Black Star Farms
Homegrown Passion For Quality
This is Black Star Farms
Our Story
Black Star Farms is a premier winery and estate nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan's Traverse Wine Coast. Family-owned and operated, we pride ourselves on a rich winemaking heritage cultivated over generations. Our passion for creating exceptional wines is deeply personal, with every decision and detail woven into each hand-crafted bottle we produce.
As farmers, we draw our livelihood from the fertile Michigan soil, embracing the challenges and rewards of growing premium grapes in this unique region. As winemakers, we are privileged to capture the essence of our vineyards in every bottle, offering a distinct taste of Northern Michigan's terroir. Our commitment extends beyond just wine—it's about stewardship of the land, ensuring its preservation for future generations to enjoy.
With their breathtaking landscapes, pristine waters, and ideal grape-growing conditions, the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas are more than just our home—they're a place where we find inspiration every day. Here, we cultivate our vines, nurture our families, and celebrate the vibrant beauty of this extraordinary region with every glass.
Our Small & Mighty Team
Kerm and Sallie Campbell
Sherri Fenton
Managing Owner
Lee Lutes
Head Winemaker
Sarah Kosteva
Marketing Director
Chris Lopez
Tasting Room Manager
Kimberly Zacharias
Winery Promotions Coordinator
David Avis
Inn Manager
Danny Simmons
Event Sales Manager
Jill Chumbler
Wine Club Manager
Vladimir Banov
Production Winemaker
John Korycki
Estate Chef
Barbara Guest
Winery Administrator
History Of Black Star Farms
Founded in 1998 by Kerm Campbell and Donald Coe, Black Star Farms began with the purchase of Sport Valley Farm, a 160-acre equestrian estate in Suttons Bay, MI. Recognizing its potential, they transformed the property into a world-class winery and agritourism destination, capturing the beauty of the land and lakeshore. The estate was named after the stylized star (a compass rose) in its grand marble foyer.
The estate’s iconic “Big Red House” along M-22, originally built to high standards, now serves as a luxury inn. Guests enjoy ten elegant rooms, each with a private bath, cable TV, complimentary wine tasting, a bottle of house wine, a hospitality hour, and a gourmet breakfast.
The estate features two winery tasting rooms and production facilities. The original Suttons Bay location, just 12 miles from Traverse City, showcases an elliptical tasting bar in a striking post-and-beam building. Wine club members and Inn guests can enjoy the exclusive Barrel Room for an elevated tasting experience.
The second location, Black Star Farms Old Mission, opened in 2007 along scenic M-37. Housed in a renovated farm market, it features a round bar crafted from nine wine barrels, a cozy fireplace, and a state-of-the-art winemaking facility.
Producing 50+ award-winning wines, ciders, and brandies, Black Star Farms reflects the regional character of northwest Michigan. Their distillery, one of the area’s first, has operated since 1998, crafting fruit brandies that showcase Michigan’s rich agricultural heritage. Sourced from estate vineyards and local growers across Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, their wines and spirits represent the dedication of a skilled winemaking team committed to quality and excellence.
