Whereas, Michigan's excellent wines are an important part of the state's agricultural diversity; and,

Whereas, Michigan's grape-growing industry began in the southwestern part of Michigan in the mid-nineteenth century and today has grown to include 50 wineries and 18,000 acres of wine grapes; and,

Whereas, Michigan's vineyards and wineries are important components of the state's agricultural tourism industry, contributing $790 million annually to the state's economy; and,

Whereas, Michigan's four federally recognized viticultural areas, Fennville, the Lake Michigan Shore, the Leelanau Peninsula, and the Old Mission Peninsula, are the result of the moderating influences of Lake Michigan, excellent drainage, and light soil conditions that are similar to conditions in the fine wine regions in Europe; and,

Whereas, Michigan vintners have cultivated a wide variety of grapes that allows them to produce a wide selection of quality wines, many of which have received national and international awards, including reds, whites, blushes, and sparkling and non-alcoholic juices; and,

Whereas, Michigan vintners are supportive of the "wine in moderation" concept and promote the health aspect of wine as well as the idea that wine is a food and should be enjoyed and complemented with other foods; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2008 as Michigan Wine Month.