Lagrein and Teroldego (Italy), along with Albarino (Spain), Blaufränkisch,and Grüner Veltliner (Austria) and several others that had promise in the temperamental Leelanau Peninsula viticultural microclimate. Gilchrist Farm practices regenerative agriculture and is now undertaking the first steps towards all organic inputs, i.e. no herbicides, pesticides, etc. We strive to perpetuate a healthy lifestyle through growing sustainable, nutrient- dense foods and wines for locals and visitors to our region.

Slàinte Mahth (A Gaelic drinking toast)!