Dan and Lucie Matthies, together with their son Doug, began their winemaking adventure in 1989 when horticulture expert Dr. G Stanley Howell from MSU visited their land and was impressed by the topography, slope and aspect of the land. Southern-facing slopes, temperature buffering from the lakes, and perfect soil pH combined for excellent grape-growing conditions.

Planting their first vineyard by hand, those Chardonnay grapes became the anchor of the vineyards and the shoulder on which the rest of the farm rested. Followed quickly by Pinot Gris and Riesling, they rounded out their plantings with an additional 13 varietals, including Viognier, Auxerrois, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Their farm now includes three distinct vineyards across 75 acres, each with its own carefully selected varietals to maximize the potential of each variety.

In 2000, they opened their tasting room. Accolades quickly followed from wine competitions across the US, including Best of Class, Best White Wine and innumerable Double Golds and Golds, a tradition that continues today.

In 2025, their son Doug and his wife, Laura, took over Chateau Fontaine. Actively involved in the winemaking at Chateau Fontaine through their own French Road Cellars since 2009, they’ve enjoyed getting to learn the retail side of Northern Michigan winemaking, and look forward to providing the exceptional experience customers have come to expect at Chateau Fontaine.

The Leelanau Peninsula AVA is known for creating unique, delicious wines of all varieties, and Chateau Fontaine is proud to have been a part of the community of Leelanau County winemakers for over 20 years. Come visit us and experience what Chateau Fontaine and the Leelanau Peninsula have to offer.

Hours

Jan 1st - May 1st: Thursday - Sunday 12-5

May 1st - Nov 1st: Everyday 12-6

Nov 1-Dec 31: Hours will vary, see website

Contact

2290 South French Road
Lake Leelanau, Michigan 49653

Phone: 231-256-0000

Email: info@chateaufontaine.com

Website: https://www.chateaufontaine.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chateaufontainewinery

Instagram: www.instagram.com/chateau_fontaine