I am fortunate enough to be from a little town right in the heart of Southern Illinois wine country. People come from all over the US to visit the Shawnee Wine Trail. I just have to make a short 9-mile drive from my parents' house. Of the many wineries on the Shawnee Wine Trail, Blue Sky is by far the best. The winery itself--modeled after an Italian villa--sits on a hill overlooking the beautiful Southern Illinois landscape. Giant blue and white umbrellas freckle the hillside, and a serene waterfall adds to the amazing ambiance. I have a few pictures of the outdoor scenery, but you can find more by clicking here to visit their website. These pictures were from a wonderful trip back in July of 2009 with some of my favorite Chicks. This particular stop along the wine trail might have contributed to my desire to sing Journey songs while hanging out of my own sunroof.
Those amazing umbrellas!
The beautiful pavilion where I would love to get married someday!
A closer shot where we are all mostly behaving ourselves!
Southern Illinois wine is my favorite for many reasons. I love that is is local, and it is very reasonably priced. Also, it is the only place where I can seem to find my favorite wine--Chambourcin. I love dry wines, especially dry reds. Blue Sky's Chambourcin Reserve is an amazing wine. Another favorite of mine is the Old Red Sangria from Blue Sky. They sell Sangria by the pitcher-full in the summer time. A few summers back, I was able to get a hold of the recipe so I can have a little taste of home here on the East Coast. I can't wait until Macy is here so I can have myself a glass or two out on the porch. I already planning to make a weekend of Winetrailing next summer, so get ready Chicks!
