Sandhill Crane Vineyards: Community in Every Pour

Tucked in the natural beauty of Grass Lake, Sandhill Crane Vineyards awaits as a community hub that invites people to sit back, relax, enjoy company, enjoy nature and, of course, enjoy wine. Since opening its doors in 2003, this family-founded operation has grown from a modest dream into one of Jackson County’s most beloved gathering spaces; where great food, great drinks, great music and great people come together in harmony.

“I was so excited when a winery opened up in our neighborhood,” recalls Denise Saint Arnault, a University of Michigan professor and longtime supporter. “We were here as soon as they opened and have been regulars ever since.”

Denise and her partner, Deb Rowles, a retired social worker, wove themselves into the fabric of Sandhill Crane’s roots on day one. Volunteering to bottle wine and pluck grapes during harvests in the early days, they helped shape the foundation of what has become an engaging community space for all. Bringing people together is a consistent theme across Sandhill Crane’s efforts. People want to spend their time here. They want to help the winery grow.

Holly Peterson owns and operates Sandhill Crane. She is the expert winemaker behind selections such as Acoustic, a dry Seyval Blanc aged in neutral oak barrels, Lakedaze, a white wine blend with peach, citrus, and tropical flavors and Night of the Living Red, a semi sweet red spiced with cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, orange peel and the “essence of fresh-squeezed zombies.” 

Her philosophy is simple: treat everyone like family, make wine for all tastes.

Everyone’s palette is accounted for, and this approach is no different for events. This philosophy is inspired by the roots that grew the winery. Sandhill Crane Vineyards was founded by a Detroit police officer with a passion for winemaking. In Norman Moffatt’s basement, bushels of grapes purchased from the Eastern Market were used to press the first batches of Sandhill Crane wine. That passion bloomed into a full-scale vineyard committed to sourcing Michigan-grown ingredients, small-batch craftsmanship and continuous care for the wants and needs of the community. Holly Peterson is keeping her family’s dream alive. Her father’s legacy lives on through her, even naming a wine after him – Norm’s Legacy.

 “We make everything in-house,” Holly says. “Apples, blueberries, raspberries, honey – it all comes from right here in Michigan.”

But it’s the people that define the vineyard’s heart.

“There’s a reason we call it our little community center,” Deb says with a smile. From drag brunches and live concerts to art shows and crafting nights, the vineyard offers something for everyone. “You just always feel good when you’re here.”

Hiring local artists, curating interactive shows and demonstrations, hosting brunches and dinners, and partnering with nonprofits like the Jackson County Animal Shelter and Jackson Pride, Sandhill Crane fosters an environment where people from all walks of life can come together and enjoy great refreshments and great company.

Inclusivity isn’t a slogan at Sandhill Crane. Whether you’re a married couple seeking a welcoming space, a music lover chasing the next great local act, or someone simply enjoying a glass by the fire, the atmosphere is always warm, relaxed, and sincere.

That sense of belonging brings exuberant life to the winery’s many events. The annual “Running Between the Vines” race draws hundreds, if not thousands, for an early morning jog through the vines followed by well-earned delicacies. The Friday summer concert series spotlights local musicians and regional talent, providing a great opportunity to catch your favorite musicians or discover new rhythms and melodies. Outdoor seating and fire pits in the yard and on the porch complete the vibe. The vineyard’s famous drag shows regularly sell out, a testament to Sandhill Crane’s commitment to quality experiences that everyone can enjoy.

“We’ve made so many friends here,” says Megan, a regular guest alongside her partner Scott. “We even found the band for our wedding here. That’s the kind of place this is. It becomes a part of your life.”

For Holly, the mission is clear: bring more people together to enjoy art, nature, and wine. 

“We’re this small little winery out in the country, and people say, ‘One of these days I’ll visit.’ But we’re hoping that one of these days is today.”

So come out. Bring your dog. Sip some Solstice. Pair the carrot cake with Annie’s Mapleshine. Catch a concert. Sit by the fire. Make a new friend. At Sandhill Crane Vineyards, there’s always a seat at the table and a story waiting to unfold in every glass.

Visit Sandhill Crane at 4724 Walz Rd. Jackson, Mi 49201 and find the best pairing for you.

sandhillcranevineyards.com