One of the most rewarding aspects of my job here at IBOT is the opportunity to see how surprised and happy people can be when they discover the hidden treasures of Illinois. This really hit home with me a few weeks ago when I took some family members to Springfield. As we toured the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, my sister turned to me and said, “You know, there are a lot more than three days worth of things to do in Springfield!” This is a fact we in the industry know already, but it’s great to hear it from someone just finding out how many travel options we have in Illinois. The same words could be said of any region in the state.

Similarly, many are surprised when they learn that we have a thriving wine industry right here in Illinois. Gov. Blagojevich sought to remedy this when he announced September 2005 as Illinois Wine Month. We’re proud to join our wineries, vineyards and related sites in taking full advantage of this chance to promote Illinois as a producer of some of the highest quality wines available. The governor said it best in a recent statement: “We’re thrilled to showcase the vibrant Illinois Wine industry, which is quickly becoming part of the state’s culture as well as a major contributor to Illinois’ economy. Illinois Wine Month is the ideal time to explore our picturesque wineries and unique varietals.”

While Illinois has a long and historic winemaking tradition dating back to the 1700s, it’s over the past decade that the industry has truly grown by leaps and bounds. In 1997 the state had only 12 wineries, today it boasts almost 60. A staggering 500,000 gallons of wine are produced annually in Illinois on close to 1,000 acres of land. The economic impact of this booming industry is a sizeable $20 million a year. Continued >

Industry Insider: Brenda Logan

To help you get to know who’s who in Illinois tourism, ITN profiles an industry leader each month. This month we introduce Brenda Logan, owner and general manager of Baxter’s Vineyards in Nauvoo and secretary-treasurer of the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association.

Did you know in 1900 Illinois was the fourth-largest wine producing state in the nation? Or that the Illinois wine industry has proliferated in recent years, growing from just 12 wineries in 1997 to nearly 60 wineries today? Or that the Shawnee Hill Wine Trail entertains 100,000 visitors each year, generating gross annual revenues exceeding $2 million? If not, then you probably haven’t met Brenda Logan.

Growing grapes and making wine has been a vital part of the Western Illinois town of Nauvoo’s history since 1848, and a family tradition for the Baxter family for almost as long. Emile Baxter planted his first vineyard in 1857, and his sons joined his grape growing and winemaking business when they grew up. After Emile’s death in 1895, his sons continued raising grapes and making wine until Prohibition. Continued >