Montague, MI – The Stoney Ridge Winery origin story is one of passion, perseverance, and community support. Owners Mary Smearman Flanery and her husband, Dale Flanery began their journey in winemaking decades ago, driven by a love for the craft that started in their basement with a simple wine kit. What began as an experimental hobby eventually transformed into a full-fledged winery. ‘I bought me a wine kit for Christmas and I started out in the basement and made some horrible stuff that you couldn’t even tolerate,’ Dale recalled with a laugh. now offering a variety of cold-hardy hybrid and traditional wines that thrive in Michigan’s challenging climate.
From Humble Beginnings to Vineyard Dreams
In 2012, Mary and Dale purchased a small, rundown 18-acre farm in Kent City, MI. Determined to grow their own grapes, they cleared land, installed drainage, and planted their first two acres of vines. Over time, the vineyard expanded to nearly six acres, cultivating seven different grape varieties suited for cold climates, including Marquette, Itasca, La Crescent, and Petite Pearl. These varieties, developed at universities in Minnesota and New York, were chosen for their resilience to the harsh Michigan winters.
While their initial experiments included classic vinifera varieties like Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay, the brutal winter conditions of 2014 and 2015 proved too harsh for those delicate grapes. Learning from experience, they pivoted to cold-hardy hybrids, which could withstand temperatures as low as -35°F. This shift ensured the vineyard’s sustainability and set the foundation for the high-quality wines they produce today. ‘If you’ve got good quality of fruit, you can make good wine. You take care of sanitation and cleanliness, and you protect the wine from oxygen. That’s our main goal,’ Dale explained.
Overcoming Challenges to Build a Community Staple
Winemaking is a long-term commitment that requires patience and precision. By 2016, Mary and Dale secured the necessary federal licensing to begin commercial production. They initially planned to convert an old barn into a tasting room, but structural concerns prevented the necessary zoning changes. Undeterred, they demolished an aging two-story cow barn and built a brand-new timber-frame tasting room, which became the heart of their operation.
Construction was nearly complete in 2017 when Mary fell seriously ill with Leukemia and spent four months in the hospital. Fortunately, she made a full recovery, and their dream remained intact. By early 2020, they were ready to open their doors—just in time for the COVID-19 pandemic to bring the world to a halt. ‘We don’t give up easy,’ Dale said. ‘So we started selling wine curbside, even though nobody had tasted it yet.
The community supported us so much, we were selling three to four cases a week. It was just mind-blowing.’ Instead of giving up, they adapted. Using Facebook and curbside sales, they began selling wine to a community that had yet to taste it. Incredibly, they moved three to four cases a week despite the challenges, a testament to the support of local wine lovers.
Expanding the Experience: Food and More
Recognizing the need to attract visitors, Stoney Ridge Winery introduced food trucks, which significantly boosted wine sales. This success led to the addition of in-house food options, including artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards. Later, a wood-fired pizza oven was introduced, sparking the idea of hiring a professional chef. ‘When our food trucks came in, our wine sales went up by 60%,’ Dale noted. ‘There again, it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that we needed food at this place.’ Today, the winery offers a diverse, high-quality menu that has become a local favorite.
As production increased to 2,000 cases annually, the winery sought to expand beyond its original location. Their search for a second location led them to Montague, where they discovered a charming building with potential.
The welcoming nature of the town, combined with their love for the lakeshore, made it an easy decision to open their second tasting room in 2023. ‘We love the lakeshore,’ Dale shared. ‘We sold our cottage in Baldwin and bought a slip and a boat in Montague. The community has been embracing, and we expected nothing less.’
Looking to the Future
While Stoney Ridge Winery is already a staple in Montague, Mary and Dale continue to innovate. A new brewery is in the works, with plans to introduce craft beer offerings soon, allowing them to offer house-made beer alongside their wines and ciders. The addition of beer aims to attract a broader audience and provide a full-service experience for guests looking to enjoy great food and drinks in a relaxing atmosphere.
With strong community support, a commitment to quality, and a growing reputation for excellence, Stoney Ridge Winery has solidified its place as a destination for wine lovers in West Michigan. As they continue to grow and refine their craft, one thing remains constant—their passion for winemaking and the people who make it all worthwhile.
For those looking to experience handcrafted wines, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming environment, Stoney Ridge Winery is a must-visit destination in Montague.
Address: 8725 Water St, Montague, MI 49437
Hours:
Wednesday 4–8 PM
Thursday 4–8 PM
Friday 12–9 PM
Saturday 12–9 PM
Sunday Closed
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Address: 2255 Indian Lakes Rd NW, Kent City, MI 49330
Hours:
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 12–8 PM
Friday 12–8 PM
Saturday 12–8 PM
Sunday 12–5 PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
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