Chateau Grand Traverse, a celebrated winery in the Grand Traverse Bay area, has made a major move by introducing a new leader to its production team.

After an extensive search drawing attention both locally and nationally, the winery welcomed Virginia Usher as the incoming director of winemaking grand traverse and head of production.

This transition follows the lengthy and revered tenure of Bernd Croissant, who shaped the winery’s style and reputation over more than thirty years.

Usher's appointment signals a moment of change and potential for the region's wine industry.

Usher, whose resume includes a climb from enologist to director at a respected California winery, arrives in Northern Michigan with a reputation for innovation in grape sourcing, and quality-driven production.

She will step into her leadership role ahead of the 2026 harvest, guiding both cellar and production teams, while supporting vineyard operations.

Locals say the appointment comes at a turning point, as Grand Traverse wine country is earning national recognition for its cool-climate varietals and signature events like traverse city wine events hosted throughout the season.

This spring, the region's food and wine calendar is bustling, with tastings, vineyard tours, and wine-paired dinners quickly filling local event spaces.

The arrival of a new director is certain to influence both the flavors in the glass and the ongoing evolution of the area’s vibrant wine culture.

Usher says she was drawn to the Grand Traverse area not just for its agricultural promise, but for its sense of community and the genuine identity emerging around local wines.

She expressed eagerness to balance respect for tradition with modern winemaking approaches.

Winery staff and regulars alike seem optimistic, crediting the decision as a move that could heighten the winery’s profile and bring fresh energy to the region’s already-thriving wine scene.