It's all about gorgeous, secluded, quaint, and charming Northport on this week's Behind the Mitten.

Shhhh.....don't let anyone else in on this secret! Or at least this is what we've heard from locals for years, as they would like to keep their little slice of heaven to themselves if they can.

We can't blame them after a mid-fall visit. Northport is located at the tip of the pinky finger, at the tail end of the Leelanau Peninsula. With a population of about 500 year round, Northport quadruples in size each summer, and welcomes visitors from all over to experience the peaceful quiet and beauty of the peninsula.

We recorded the show at The Mitten Brewing Company in Northport. This Grand Rapids based brewery operates a simple taproom featuring their classic brews year round. Stop in and chat with bartender/manager Dan Frank, not only will he quide you to some excellent liquid, he can also let you know all the cool things to do in the area.

While you are there, be sure to visit our very good friend Paul Penning at The Big Hot Woody-North End, which is his wood-fired pizza cart located on the patio at the brewery. Paulie joins us to talk not just good pizza, but also his long-time friendship with Amy, who used to cook with him in Grand Rapids.

Life-long resident, and great friend, Susan Wilcox Olsen is back on the show, but this time giving true insider tips for the Leelanau Peninsula, from pituresque hikes to new wineries in the area. Her love and passion for Northport shines through.

Finally, we seriously talk wine from the region with THE winemaker from 45 North, Jay Briggs. He shares not just what makes their wine different (think cement aging vessels) but what makes wine from the Leelanau special.

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