Planted Now!
The Vineyard at Shale Lake
Over 3000 grape vines were planted in April of 2007. The rocky soil of the southern exposure hillside created by the coal mine and it's reclamation is perfect for this tough crop. Five varieties, all tested and grown in Southern Illinois were planted. Two white grapes; Vignole and Traminette and three red varieties: Chambourcin, Marechal Foch and Norton will be harvested soon.
It should be fun to watch...
with plans to use "baby doll" sheep
to naturally trim the lower leaves
on the vines!
Meet Nitro...Ready to Ram-Up and
get started as soon as the vines are
tied up.
Baby update: We are up to 12 sheep
in 2009 and expect 6-8 more lambs in 2010...
Building Later!
The Winery at Shale Lake
The year 2010 should bring the official opening of the Winery and the temporary tasting room. The Horseshoe and Wine Garden will be opening in June 2010. Wine production has begun and will be bringing agri-tourism and revenue to the small community of Williamson. Plans for the future still include a full sized tasting room, banquet facility and rental cabins.
Spin and Grin
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Watch for the Madison County Tranist Bike Trail development. Once the proposed Bike Trail crosses Illinois Route 4....you can peddle your way to the Winery via Williamson Road.
www.mcttrails.org
www.its-trail.org
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