ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MIDespite economy, wine industry thrives

(12/14/11) - Some may consider the wine making industry as one of Michigan's hidden gems. Despite tough economic times, the trade appears to be holding its own.

The industry has grown in our state from 10 wineries 30 years ago to nearly 90 in 2011.
One of the wineries contributing to the success is the Fenton Winery and Brewery.
   
Owners Ginny and Matt Sherrow turned a passion into a profit.

"We opened this because my husband and I are wine lovers," said Ginny Sherrow.

Matt left his full time job as an engineer to become head operations, while Ginny is in charge of marketing and retail. The couple will celebrate fours years in January, but even they will tell you, there's been a few sour grapes. 

"The beginning was very tough I will admit that, but the last year or so we've see exponential growth."

"We had that passion that kept us going, when the economy crashed we had already gotten to the point in our build out there was really no turning around, " said Matt Sherrow.

In just this year alone, the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council says five new wineries have opened for a total of 89 statewide. That kind of growth can be seen locally in Genesee County, Fenton Winery and Brewery tripled their retail and production space and doubled their staff.

"My husband comes in very early and starts production, everything is made, bottled, cork and labeled."

Troy and Reann McLaughlin of Flushing are big fans of local beer and wine.

"It's a little out of the way for us, but it's worth it," said Reann McLaughlin.

"Michigan has embraced the craft beer and wine market," said Troy McLaughlin.

The Sherrows believe the fruits of their labor are due in large part to the local community that has supported their small business. They have 22 varieties of wine, 12 beers and three homemade sodas.