Wine
When passing near Seymour IN on I-75, I suggest a visit to Chateau de Pique. This is a beautiful winery, brewery, and event center with many surprises. So, it is properly named as in French the name means “castle of curiosity”. Gregg Pardieck, owner, is a former pilot, and started the winery in 2007. The …
For some time now my wife has purchased olive oil from Grovestone in Champaign, IL. Recently we took advantage of an opportunity to attend a cooking class and wine tasting there with a group of wonderful friends. The event was led by Owner, Loui Liagridonis, who was an excellent and enthusiastic host. He educated us …
I always like visiting wineries that provide a unique experience. Although this winery has many of the things that perk my attention, such as a rustic environment, family owned operation, and excellent wines, it is even more unique because it is new and located just outside my home town of Altamont, IL. Barn & Bottle …
My wife and I traveled to Davenport IA to check out an art exhibit, and decided to spend the weekend to see other sites in the Quad Cities area. Of course, if there are wineries around, I’ll find and give them a try. Wide River Winery has a location in Davenport, but they also have …
It’s not beer or wine, but mead. I have tried mead before but not even close to the quality and variety as I I found when my wife and I visited Bootleg Hill Honey Meads. We were fortunate to arrive mid-day when it was slow and we could take time to visit with co-founder, Keene …
I’ve had the opportunity to taste a few Cooper’s Hawk wines at various events in the past , but on a recent trip through Springfield IL my wife and I took time to visit and have an early dinner at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant. The location itself is very classy with separate entrances directly …
When searching online for new wine experiences to check out, the word “Stave” immediately pops off the screen. Fortunately, such a search recently led me to Stave Wine Bar & Market. When you step off the street into Stave, you are walking into a casual yet classy environment that instantly says “wine bar”. The market …
UPDATE – As of Early May 2023, Michael Vandy announced the closure pf Waters Edge Winery & Bistro! If you are looking for a unique wine and fine dining experience, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro in Peoria Heights IL is for you. Opening just a little more than a year ago, this establishment is one …
When I need to make a trip that takes me close by a winery, you can bet I will take the opportunity to visit if possible. Even though it may be a little off my I-55 route in West-Central Illinois, I took time recently to visit Vixen Hill Winery on my way home from St. …
Recently my wife and I had the pleasure to join a group of our dear friends for a private wine tasting at Whisk Coffee & Wine Bar. Whisk is located on the east side of Mahomet, IL just a short distance from I-74. A perfect opportunity for a quick detour or for locals to hang out. …