CARBONDALE: A PLACE TO UNWIND
L
isa Ellis, executive director for the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance, didn’t know the organization’s annual conference in late February would be one of the last large events she would host. In the months that followed, the novel coronavirus spread through Illinois, canceling events and closing businesses. Ellis and the IGGVA staff continue to push their project to make rosé Illinois’ official state wine, and “unite” the industry with a common product. They are doing so in unique ways in the era of COVID-19 — including a virtual wine tasting recently hosted for hospitality industry professionals and media from across the state. For the tasting, I received four local wines from a friendly delivery driver who handed me a hefty box at my home. Inside were four wines sent by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance, including a Chambourcin Rosé from August Hill Winery in Utica, a Flyaway Rosé from Kite Hill Vineyards in Carbondale, an Estate Rosé from Walker’s Bluff in Carterville and a Rosato from Alto Vineyards in Alto Pass. Attached was a note from Ellis and Brad Beam, the enology specialist for the IGGVA, welcoming participants to the organization’s first virtual wine tasting,
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
along with some simple instructions on chilling the wines and suggestions for pairing. “Should you desire to pair your wines with food, we have the following recommendations: shellfish, especially shrimp (...) barbecue, burgers and pizza; or
spicy Asian and Mexican cuisine,” the note said. I didn’t have to look further than the first line. I decided to make a fresh shrimp ceviche — a Latin seafood dish that is said to have
Continued on page 28
Providing a community with SAFETY and SECURITY where everyone is treated with LOVE, COMPASSION and DIGNITY. The entire culture and services of Prairie Living at Chautauqua are driven by these beliefs.
955 Villa Court Carbondale, IL 62901 618-351-7955 • F: 618-351-6955 www.prairieliving-slf.com
ton St. g n i h s a 119 N. W le, IL Carbonda
308
7-3 5 4 ) 8 1 (6
A Supportive Living Community for Seniors
carbondalechamber.com 27
