Local Flavor
Local vineyards think Illinois produce tastes good in liquid form, too
The West Coast has long been the jewel in American winemaking's crown. But if you're in a "what grows together, goes together" mindset--especially now that the Green City Market is back outdoors--consider trying an Illinois wine with your Klug Farms produce.
In 1900, Illinois was the country's fourth-largest wine producer--until Prohibition squashed the industry and grapevines gave way to corn and soybeans. Over a century later we’re back at it, with 80 wineries pressing grapes from more than 200 vineyards.
The grapes are mostly French-American hybrids, with unfamiliar names like Seyval Blanc (a food-friendly white), Chardonel (a full-bodied Seyval-Chardonnay hybrid), and Norton, an indigenous American vine that makes inky reds with cherry and plum notes.
To leave the pairing to the pros, head to Uncommon Ground for the 2007 vintage of the citrusy, off-dry August Hill Seyval Blanc ($34). The Bristol carries Lynfred Winery’s “Vin de City Red” (NV, $31), a jammy, medium-bodied wine that goes nicely with a late-afternoon snack of duck fat fries and charcuterie--though Lynfred's blog swears it’s even better with another local favorite: the Chicago hot dog.
Find a taste of Illinois terroir at these shops:
Sam's Wines & Spirits carries a few dozen Illinois wines from Illinois Cellars, Owl Creek Vineyard, Lynfred Winery, Mary Michelle Winery, and more.
Binny's Beverage Depot has a small but decent selection of wines from Lynfred, Illinois Cellars, and Prairie State, and carries the dessert-friendly Mary Michelle Vidal Ice Wine.
