If you’re a wine enthusiast looking for a unique tasting experience, southern Illinois is the perfect destination. With its rolling hills, fertile soil, and ideal climate, the region is home to an array of wineries and vineyards that produce award-winning wines.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, the wineries of Southern Illinois offer a delightful experience that you won’t soon forget.
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Having grown up in southern Illinois, this is an industry I didn’t even realize was a bustling part of the local economy until I reached adult age. After living in a number of other regions and returning to southern Illinois for a visit, I realized what a tourism gem the Southern Illinois Wine Trail was for the region. In addition to the beautiful drive to reach the vineyard areas through the rolling hills of southern Illinois, many of the wineries offer a breathtaking view of the Shawnee Hills once you arrive.
On our recent trip, we took some time to check the wineries of the Shawnee Hills and it was a delightful time!
The landscape of southern Illinois wineries is diverse, with each winery offering its own unique charm and ambiance. From rustic barns to modern tasting rooms, the wineries are nestled in the picturesque countryside, surrounded by lush vineyards. You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Shawnee National Forest, the Mississippi River, and other natural wonders.
The region’s rich history and culture are also reflected in the wineries’ architecture and decor, making for a truly immersive experience. It’s truly has the most untapped tourism potential of the region. Just a short drive from Southern Illinois University (my undergraduate alma mater!), the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail of Southern Illinois offers a perfect spot to unwind and go on a date afternoon, if you’re in the region visiting college students or attending an event at the university.
Gifts for Wine Lovers
If you’re looking for a gift to give a wine longer to bring on your wine tasting adventure or to use after you return home with your favorite bottles of wine, here are some fun ideas.
Found in photo:
Funny Wine Charms / Wine Saver / Wine Stopper / Wine Coaster / Wine Aerator
Wine Glasses / Drink Markers / Appetizer Trays
Southern Illinois Wine Country Highlights
- Southern Illinois is home to a variety of wineries and vineyards that produce award-winning wines.
- The wineries offer a diverse range of ambiance and views, from rustic barns to modern tasting rooms.
- The region’s rich history and culture are reflected in the wineries’ architecture and decor.
The Landscape of Southern Illinois Wineries
One of the things that sets Southern Illinois wineries apart from other winery locations is their proximity to the Shawnee National Forest. The region is home to a number of vineyards and wineries that produce a wide variety of wines. The forest provides a stunning backdrop for the vineyards and wineries, making for a truly unique experience. Visitors can take in the beauty of the forest while sipping on some of the region’s finest wines.
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a must-visit for wine lovers. The trail is home to a number of wineries, each with its own unique charm. Visitors can take a leisurely drive along the trail, stopping at wineries along the way to sample their wines. The trail is also known for its scenic views, which include rolling hills and lush vineyards.
Southern Illinois wineries are known for their beautiful landscapes, which feature rolling hills and lush vineyards. The region’s unique climate and soil make it ideal for growing grapes, and the vineyards take full advantage of this. Visitors can take a stroll through the vineyards, taking in the sights and smells of the grapes as they ripen on the vine.
Prominent Wineries and Vineyards
If you’re up for a wine-tasting adventure, here are some of the most prominent wineries and vineyards in Southern Illinois that you should check out:
Feather Hills Vineyard & Winery
This was my favorite spot on the tour! We stopped in for some appetizers and the food was delicious. My husband tried the Saluki Dunkel Dog dark amber ale and he said it had a great flavor.
They even had a selection of wine bottles with Salukis on them, a nod to the local university mascot.
There are cabins on the grounds and the interior of the winery had a lodge feel.
It’s a beautiful location and was relatively easy to get to following the GPS mapping system.
Alto Vineyards and Alto Pass
Alto Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in Southern Illinois, and it has been producing award-winning wines for over 30 years. The vineyard is located in Alto Pass, and it offers a stunning view of the Shawnee National Forest.
You can taste some of their best wines, including Chambourcin and Traminette, while enjoying the scenic beauty. The Renzaglia family has built a reputation of being a leader in the southern Illinois wine industry.
Pomona Winery
Pomona Winery is a small family-owned winery located in Pomona. They produce a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Their signature wine, Pomona Red, is a must-try. The winery also has a beautiful outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your wine while basking in the sun.
