Illinois wines rival those of Napa...and WINE not! Today, from Galena to the tip of Southern Illinois, local vintners are producing a bounty of award-winning wines. But, you needn’t travel far to sample award-winning wines. Just 20 minutes on either side of Effingham, there are wineries producing delicious wines.
It doesn’t matter if you are a neophyte or connoisseur, prefer sweet or dry, reds, whites or blush, Cameo Vineyards and Winery and Vahlings Vineyards make wine you will enjoy.
Cameo Vineyards
400 Mill Road, Greenup, 217-923-9963
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.
Directions: East on I-70 or Rt. 40 to Greenup. Mill Road intersects Cumberland Road just west of downtown Greenup.
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Vahling Vineyards
R.R.1 Box 51, Stewardson, 217-682-5409
Tuesday - Friday: 10am - 6pm.
(May through August) Saturday: 10am - 8pm.
(September through April) Saturday: 10am - 5pm.
Sunday: Noon - 5pm.
Directions: Route 32 North to Road 400 N (Mode Road)
Turn West (left) and travel 1 1/4 Mile
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Cameo Vineyards and Winery, just a 20 minute drive east of Effingham, overlooks the beautiful Embarras River valley. The picturesque site offers just a hint of the pleasures to come! The setting could not be more inviting. The timber of an antique barn from a family farm were used to construct the winery, giving it a burnished warmth, even from the outside. The casual seating and fireplace create a relaxed atmosphere - perfect for enjoying wine and friends.
Sonja and Dan Webb are always on hand to welcome visitors with complimentary tastings, and a generous helping of warmth and hospitality and all the help you could ask for in choosing wines that you will enjoy. Gather around the fireplace with your friends at Cameo Vineyards and Winery and savor your wine choices with a sampling of delicious cheeses and crackers.
To the northeast is Vahling Vineyards. Dennis and Brenda Vahling invite the visitor into their rustic winery with a low-key greeting. “Everyone is a connoisseur here -- you drink what you like.”
In the decade that Dennis has been making wine, he has honed his craft, beginning with sweeter and fruit wines. Today, Vahling Vineyards offers a wide selection of wines from the sweet and fruit wines to delicious full bodied dry reds and delicate whites. The main room at Vahlings Vineyards accommodates parties and receptions.
