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Shawnee Hills Wine has strong showing at state competition

Shawnee Hills Wines Shine Bright at Illinois State Fair Competition

In a resounding victory for southern Illinois' burgeoning wine industry, producers from the Shawnee Hills American Viticultural Area (AVA) dominated the recent Illinois State Fair Wine Competition, held in Springfield. The event, which drew entries from across the state, showcased the region's growing prowess in viticulture and winemaking, with Shawnee Hills wines claiming a significant portion of the top honors. This strong performance not only highlights the unique terroir of the area but also underscores the dedication of local vintners who have transformed a once-overlooked corner of the Midwest into a respected wine destination.

The competition, an annual highlight organized by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association in partnership with the state fair, featured over 300 entries from more than 50 wineries. Judges, including sommeliers, enologists, and industry experts, evaluated wines based on criteria such as aroma, flavor balance, structure, and overall quality. Categories ranged from dry reds and whites to sweet dessert wines and innovative hybrids, reflecting the diversity of Illinois' grape-growing landscape. This year's judging panel emphasized the importance of regional identity, rewarding wines that authentically captured the essence of their origins.

Shawnee Hills, nestled in the rolling hills between the Mississippi and Ohio rivers, proved to be a standout. The AVA, established in 2006, spans approximately 2,300 square miles across Jackson, Union, Johnson, and Saline counties. Its unique microclimate—characterized by moderate temperatures, well-drained soils, and ample sunlight—has made it ideal for cultivating a variety of grapes, including Norton, Chambourcin, Vignoles, and Traminette. These varieties, often hybrids developed to withstand the Midwest's harsh winters and humid summers, have become the backbone of Illinois' wine production. Unlike the more famous wine regions of California or New York, Shawnee Hills focuses on resilient, fruit-forward wines that appeal to both novice drinkers and connoisseurs seeking something off the beaten path.

Leading the charge was Alto Vineyards, a pioneer in the region with roots dating back to the 1980s. Their 2023 Chambourcin Reserve took home the coveted Best of Show award, praised for its deep ruby color, notes of black cherry and spice, and a smooth, lingering finish. Winemaker Paul Renzaglia, whose family has been instrumental in establishing the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, expressed his elation in a post-competition interview. "This win is a testament to the hard work of our team and the incredible potential of our terroir," Renzaglia said. "We've always believed that southern Illinois can produce world-class wines, and this recognition validates that vision." Alto Vineyards also secured gold medals for their Vignoles and a silver for their Norton, adding to their impressive tally.

Not far behind was Blue Sky Vineyard, known for its picturesque Tuscan-inspired estate overlooking the Shawnee National Forest. Their entry, a 2022 Traminette, earned Best White Wine honors, lauded for its aromatic floral bouquet and crisp acidity that evokes hints of lychee and citrus. Owner Karen Hand described the achievement as a milestone for the winery, which she co-founded with her husband in 2000. "Traminette is one of those grapes that thrives here because of our climate—it's got that Gewürztraminer parentage but with the hardiness we need," Hand explained. "Winning at the state level boosts our visibility and encourages more visitors to explore the trail." Blue Sky also picked up silvers for their Cabernet Franc and a sweet Vignoles dessert wine, further solidifying their reputation.

Other notable performers included Pomona Winery, which specializes in fruit wines made from local apples, peaches, and berries. Their Apple Wine snagged a gold in the fruit wine category, blending tartness with subtle sweetness in a way that judges called "refreshingly innovative." Meanwhile, Owl Creek Vineyard impressed with their Dry Vignoles, earning a double gold for its balanced minerality and vibrant fruit profile. These wins are particularly meaningful for smaller operations like Owl Creek, which rely on the competition to gain exposure in a market dominated by larger producers.

The collective success of Shawnee Hills wines at the fair is no accident. The region has seen exponential growth over the past two decades, thanks in part to collaborative efforts among wineries. The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, comprising 11 wineries, promotes tourism through events like wine festivals, harvest celebrations, and guided tours. This network has turned the area into a weekend getaway spot for Chicagoans and St. Louis residents, drawing over 100,000 visitors annually. Economically, the wine industry contributes millions to the local economy through jobs, agriculture, and hospitality. According to recent studies from the University of Illinois, the state's wine sector supports more than 1,500 jobs and generates upwards of $1 billion in economic impact, with Shawnee Hills playing a pivotal role.

Historically, Illinois' wine story is one of resilience. Grape growing in the state dates back to the 19th century, but Prohibition and subsequent agricultural shifts nearly erased it. The revival began in the 1970s with experimental plantings of French-American hybrids, which proved adaptable to the region's conditions. Shawnee Hills emerged as a leader in this renaissance, earning its AVA status after rigorous petitions demonstrating its distinct soil and climate. Today, the area boasts over 50 vineyards and continues to experiment with new varieties, including European vinifera like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, which are showing promise in protected microclimates.

The state fair competition itself has evolved into a prestigious platform. What started as a modest judging in the 1990s now attracts national attention, with winners often advancing to larger contests like the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. For Shawnee Hills, this year's haul—totaling over 20 medals, including multiple golds and best-in-class awards—represents a high-water mark. It surpasses previous years, where the region typically claimed about 30% of the top prizes, signaling improved quality and consistency.

Industry experts attribute this success to several factors. Advances in viticultural practices, such as precision irrigation and sustainable farming, have elevated grape quality. Many wineries have invested in modern equipment, from stainless steel fermenters to oak barrels imported from France, allowing for more refined winemaking. Education plays a role too; programs at Southern Illinois University offer courses in enology, training the next generation of vintners. Climate change, while posing challenges like erratic weather, has also extended growing seasons in some years, benefiting ripening.

Looking ahead, the wins are expected to fuel further growth. Tourism officials anticipate a surge in visitors to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, especially during the fall harvest season. Wineries are planning special events to celebrate, such as medal tastings and pairing dinners. For consumers, these awards demystify Illinois wines, encouraging them to try local options over imports. As Renzaglia of Alto Vineyards put it, "We're not trying to be Napa Valley; we're proud to be Shawnee Hills, with wines that tell our story."

This triumph also sparks broader conversations about the Midwest's place in American wine culture. Often overshadowed by coastal regions, areas like Shawnee Hills are proving that quality wine can come from unexpected places. With climate-resilient grapes and innovative techniques, Illinois is positioning itself as a leader in hybrid and cold-hardy varietals, potentially influencing trends nationwide.

In the end, the Illinois State Fair Wine Competition serves as more than a contest—it's a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and the land. For Shawnee Hills, this year's strong showing is a beacon of what's possible when passion meets perseverance. As the region continues to evolve, one thing is clear: its wines are not just competing; they're excelling, inviting the world to raise a glass to southern Illinois.

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