A Norway-based television production company came to Traverse City last year in search to find the most beautiful wine regions of the world. The program named Wine First on PBS attempts to find local ingredients that can be matched with local wines to create a food combination prepared by a local chef. Ultimately the program puts the primary emphasis on wine.
The show airs next month on nearly all public television stations around the country, plus it will be picked up on some international stations. Show hosts include sommeliers Liora Levi and Maya Samuelson and they are joined by food enthusiast Yolanda Ano. This was their first visit to northern Michigan and their first deep dive into the wines of the region.
During the show, the hosts tasted wines from Chateau Chantal, Brys Estate, and Black Star Farms. They selected one wine from each location and asked the Executive Chef of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, Auston Minnich, to prepare a meal around the wine using key local ingredients. While in Traverse City, the hosts explored the region by playing in Lake Michigan, walking through cherry orchards, and shopping for local cherry products.
“We were able to showcase this extraordinary region to a huge audience,” said Trevor Tkach. “The hosts knew practically nothing about this area when they first arrived. By the time they left, they had a tremendous appreciation for the beauty of the region and the quality of the wines.”
The public is invited to a free premiere of the show at the State Theatre, on June 14th. Doors will open at 6 p.m. with show time scheduled for 6:30 pm. A panel of local participants will talk about their experience with the production after the showing.
Reserve your tickets here.
