Those who picture Michigan’s Great Lakes may think of swimming, sailing or historic lighthouses.

But they’re also responsible for producing some of the best wines in the nation.

“There are dramatic advantages to Michigan,” said Joel Lichty, owner of Veritas Wine Shop, 211 M.A.C. Ave. “It’s true everywhere in the world that wine is produced in climates that put stress on vines. There’s a saying that good character comes out of difficult conditions, and conditions along the lake are known for producing quality wines.”

October is Michigan Wine Month, which is also one of the prime months for growing grapes for juices and wines across the state.

“Harvest is right now,” said Larry Mawby, owner of L. Mawby vineyards near Traverse City. “Grape harvest starts in southern Michigan early in September, and in this part of the state, the middle or later part of September until November. September and October are the two big harvest months.”

Lichty said Veritas Wine Shop sells more than 800 different wines, and 45 of those are made in the state.

“We have a broad range of things here, including a respectable selection of Michigan wines,” he said.

Hills and unique soils left after the departure of glaciers more than 10,000 years ago have contributed to Michigan’s good grape reputation, Mawby said.

“Combining those with a good number of wine grape growers dedicated to good quality gives us people who are doing a really good job,” he said.

Mawby said the fall season is popular with people who want to have tours of various wineries and taste different wines while the leaves are still changing color.

Linda Jones, executive director of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, said the state’s climate is a major factor in the state’s reputable wine production.

“We can grow certain varieties that can’t be grown in other parts of the Midwest,” she said.

Jones said Michigan is fourth in the nation for grape production, and the state has won various nationwide and worldwide awards for its wine quality.

She said the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council estimates $17 million is made in Michigan wine sales every year in the state, with 20 to 30 percent of those sales coming from tourists.

“Our market is confined primarily to Michigan,” Jones said. “We don’t make enough to sell beyond the border, but because Michigan is such a tourism state, a lot of our visitors enjoy the chance to take Michigan wine home with them as a souvenir.”

With 28 wineries throughout the state, Jones said Michiganians should take advantage of them.

“October is when wineries report the most visitors,” she said. “It makes a great weekend getaway.”