"Every glass holds a story"
Little did they know, the adventure that Creighton and McKenzie Gallagher embarked upon—crafting a vineyard from their third generation, northern Michigan cherry farm—echoed the intrepid spirits of their Irish ancestors and uncovered a heritage long forgotten. Over three hundred years ago, thousands of Irish fled their native land and spread across the world in what has become widely known as the Flight of the Wild Geese. Many of the Wild Geese went on to become winemakers, establishing what are now some of the most renowned wineries in France, Australia, and the United States. Today, the few who know this piece of history refer to these forgotten Irish craftsman and their ancestors as the “WineGeese.”
The Gallaghers named their winery Rove Winery at the Gallagher Estate, paying homage to the unsung heroes who paved the way for winemakers today, to the generations of immigrants that tilled and shaped our lands, and to all those who dare to dream or sail uncharted seas. With this adventurous spirit in mind, the Gallaghers established not just the region’s highest standards in winemaking, but also its highest vineyard. Perched at an elevation of over 1100 feet, Rove Winery offers a perspective of the Leelanau countryside that’s rarely been appreciated, with stunning views previously hidden from even long-time locals. The year’s stormy weather, the type of grapes on the vine, the leathery hands of the workers that picked each one—these are the things that make up the story of every vintage. Just as every family has its story to tell, so does every glass of wine.
