This special evening cruise blends breathtaking views of West Grand Traverse Bay with an exploration of how the ground beneath our feet shapes the wines we enjoy in our glasses.
Our guide for the evening is Koffi Kpachavi, co-founder of Wine and Geology Tours and Executive Director of the Grand Traverse Conservation District. With training as a Sommelier, hands-on vineyard experience in Napa and Michigan, and a teaching background that even includes assisting with Stanford’s renowned Terroir: The Geology of Winemaking course, Koffi brings both expertise and passion to the conversation.
During this 90-minute cruise, Koffi will:
+ Illuminate the science of terroir—the soils, rocks, and landscapes that give wine its distinctive character.
+ Compare Michigan’s wine-growing region to others around the world, highlighting what makes our local terroir special.
+ Lead a guided tasting of wines made from the same grape variety but grown in two different regions
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a geology buff, or simply someone who loves learning in unique settings, this cruise offers a rare opportunity to connect Michigan’s natural landscape with the flavors in your glass.