Our region is home to plenty of wineries and breweries. Last week, Twelve Oaks Vineyard in Carlyle was presented with three awards from the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintner’s Alliance (IGGVA): 2021 Chambourcin Classic – Governor’s Cup for Dessert Wine, 2022 Vignoles – Best of Show, and 2022 Marquette Rosé Dry – Top Award Rosé Wine. Read on to learn more about Illinois winemakers, Twelve Oaks Vineyard, and the work that IGGVA does to promote wineries throughout the state.

Illinois Grapes

While many people consider California “wine country”, the state of Illinois is home to 165 wineries and tasting rooms. There are countless wine trails throughout the state, with a few falling in our region.

Located in our Central region is the Carlyle Lake Wine Trail. This trail features 4 wineries and is the perfect itinerary for an afternoon. The featured wineries are Hidden Lake Winery, Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery, Twelve Oaks Vineyard, and Crooked Creek Winery. http://carlylelakewinetrail.com/wineries

Located in our Eastern region is the Wabash Valley Wine Trail. This trail features wineries in both Southeastern Illinois and Southwestern Indiana. The trail features Berryville Vineyards, Fox Creek Vineyards, Homestead Vineyards, Lasata Winery, and Windy Knoll Winery. https://wvwinetrail.wixsite.com/home/wineries

Illinois wineries often cross-pollinate grapes to create the local flavors you find today. The main varietals are Chambourcin, Seyval, Vignoles, Chardonel, and Vidal Blanc. These are considered “French Hybrids” because winemakers cross-pollinate them with native American vines. Source: https://illinoiswine.com/page/IllinoisGrapes

Twelve Oaks Vineyard

Twelve Oaks Vineyard started in 1996 with Doug and Jodi Palm. The land had been in the family for four generations. They discovered that wild dewberries grew on the property, which inspired Doug to start a winery. Twelve Oaks Vineyard is truly a family affair; since its start, multiple members of the family, including Doug and Jodi’s children, have joined in the wine making process.

Today, Twelve Oaks Vineyard produces over 20 different varieties of wine including Chambourcin, Vignoles, and Rosé. The grapes are produced on two one-acre vineyards. While visiting the vineyard, guests are invited to explore the grounds and walk around the small lake. They also have a tasting room where you can sample the different varieties of wine they have to offer. Enjoy a small bite to eat when you get one of their meat and cheeseboards.

IGGVA

Each year, IGGVA awards Illinois wineries in their annual Illinois State Fair Wine Competition. Since 2019, Twelve Oaks Vineyard has taken home 7 awards.

Along with awards, IGGVA promotes wineries across the state. Their website is the perfect resource to discover your next favorite winery. They also have an app where you can easily keep track of all of the wineries you visit in Illinois.

To learn more, visit their website: https://www.illinoiswine.com/