Award Winning Shady Lane Cellars For Sale

Nestled amidst the scenic splendor of the Leelanau Peninsula in Northern Michigan, Shady Lane Cellars stands as a beacon of artisanal winemaking and natural beauty. Established in 1987 by a visionary doctor from Grand Rapids, the winery has since evolved into a premier destination, celebrated for its commitment to crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

From its humble beginnings as a 100-year-old fruit farm, Shady Lane Cellars has blossomed into a sprawling 145-acre estate between 3 properties, boasting over 70 acres of meticulously cultivated grapevines.

In 1999, the transformation of a century-old fieldstone chicken coop into an elegant tasting room signaled a new chapter in the winery’s journey, providing visitors with a charming space to discover and savor Shady Lane’s exceptional wines. Further enhancements in 2014 saw the creation of an enchanting outdoor tasting pavilion, offering guests an immersive experience amidst the vineyards’ serene surroundings.

Under the leadership of their award winning winemaker, Shady Lane Cellars has a full team of  trusted employees ensuring it remains a beacon of excellence in the Michigan wine industry.

Central to Shady Lane Cellars’ ethos is a steadfast commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As a proud recipient of certifications from both the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) and Sustainability In Practice (SIP) Certified, the winery adheres to rigorous standards that prioritize responsible farming practices and the preservation of the land’s natural resources.

Beyond its acclaimed wines, Shady Lane Cellars serves as a vibrant hub of community and culture, offering a warm and inviting space for wine enthusiasts to gather, explore, and celebrate. Whether through guided vineyard tours, private events, or weddings set against the backdrop of majestic vineyards, the winery provides an unforgettable experience that fosters a deeper connection to the land and its bounty.

With revenue streams spanning retail sales, wine club, tastings, merchandise, and wholesale distribution, Shady Lane Cellars has established itself as a formidable presence in the Michigan wine market. Furthermore, its commitment to collaboration extends to selling excess grapes to other wineries, further contributing to the region’s vinicultural landscape.

Total Sales: $784,563

FFE: $230,000 (Included in Price)

Inventory: $1,800,000

Real Estate: $5,000,000 (Included in Price)

Reason For Sale:

Owner passed away in 2022 and family wants winery to have a more involved owner to ensure success of the business.

Training & Support:

The winery has an experienced and talented team that manages the winery and will continue with the change of ownership.

Year Established: 1988

Year of Last Acquisition: 2013

Days & Hours of Operation: Varies by Season

Employees: 24

Facilities Information:

145 acres between 3 properties off Shady Lane Road and French Valley.

Potential Growth:

From 2022 to 2023, Shady Lane Cellars increased sales by 25% across all channels. In 2023, total sales budget goals were exceeded, with most expenses remaining under budget. There is significant potential for continued sales growth in the following categories:

• Wine club
• Private events
• Private tastings
• Winery events
• Custom Crush
• Wholesale
• Decreasing cost of goods

Financing/Terms:

Financing through USDA and/or SBA would be suggested.