Cameo Vineyards, Greenup IL
I bet you thought the name Cameo Vineyards is derived from a particular style of broach or jewelry, but don’t be fooled. It actually refers to a 1955 Chevy Cameo pickup truck. Cameo Vineyards has been around since 1991 and is one of the oldest wineries in Illinois, being the 25th.
Cameo Vineyards is located in Greenup, IL. Although there are vineyards on-site, additional vineyards are located south of Effingham IL. Owner, Dan Webb, says that part of the vineyards at their location in Greenup are in the process of being replanted. Some of the many varieties produced include Cayuga, Chardonel, Villard Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Norton, Chambourcin, and Chancellor (sourced). Some of the other fruits used in production are sourced from around Illinois and Michigan.
During my recent visit I tasted the following wines. The descriptions are from the winery.
- Canoe – Fruity dry white wine with notes of green apple.
- River’s Edge – Dry full-bodied red with light vanilla oak. (one of my favorites)
- 2016 Norton – New Release; Dry red wine with cherry notes (one of my favorites)
- Red, White, and Blue – Soft red wine with blueberry finish.
- Pink Catawba – Try this pretty pink wine. Not too dry, not too sweet.
Now if you are interested in a very fun wine to try, you will need to wait until November 1, 2019 for the return of Cameo’s Blizzard in a Bottle. This limited production wine is great for the holidays. see the short clip below.
Stop by for a tasting, relax, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Cameo Vineyards does not hold special events, have regular entertainment, or cater to other activities. They pride themselves on being a winery above all else.