If you are anything like me, even the thought of snow has you dreaming of grabbing your favorite hoodie and snuggling up on the couch with endless episodes on Netflix. This year I am trying to crush my winter blues (and fear of driving in the snow) but it is going to take some strong wine influence. After a little research I found that the Illinois wine industry has provided quite a few great excuses to ditch the couch…

Winter Passport Program – Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
January 14-February 28, 2017
Right now restaurants all across the state of Illinois are preparing to start Restaurant Weeks showcasing their dishes. This Winter Passport Program is exactly the same but rather than focusing on dishes it is introducing visitors to wineries and wine specials on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Website – Facebook Event Page

Vonjakobville Tropical Festival
January 28, 2017 ~ 2:00-6:00pm
I am not sure about you but in January I start to crave some sunlight so this wine fest seems like the perfect “getaway”. Dress for a tropical vacation because the delicious wine and live music from The Boat Drunks are going to take you away.

Von Jakob Winery & Brewery, 230 Hwy 127, Alto Pass, IL
Website  – Facebook Event Page

Utica Winter Wine Walk
February 11, 2017 ~ 11:00am-5:00pm
This event sold out last year! Walk the picturesque town of Utica while you sample wine from over eight different Illinois wineries. The Utica Winter Wine Walk is the perfect excuse for a girls’ weekend or grab your Valentine for an early celebration.

North Utica, 208 S. Clark Street, North Utica, IL
Website – Facebook Event Page

Winter Wine Festival
February 27, 2017
It is not every day you can listen to live music while sipping on local wine and meet the winemakers who have drawn thousands of tourists to our state.

Crowne Plaza Springfield, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL
Website  – Facebook Event Page

Wine Lovers’ Weekend
March 24-26, 2017
I had the privilege of attending this weekend celebration last year. The WLW committee is not playing games with that name. There is wine paired meals all weekend, vineyard tours and cooking classes. I recommend you purchase your tickets for the Grand Tasting and then figure out what other events you want to do.

Galena, Illinois
Website – Facebook Event Page

So grab your tickets and kick the winter blues out the door! A little snow should not be stopping you from a fun night or weekend drinking Illinois wine. Share your photos on my Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages.

* Please make sure you have a designated driver or call an Uber! No one should drink and drive.