Chateau Chantal - Traverse City, Michigan
N 44° 55.197 W 085° 30.111
16T E 618241 N 4975149
The Begin family, Robert, Nadine and daughter Marie-Chantal, opened the doors of friendly hospitality in 1993 upon the completion of a French style three room B&B, winery and vineyard estates.
Waymark Code: WMC53W
Location: Michigan, United States
Date Posted: 07/26/2011
Views: 7
Perhaps even more interesting than the magical story of winemaking is the history of the Chateau’s founding couple, Robert and Nadine. Their fascinating tale begins with two previous careers of service to others. As a Catholic diocesan priest for 12 years, Robert worked in his home area of Detroit until a decision was made in 1972 to begin again as a businessman heading a construction business. Nadine had taken a similar path by entering the Felician Sisters in 1950. After earning her Master’s Degree in Home Economics and teaching for 22 years, she too made a decision to seek a different life. Married in 1974, the couple followed Robert’s dream of building a European style winery chateau.
While Chateau Chantal was not incorporated until 1991, its history began in December 1983, when Robert and Nadine Begin formed Begin Orchards and purchased 60 acres of cherry orchards on the estate property. Between 1984 and 1991, the Begins cleared much of this land, planted various grapes varieties and purchased additional land. In July 1990, Mr. Begin received a Special Use Permit from the Peninsula Township to operate the Chateau. In June 1991, the Company was incorporated and in 1993 construction of the Chateau was completed.
Focusing on Michigan wines, the chateau produces Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and other varietals.
Winery Size: Large 10,000 to 99,999 Cases
Attached vineyard?: yes
Tasting Room Available?: yes
Days and hours of operation: M-Sa 11h00 - 17h00
Charge for tasting?: 0.00 (listed in local currency)
Tours Available: yes
Cost of Tour: 0.00 (listed in local currency)
Phone #: 231.223.4110
Address:
15900 Rue de Vin
Traverse City, MI 49686
Winery, Wine Cooperative, or Tasting Center's Website: [Web Link]
Types of wines:
Red/White/Rose/Sparkling
Best Wine Tasted: Select Harvest Gewurtztraminer
Rate the Best Wine Tasted: 
Price per Bottle: 9.00 (listed in local currency)
Winery Club: Yes
2nd Best Wine Tasted: Not listed
Rate the 2nd Best Wine Tasted: Not listed
Price per Bottle #2: Not Listed
Wine Club Description:: Not listed
Overall Comments:: Not listed
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