Look no further than the Southern Illinois Wine Trails for wine lovers planning your next adventure. For both wine enthusiasts and casual tourists, the wineries in the southern IL, which are perfectly located in the center of the Shawnee National Forest, provide an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Read on to find some expert tips on how to enjoy Southern Illinois wine trails. But before you plan your tour, here are some highlights about Southern Illinois Wine Country-
- Southern Illinois has a wide range of wineries and vineyards that offer award-winning wines.
- The wineries offer extraordinary ambiance and mesmerizing views, from rustic barns to modern tasting rooms—you get it all here!
- The rich history and culture of the region are reflected in the architecture and decor of these wineries.
Getting Started & Planning Your Itinerary
To begin this exciting journey, gather your friends or loved ones for a memorable day out or weekend getaway. The Southern Illinois Wine Trails are home to some of the world’s award-winning wineries that promise guests a unique and engaging wine-tasting experience.
More than 12 wineries along the trail offer distinct flavors and ambiance. Planning your itinerary will probably help you make the most of your trail visit. From classic reds to crisp whites, you can find a wine for every palate—just waiting to be discovered!
Want to plan the perfect wine vineyard tour in the Shawnee National Forest? Read our detailed blog post on Southern Illinois wine tasting guide here-
Discover the Best of Southern Illinois: A Weekend Wine Trail Guide to Top Wineries-
Southern Illinois wine tour tips for a memorable experience
- Select any 4-5 wineries to visit in a day, not more. You will have sufficient time to learn about each winery and experience the full tasting session without overwhelming your palate.
- Plan to visit the best wineries in Southern Illinois with a large group. This will help the local wineries better prepare for your visit.
- Do not bring any other alcohol onto the vineyard premises. Better be mindful of all the policies to avoid any penalties.
- Visibly intoxicated guests may not be served wine, as stated by the law, even if they are not driving the vehicle.
- Stay overnight at rental cabins in Illinois and make the most of your visit. You can find many lodging opportunities along the trail, from cabins, hotels, inns, and more to make your visit more fun and enjoyable.
- Enjoy light snacks and drink plenty of water during your winery visits. Many vineyards in Southern Illinois also serve lunch or small snacks such as cheese and crackers. These will help you absorb the wine you are trying.
Keep in mind that little tastes add up. Small snacking throughout the day will help you avoid overindulging.
Visit during the week or the slower season. By doing so, you can enjoy more personalized service at the tasting bar and get more time to enjoy your tour. You may even get to attend a private wine tasting with the winemaker.
Wineries map and route suggestions
Plan your vineyard route ahead of time to make the most of your trip. Get a Southern Illinois wine trail map to help you navigate the area and find the top-rated wineries. Some of the best Southern Illinois vineyards that are worth visiting are-
- Alto Vineyards
- Blue Sky Vineyard
- Hedman Vineyards
- Kite Hills Winery
If you’re short on time, take a winery tour with a reputable local company. Ask them about Southern Illinois wine events to get all the details if interested.
Top 7 Wine tasting tips for beginners
If you’re new to wine tasting, you might find it intimidating to try to recognize the subtle differences between bottles. However, with some guidance, you can develop your palate and appreciate the complex flavors of wine.
Here are 7 easy tips on how to taste wine like a pro-
- When it comes to wine, trust what your nose says. Take time to smell the wine before you take a sip
- Swirl the wine in your glass
- Take a generous sip of the wine
- Notice the wine’s legs, the streaks of liquid that run down the inside of the glass after you swirl it
- Take a sip of water after having your wine
- Pay attention to the sensation of the wine on your tongue.
- Note how the wine changes as it ages
The bottom line
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois is a hidden travel destination waiting to be explored by those who enjoy wine and the outdoors. Whether you want to unwind with a glass of Chambourcin or bask in the beauty of the vineyards, the trails offer a perfect blend of wine, adventure, and relaxation.
So, don’t wait any longer. Head out on the much-awaited wine-tasting vacation and create lifelong memories along the enchanting Shawnee National Forest. With fine wines and picturesque charm, the region invites you to indulge in an unforgettable journey. Plan your Illinois tour now and let the flavors of the trail impress your taste buds!
Recent Comments