About Us

Welcome to our wine learning center, where we believe that the art of winemaking is more than just a science; it is a sensory journey that tantalizes the palate and delights the soul. We are passionate about sharing our knowledge of the grape, the vine, and the land, to inspire a new generation of wine lovers and connoisseurs.

Our vision is to create a world-class institution that celebrates the history and culture of winemaking, while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the art of viticulture. We believe that wine is more than just a drink; it is a celebration of life, a reflection of our connection to the earth, and a representation of the human spirit.

At our school, we are dedicated to providing a holistic education that encompasses all aspects of the wine industry, from the vineyard to the cellar to the marketplace. We are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, where our students are challenged to push themselves to their limits and achieve their fullest potential.

Our faculty is comprised of industry experts, master sommeliers, and winemakers who are dedicated to passing on their knowledge and experience to the next generation of wine professionals. We believe that the art of winemaking is a lifelong journey, and we are committed to providing our students with the tools and resources they need to continue learning and growing throughout their careers.

We envision a world where every person can appreciate and understand the complexities and nuances of wine, and where the art of winemaking is celebrated and cherished as one of the greatest expressions of human creativity. Join us on this journey, and together we will create a brighter, more vibrant future for the world of wine.

About the Team

Meet Heather

Heather Durham-Birley is a co-founder of the Traverse Wine Institute, bringing a global perspective to wine education while remaining deeply connected to her Northern Michigan’s roots. She holds an MBA in Wine and Spirits Business from Burgundy School of Business in Dijon, France, where she developed a strong foundation in international wine markets, strategy, and brand development.

Currently based in Chicago, Heather works as a Brand Manager for a national wine importer, managing portfolios, supporting distributors, and collaborating closely with producers from renowned and emerging wine regions around the world. She is a WSET Diploma holder and a certified instructor for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), with experience teaching and mentoring students across multiple levels of wine education.

Heather’s passion for wine is fueled by travel, with time spent exploring vineyards, cellars, and wine cultures across the globe. When she is not working or teaching, she can often be found planning her next visit to a wine region or enjoying a thoughtfully chosen bottle with family and friends. She believes that wine education should be both rigorous and welcoming, empowering students to build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong appreciation for wine.

Through the Traverse Wine Institute, Heather is committed to elevating wine education in Northern Michigan while connecting local students to the global wine industry.

Meet McKenzie

McKenzie Gallagher is a prominent figure in the business, farming, and wine industries. Named one of the "Most Influential Women in Northern Michigan" by the Traverse City Record-Eagle, she co-owns Rove Winery, a leading player in the Michigan wine scene. With a background in Sociology and a Master's in Business Administration focusing on strategic management, McKenzie's leadership has earned her the Outstanding Young Alumni award from Davenport University.

Active in the Michigan wine community, McKenzie serves on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Marketing Committee and is a founding board member of the Traverse Wine Coast, promoting the region as a top wine destination globally. Her dedication to sustainability led her to transition her family's cherry farm into a successful vineyard. Since opening Rove Winery in 2016, it has won over 60 awards, establishing a reputation for top-notch winemaking.

McKenzie's passion for wine education shines through interactive workshops and tastings, creating an inclusive space for guests to appreciate wine from vine to glass. Her forward-thinking approach and commitment to quality make her a driving force in the Michigan wine industry, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the field.

Meet Alaina

Alaina Leech is a WSET Diploma graduate and WSET instructor with a passion for bringing global wine regions to life through engaging, accessible education. She specializes in regional deep dives, comparative tastings, and in-depth classes that connect geology, history, and viticulture in a way that resonates with both enthusiasts and professionals. A co-owner of Lake District Wine Co., Alaina draws on years of experience in wine retail and hospitality to bring real-world context into the classroom. She completed her WSET Diploma in January 2025, and her teaching style blends clarity, curiosity, and a genuine love of helping students grow their wine knowledge.