Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant

The Winery that Changed Winemaking in Southwest Michigan

In 1967, winemaking made a radical turn in Southwest Michigan. Tabor Hill Winery’s founder, Len Olson, planted 10 acres of French-American hybrid wine grapes in the rolling hills outside of Buchanan, Michigan. It was among the first wineries in the state to boldly create a vineyard of European vinifera varietals, replacing the native Concord and Niagara grapes used to make sweet wines, grape juice and jellies.

It takes three to four years to produce wines, so when Tabor Hill sold its first bottle in 1971, Michigan’s wine industry changed dramatically. The small winery revolutionized making handcrafted European-style wines. Now, over a half-century later, it is one of the largest wineries in the state, amassing nearly 60 acres and growing more than 80 varieties of wine grapes. Its wine has been served to guests at the White House and thousands of homes nationwide. Taste some of the finest wines in the country right here in Southwest Michigan.

Where Is Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant

Half the fun of going to Tabor Hill is driving through some of the most scenic countryside in Southwest Michigan’s Wine Country. Take I-94 Exit 16, Bridgman and make right-hand turns onto Red Arrow Highway, Lake Street and Hills Road, then turn left on Mt. Tabor Road. Once you arrive, you will know why Southwest Michigan is considered the Napa Valley of the Midwest!

The Story of Families Passionate About Exceptional Wines

When Len Olson launched his fledgling winery in 1979, he recognized the need for a kindred spirit to bring his vision to life — and found one in Rick Moersch, whom he invited to run the winery’s lab. Nearly a decade later, when David and Linda Upton purchased the winery from Olson, they made a key decision that would shape its future: they kept Moersch on as their winemaker.

What united the Uptons and Moersch was more than a love of wine — it was a shared belief in the potential of Michigan’s winemakers and vineyards to create something truly extraordinary. Together, they poured their passion into every bottle, helping to elevate the state’s wine industry.

After David’s passing in 2009, Linda became the sole steward of the winery. When it came time to pass the torch, she chose to sell the original vineyard, winery and restaurant to the Moersch family — confident they would honor and preserve its legacy.

Now part of the Moersch Hospitality Group, Tabor Hill shares the limelight with its sister wineries and tasting rooms. Plan to stop at each unique location — including the Tabor Hill Tasting Room in Bridgman, the Union Pier Tasting Room and the  Round Barn Winery & Estate and Round Barn Brewery and Public House, both located in Baroda.. These tasting tours will make you want to come back for more!

What Wines Does Tabor Hill Make

Tabor Hill wines reflect the unique terroir of the Lake Michigan Shore AVA, similar to the great wine-growing regions of France and Germany. Lake Michigan moderates the climate so wine grapes thrive here and produce wines with vibrant flavors and balanced complexity. Among its iconic wines are Chardonnay, Riesling, Rosé, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. There are also exceptional, rarer vintages such as Grand Mark, Sangiovese, Syrah and Meritage. Its Classic Demi-Sec was even once served at the White House!

Whatever your preference, their wine list for tasting and bringing home your favorite bottles will delight even the most discerning wine connoisseurs. There are sparkling wines, dry whites, dry reds, semi-dry, sweet, fruit and specialty vintages. 

Explore the List

Which Wonderful Experiences Will Bring You Back

“For over 50 years, we've celebrated birthdays, engagements, weddings and anniversaries and, quite simply, life with so many people. Tabor Hill’s legacy continues by serving wines cultivated from the hands that planted the vines, created from ingredients grown in Michigan soil and crafted by people who prefer a hug over a handshake.”

Jenn Wozniak, Director of Marketing at Moersch Hospitality Group 

Attentive Wine Tastings

Whether this is your first time attending a wine tasting or you’ve traveled the world seeking remarkable vintages, you will feel very at home here. Ask any questions and the staff will guide you to enhance your experience. Tabor Hill’s founder Len Olson believed he wasn’t just creating great wines, he was creating great times and it continues today.

Guided Individual Tasting 

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to expand your wine knowledge, this becomes a memorable experience.

• Sample five Tabor Hill wines
• Receive a complimentary stemless wine glass
• Available daily, first come, first served (no reservations required)

Group Tastings in The Cellar 

Make reservations for 10 to 30 guests in The Cellar, a private, intimate setting for an elevated tasting journey. The room is perfect for special occasions or corporate gatherings and the attentive staff will help you discover new favorite wines.

Enjoy a Relaxing Lunch or Dinner 

The Tabor Hill Restaurant, adjacent to the winery, has for decades been an exceptional destination for locals and travelers. Sit inside, or on the deck in warmer weather, overlooking the vineyards where you can watch a sunset that rivals those along Lake Michigan. Or gather around a fireside table where deeper conversations flow and celebratory laughter fills the air. 

The chef crafts dishes with the finest local farm ingredients — each complementing Tabor Hill’s wines. For those who do not enjoy wine, request its sister brewery’s and distillery’s beers, cocktails and spirits. Save room for their delicious desserts or after-dinner beverages.

Watch Tabor Hill’s events for their specialty dinners throughout the year including an Easter Brunch, Farm to Tabor dinner and a Wild Game feast. They will easily become your traditions.

Sip and Hike on Mt. Tabor Trails

Tabor Hill’s vineyards grow in such a gorgeous area it is only natural to share them and the nearby woods with you. With the help of their sponsor Honor Credit Union, the Moresch Group has created almost 3.5 miles of trails that wind their way from Tabor Hill to Round Barn Winery & Estate. Purchase your favorite to-go beverage and food from the tasting room and hike, or snowshoe in winter, along Mt. Tabor Trails. Everyone is welcome, including children (non-alcoholic drinks are available) and leashed pets. You do not need to make reservations and there is no limit to the number of people on the trails. So invite your family, friends and coworkers to spend time with you in this tranquil setting. 

Create Cherished Wedding or Celebration Memories

This is no ordinary venue — it’s where your most treasured life moments become unforgettable. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, anniversary or retirement parties, the staff will help make it special. Your guests will rave about the delicious craft beverages and cuisine, while you bring home extraordinary photos and videos from this lovely setting. 

Hosting a large gathering? The winery hosts will guide you in selecting the perfect private event space and assist in creating a time to remember. From start to finish, you can relax, fill your heart with joy and savor every moment.

Visit Four More Tasting Destinations

Tabor Hill is one of four Moersch Hospitality Group tasting destinations. Each offers a unique experience and vibe that lets you fully relax while trying wines, beers, spirits and food pairings. Include these on your bucket list: 

• Round Barn Winery & Estate, Baroda
• Round Barn Brewery & Public House, Baroda
• Round Barn Tasting Room, Union Pier
• Tabor Hill Winery Tasting Room, Bridgman

Come and have a great time with us in Southwest Michigan! 

Stay Over and Explore the Makers Trail

If you wish to stay a few days immersed in Wine Country, that is possible, too. Round Barn has an Estate House only steps away from its iconic barn and welcomes up to eight guests, or there are over 40 hotels and lodgings just down the road. 

During your stay, visit our other craft wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries on the Makers Trail. From September to the end of April, take the Makers Trail Passport Challenge. The more destinations you check in using the app, the more prizes you can earn. It’s just one more reason to stay over night and plan a return trip.

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