In this episode of The ROCC Pod, we sit down with Taylor Simpson, co-owner of Michigan By The Bottle, to explore the evolution of a wine-centric community experience that brings together Michigan’s top vineyards under one roof. Taylor shares how the concept began in 2012 as a blog run by two passionate wine lovers and grew into a network of tasting rooms across Southeast Michigan—including locations in Shelby Township, Royal Oak, and Auburn Hills—with a fourth coming soon to Lake Orion.

We discuss what sets Michigan By The Bottle apart: a curated selection from 15 winery partners across the state, giving customers access to wines from every Michigan AVA (American Viticultural Area) without the long drive. Events are central to the experience, from wine and food pairings with winemakers to unexpected offerings like sourdough workshops and Galentine’s gatherings with permanent jewelry. It’s a place where community and curiosity intersect—where wine is the medium, but connection is the goal.

Taylor also breaks down her role in the company. Alongside her brother, she acquired Michigan By The Bottle in partnership with Paul and Geoff Hamelin of Verterra Winery. They’ve modernized the business, revamped the wine club to be fully customizable, and launched member-exclusive perks—like curated trips to Leelanau Peninsula wineries.

We get into Michigan’s unique wine geography, diving into how the 45th parallel and Lake Michigan’s climate make this state ideal for cool-climate varietals. Taylor explains how lake-effect snow insulates vines during harsh winters, helping Michigan produce high-quality grapes that rival well-known European regions. She even introduces us to less common varietals like Blaufränkisch and Grüner Veltliner, showcasing the diversity in Michigan’s wine scene.

The episode wraps on a lighter note with Taylor’s ostrich-riding adventure in South Africa and a fun fishbowl question about naming her dream yacht—spoiler: it’d be something wine-related like Uncorked.

We’re proud to spotlight Taylor and Michigan By The Bottle as a vibrant example of entrepreneurial energy and regional pride, all while raising a glass to local flavor.

Learn more at https://michiganbythebottle.com/

Email: tasting@michiganbythebottle.com

(00:00) - Meet Taylor Simpson
(01:03) - Ostrich Riding in South Africa
(02:18) - Origins of Michigan By The Bottle
(03:56) - Locations & Events
(05:30) - Wine Clubs & Member Trips
(07:21) - Michigan Winery Selection Process
(08:28) - Michigan's Wine Geography Explained
(10:01) - Ice Wine and Upcoming Events
(10:28) - Unique Wines to Try
(12:30) - Royal Oak Chamber Experience
(13:20) - Fishbowl Fun: Name Your Yacht
(14:28) - How to Connect with Michigan By The Bottle

Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/

Connect with our hosts:

Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/

Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/

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