Blue Sky Vineyard
Blue Sky Vineyard is a picturesque vineyard located in Makanda. The vineyard has won several awards for its wines, including the prestigious Governor’s Cup. The grounds are unique and the building has a beautiful Tuscany flair.
Their wines are made from locally grown grapes, and they offer a wide range of varietals, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The vineyard also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal with your wine.
Starview Vineyards
Starview Vineyards is a family-owned vineyard located in Cobden. They grow several grape varieties, including Chardonel, Norton, and Vignoles. Their wines are made in small batches, and they offer a unique taste that you won’t find anywhere else.
The vineyard also has a beautiful outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your wine while taking in the breathtaking view.
Honker Hill Winery
Honker Hill Winery is a charming family-owned winery located in Southern Illinois. The winery is known for its picturesque vineyards, welcoming atmosphere, and delightful selection of wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyards, and special events hosted by the winery. Honker Hill Winery takes pride in producing high-quality wines that capture the unique terroir of the region. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Honker Hill Winery offers a delightful experience for all.
Owl Creek Vineyard
Owl Creek Vineyard is a well-regarded winery nestled in the scenic Southern Illinois region. The vineyard is known for its serene setting, expansive vineyards, and exceptional wines. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, take leisurely strolls through the vineyards, and partake in events and gatherings hosted by the winery.
Owl Creek Vineyard is dedicated to producing a diverse range of high-quality wines that showcase the unique characteristics of the area’s distinctive character.
Kite Hill Vineyards
Only a 10 minute drive from Southern Illinois University, Kite Hill Vineyards is a unique location that caters to not just wine trail visitors but also university students and alumni. Their tasting room is open most afternoons to sample a selection of wines, some of which like the Aeronaut and Flyaway Rose, have won many awards in wine competitions.
Hickory Ridge Vineyard
Located on the western edge of the Shawnee Wine Trail in Pomona, Hickory Ridge Vineyard serves wines made from grapes solely grown on the vineyard premises. They are known for their dry wines and white wines.
Southern Illinois has a lot to offer when it comes to wineries and vineyards. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out, these prominent wineries and vineyards are definitely worth a visit.
Honker Hill Winery
Honker Hill is a unique local winery that is close to Carbondale and an easy drive from the university. It is popular with locals and has an open area that is perfect for parties.
Wine Tasting and Tours
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Southern Illinois, consider visiting one of the many wineries in the area. Wine tasting and tours are a great way to explore the region’s rich viticulture history and sample some of the best wines in the country. Most wineries in Southern Illinois offer tastings in their tasting rooms. These rooms are designed to give you a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to sample the winery’s offerings. You’ll typically be able to try a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites
A guided vineyard tour can help you to learn more about the winemaking process along the Shawnee Wine Trail These tours typically include a walk through the vineyards, where you’ll learn about the different grape varieties, growing conditions, and harvesting techniques. You’ll also get to see the winery’s production facilities and learn about the winemaking process from start to finish.
The winemaking process begins in the vineyard. The grapes are carefully tended to throughout the growing season, and are harvested when they are at their peak ripeness. Once the grapes are harvested, they are sorted, destemmed, and crushed. The juice is then fermented in barrels or tanks, where it is aged and blended to create the final product.
Winemakers in Southern Illinois use traditional, hand-crafted techniques to produce wines that are unique and flavorful. This includes hand-picking grapes, crushing them by hand, and fermenting them in small batches. These techniques help to preserve the quality and flavor of the grapes, resulting in wines that are rich and complex.
Wine Festivals and Community Gatherings
Southern Illinois is home to several wine festivals and community gatherings throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to taste wines from multiple wineries in one location, as well as enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and other activities. Some popular wine festivals in Southern Illinois include the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Festival and the Southern Illinois Wine and Art Festival.
Many wineries in Southern Illinois offer live music on weekends and during special events. You can enjoy a glass of wine while listening to local musicians play a variety of genres, from blues to country to rock. Some wineries also host festivals that feature multiple bands, food vendors, and other activities like wine and food pairings, cooking classes, painting classes, and more.
