Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting my eleven month old niece and my sister-in-law in Southern Illinois. I had no idea what to expect of the landscape and was thrilled to witness the leaves changing color. Most of the leaves in Central Texas are still green; they never have a chance to turn such brilliant colors.
It made me so happy that I’ve decided from now on, when possible, I will travel where the leaves are changing during the autumn months. In retrospect, I guess I haven’t seen this beautiful act of nature very often during my life.
Another surprise was the number of vineyards! Southern Illinois wine country is located throughout the Shawnee Hills. The drive between the wineries is beautiful and the changing leaves made it even more so. We stopped at two on a Saturday and they were quite busy.
Blue Sky Vineyard is located on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. The area is known for its use of the Chambourcin grape, a French-American hybrid.
Owl Creek Vineyard kicked off this wine region in 1980. If you’re visiting the area, be sure to download the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail app for .99 cents in the iTunes store. We were without cell service throughout most of the area and the app can help keep you on track.
May your journey be your muse,
Rachel
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