Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Cronenwett Family Farms boasts a rich history that spans over 150 years, proudly operated by its seventh generation. Established in 1865, the farm took a pivotal turn in 1888 when Charles and Frank Stainton, the third-generation owners, planted the first acres of grapes. This decision laid the groundwork for a thriving vineyard. By the early 1900s, the family had expanded their operations to over 100 acres of vineyards, using horses instead of tractors and hand-picking their grapes before packing and shipping them by rail to bustling city markets in Chicago and Detroit. This legacy of dedication and craftsmanship continues to thrive today.
Today, Cronenwett Family Farms tends over 350 acres of grapes, providing grapes to notable partners in Southwest Michigan, including St. Julian. The farm is renowned for its handpicked table grapes, which reflect the family’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition.
“In the 1970s, we planted French hybrid grapes specifically for St. Julian,” shares Bryan Cronenwett. “St. Julian has been a pioneer in the Michigan wine industry, believing in the potential of our wines long before many others did.”
As the farm transitions from its sixth to seventh generation, Mark and Lesley Welburn now steward this historic Michigan legacy. At the heart of their mission is the unwavering commitment to cultivating high-quality grapes, a goal that has remained constant through the years. However, this new era is marked by the incorporation of innovative technology to modernize vineyard operations and enhance profitability amid a continuously evolving agricultural landscape. This blend of tradition and progress exemplifies how the Cronenwett legacy continues to thrive.
“Growing grapes is a way of life for us,” says Bryan. “As most farmers will tell you, it’s not like other jobs. You experience the highs and lows that Mother Nature throws at you—from having the best year ever in 2023 to facing one of the worst years in 2024. It’s hard work, but the reward of producing a beautiful crop is immeasurable. We also truly appreciate the multi-generational teamwork—it builds strong bonds.”
As members of the esteemed Lake Michigan Shore Appellation, the Cronenwett and Welburn family possess a deep appreciation for the region’s unique terroir and its remarkable ability to yield exceptional crops. Over the past three decades, they have witnessed the remarkable evolution of Michigan’s wine industry, with the state now being recognized for increasingly celebrated wines. Today, the Cronenwett family finds themselves at the center of an exciting era in winemaking, seizing the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic industry that is gaining both recognition and acclaim.
“Partnering with a company that has consistently led the sector is truly rewarding,” notes Bryan. “Our family has built lasting relationships with three generations of the Braganini family, and we are eager to further develop this aspect of our business together.”
By shining a light on the dedication of local producers, we enhance the importance of supporting locally sourced ingredients, ultimately strengthening the bond between consumers and the farmers who nourish our communities. Supporting local vineyards and farmers not only enriches our communities today but also plays a crucial role in preserving the region’s vitality for future generations.
At St. Julian, we take pride in upholding this commitment by supporting local farms and producing exceptional wines and juices—a tradition that has been cherished for over a century.
