Explore the best vineyards and breweries of Southern Illinois, from scenic wine trails to unique beer loops, for a flavorful adventure
Southern Illinois is a first-class destination for those who appreciate fine wine and craft beer. This region is home to an array of wineries and breweries that offer unique experiences, from scenic trails to vibrant tasting rooms. Whether you’re sipping wine by the lake or enjoying acold brew after an outdoor adventure, Southern Illinois is the perfect destination for lovers of fine spirits.
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Sensational Spirits in the Carlyle Lake Region
Southern Illinois is home to an array of wineries and breweries, and the Carlyle Lake region offers some of the most unique options for visitors. Hidden Lake Winery in Aviston, one of the largest wineries in the area, spans 92 acres and features guest cabins, event venues, and a banquet center. The winery sits on land known as “Silent Forest,” tied to local folklore about a bootlegger who produced whiskey there in the early 1900s. Guests can enjoy tastings and even bring their dogs.
Nearby Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery in Carlyle provides a distinctive experience inspired by South African lodges. Founded in 2008, it has grown from a small tasting room into a full-service establishment featuring fruit wines, an open-air bar, banquet facilities, sand volleyball courts, and live entertainment. Visitors can relax with handcrafted wines while enjoying beautiful sunsets.
Meanwhile, Twelve Oaks Vineyard in Carlyle, established in 2015, carries a family legacy spanning four generations. Known for its award-winning wines, the vineyard provides an intimate setting for tastings. Crooked Creek Winery is similarly intimate: situated in Centralia, itis a first-generation winery and horse farm that embraces community and adventure.
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Other Top-of-the-Line Wineries
What started with just three wineries in 1995 has grown to a trail of 12 individual wineries showcasing a variety of award-winning wine styles and unique experiences.
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is a must-see in Southern Illinois, offering a delightful journey through 12 award-winning wineries. Stretching across a 35-mile scenic drive along highways 127 and 51, this trail winds through the stunning Shawnee National Forest. Along the way, visitors can enjoy picturesque picnic spots, peaceful hikes, charming shops, and inviting B&Bs or cabins for a perfect overnight stay.
All 12 award-winning wineries are just a few minutes from each other. Enjoy 12 unique and different wineries on a day trip or spread out over a long weekend. Several of the wineries serve sandwiches to full meals. Most wineries offer picnic areas for you to bring along picnic baskets and enjoy your lunch or snacks with an award-winning southern Illinois wine.
Many of the wineries host special events during the summer and fall, and for those willing to brave the winter, the winter passport program offers exciting incentives to visit during January and February.
As you make your way from winery to winery, take time to explore the nearby small towns, local eateries, unique shops, and various outdoor adventures that await. Each winery along the trail offers its own character and charm, inviting you to cozy up in their tasting rooms and savor the local wines that are produced with pride.
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At Blue Sky Vineyards, enjoy several wine festivals and other events every year and enjoy a visit with alpacas at nearby Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch. The deck at Star View Vineyard has views of the vineyards, Southern Illinois hills and a pond filled with Koi & turtles visitors can feed; and the tasting room has a gift shop and art gallery that displays a collection of photographs and mosaics by local artists.
The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, in Southern Illinois is home to even more fantastic wineries, such as Alto Vineyards, Von Jakob Winery, Honker Hill and Owl Creek Vineyard—all along the trail. For those looking to go off the beaten path, Hogg Hollow Winery, Walker’s Bluff, and Cache River Basin Winery provide additional exceptional wine experiences. There are also several antique shops and orchards along the way, and lodging is available at Blue Sky, the Peach Barn Winery, Von Jakob Winery & Brewery as well as several other inns, cottages and cabin rentals.
A Famous Beer Trail, and Breweries Galore
The Southern Illinois Beer Trail is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts, featuring 21 breweries stretching from Alton to Cobden. The trail is divided into three scenic loops, each offering a unique experience. The Red loop includes popular stops like The Old Bakery Beer, Recess Brewing, Excel Brewing, Peel Brewing Co., 4204 Main Street Brewing, and Old Herald Brewery& Distillery. The Blue loop brings you to Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery, Stubborn German Brewing, Hopskeller Brewing, Lieferbrau Brewery, White Rooster Farmhouse Brewery, and Millpond Brewing. Finally, the Green loop showcases Route 51 Brewing, The Hop Brewery, Big Muddy Brewing, Molly’s Pint Brewpub, Apple Knocker Hard Cider, St. Nicholas Brewing, and St. Nicholas Landmark. With so many fantastic breweries to explore, you’ll want to plan your route and see how many you can visit.
The town of Carbondale, home to Southern Illinois University, is another beer lover’s haven. Nearby boasts a range of top-notch breweries, including Route 51 Brewery, St. Nicholas Brewing Company, and Big Muddy Brewing, each putting forth a distinct take on craft beer and a welcoming atmosphere.
And for a unique beer experience, don’t miss Scratch Brewing Company, a farmhouse brewery located just five miles from the Shawnee National Forest in Ava, Illinois. Recognized by Outside Magazine as one of the top four breweries for foraged beer, Scratch Brewing Company specializes in farmhouse ales brewed with homegrown, locally foraged ingredients. With an ever-rotating selection of flavors enhanced by nettle, elderberry, ginger, dandelion, and more, it’s a perfect stop for those seeking innovation and a beautiful place to enjoy a beer.
A place for beverage enthusiasts
Southern Illinois is, collectively, an incredible blend of wine and beer experiences, making it a prime destination for beverage enthusiasts. From the scenic Shawnee Hills Wine Trail to the diverse Southern Illinois Beer Trail, the region showcases unique local flavors and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at a charming winery or savoring a craft beer at a local brewery, Southern Illinois promises unforgettable moments and a taste of the region’s rich heritage and craftsmanship.
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