Geoff is a graduate of Indiana University and Washington State University Enology program and is Co-Owner and General Manager of Verterra Winery.  Geoff is a 9th generation farmer in Michigan and he resides on the Swede Vineyard with his wife Megan and two children.  Prior to starting Verterra Winery, Mr. Hamelin was a global consultant for Accenture and IBM for over 20 years.  Geoff is also the current President of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail representing 21 wineries in the Leelanau AVA.  

Geoff Hamelin

Co-Owner, General Manager

Paul Hamelin grew up in Lansing, Michigan and vacationed in the Leelanau Peninsula as a child in the late 60’s.  After graduating from Michigan State University, he earned a Pharmacy degree from Ferris State University in 1980.  Paul’s professional carrier spanned over 30 years in the Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology industry. He worked for several Fortune 100 global companies such as Eli Lilly, Abbott, Searle, and Pfizer living both domestically and internationally at various times in his career.  From 2001-2011 Paul was the CEO of two US biotech companies.

After collecting wines and visiting wine regions around the world, with his wife Marty who he has been married to for 47 years, decided to devote their passion for wine by creating a new winery in the Leelanau peninsula, Michigan, where they had vacationed for decades.  Paul and Marty’s son Geoff is Co-owner and General Manager of the winery, he has been an integral part of founding the company from the beginning. In addition, another son Ryan and 9 other family members also have contributed their passion and creativity to the winery in different capacities. 

Paul Hamelin

Winemaker

Verterra was established in 2006 and we craft wines that capture the essence of the Leelanau Peninsula AVA in Michigan.  Estate vineyards are nestled on a peninsula along the 45th parallel surrounded by the beautiful blue waters of Lake Michigan. At Verterra, meaning 'true to the land,' we believe that outstanding wines begin in the vineyard. From meticulously chosen elevated vineyard sites to the careful selection of vinifera clones to sustainable vineyard practices, we ensure that each grape embodies the uniqueness of our region.  Our collection of elegant reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines showcases the richness and diversity of our vineyards, reflecting the true essence of the Leelanau Peninsula.

Verterra Winery

United States

Winemakers

Geoff Hamelin

Co-Owner, General Manager

Paul Hamelin

Winemaker