Accommodations and Amenities
If you’re planning a visit to Southern Illinois wineries, you’ll be pleased to know that many of them offer more than just wine tastings. There are many accommodations and amenities to enjoy the scenic countryside and have a great time.
Cabins and Suites
Several wineries in Southern Illinois offer on-site accommodations, ranging from cozy cabins to luxurious suites. These accommodations often come equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and fully equipped kitchens. Some wineries even offer pet-friendly accommodations, so you can bring your furry friend along for the trip.
Outdoor Patio Spaces
Many Southern Illinois wineries offer outdoor patio spaces with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. These spaces are perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine and enjoying the scenery. Some wineries even offer live music and other entertainment on their patios during the summer months.
The History of Winemaking in Southern Illinois
Southern Illinois has a rich history of winemaking that dates back to the early 1800s. The region’s fertile soil and favorable climate have made it an ideal location for growing grapes and producing high-quality wines. In this section, you will explore the early beginnings of winemaking in Southern Illinois, the growth and recognition of the industry, and the influence of Italian heritage on the region’s winemaking.
Early Beginnings
The first winery in Southern Illinois was established in the early 1800s by French settlers who brought their winemaking traditions with them. They planted vines and produced wines for their own consumption and for sale. The industry grew slowly over the years, and by the mid-1800s, there were several small wineries in the region. However, the industry suffered a setback during the prohibition era, which lasted from 1920 to 1933.
Growth and Recognition
After prohibition, the winemaking industry in Southern Illinois slowly began to recover. In the 1960s, a few wineries were established, and the industry began to gain recognition. Today, there are over 100 wineries in the region, producing a wide variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Many of these wineries have won national awards for their wines, putting Southern Illinois on the map as a top wine-producing region in the United States.
Influence of Italian Heritage
The influence of Italian heritage on winemaking in Southern Illinois cannot be overstated. Many of the early winemakers in the region were Italian immigrants who brought with them their winemaking traditions. Today, many of the wineries in the region are still owned and operated by Italian families, and Italian grape varieties such as Sangiovese and Barbera are commonly grown. The romance of Italy can be felt throughout the region, from the vineyards to the tasting rooms, making a visit to a Southern Illinois winery a truly unique experience.
The history of winemaking in Southern Illinois is a rich and fascinating one. From its early beginnings to its growth and recognition, the industry has played an important role in the region’s history and economy. The influence of Italian heritage can be seen and tasted throughout the region, making Southern Illinois a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Visiting Southern Illinois Wineries
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway in Southern Illinois, visiting the local wineries is a must. With stunning views, delicious wines, and charming tasting rooms, Southern Illinois wineries offer a unique experience for wine lovers and tourists alike.
Planning Your Trip
Before you head out to the wineries, it’s important to pick which wineries you would like to head to first, to plan your order of visits. Most of the wineries are located in Makanda, Cobden, and just south of Carbondale, so it’s best to find a centrally located hotel or bed and breakfast if you’ll be visiting from out of town.
You can also check the winery websites for information on hours, tastings, and events. Some wineries require reservations for tastings, so it’s best to call ahead.
Local Attractions and Dining
While you’re in Southern Illinois, take some time to explore the local attractions and dining options. The Shawnee National Forest offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views. You can also visit the Giant City State Park or the Little Grand Canyon. As for dining, there are plenty of local restaurants that offer farm-to-table cuisine and Southern hospitality.
Wineries Map and Route Suggestions
To make the most of your trip, it’s a good idea to plan your winery route ahead of time. You can use a winery map to help you navigate the area and find the best wineries. Some of the best wineries to visit in Southern Illinois include Feather Hills Winery, Alto Vineyards, Blue Sky Vineyard, and StarView Vineyards. If you’re short on time, you can also take a winery tour with a local company.
Find the most up to date Shawnee Wine Trail Map HERE.
Overall, Southern Illinois wineries offer a unique and memorable experience for wine lovers and tourists. With stunning views, delicious wines, and charming tasting rooms, it’s no wonder that the region has become a hotspot for tourism. So, plan your trip, explore the local attractions and dining, and enjoy the best wineries that Southern Illinois has to offer.
** All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. Being Mommy with Style is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
