Illinois’ wine industry considers itself important part of Illinois tourism in 2021

Posted on April 13, 2021
Lisa Ellis, executive director of the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance, says some of the coronavirus provisions will be permanent. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ wine industry considers itself an important part of Illinois tourism and hopes 2021 is a comeback year after the pandemic.

While you can shop in a store, use curbside pickup, or even get a delivery, Lisa Ellis says experiencing a winery is part of the fun.

Ellis, executive director of the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance, says the pandemic restrictions slashed wine sales in half.

And some facets of pandemic life are likely to stick.

“Single-use glassware, for example,” Ellis says, “we’ve done some festivals in the past, where you come in and get your cup and how many people touch that cup all the way through the festival? I don’t see that coming back anytime soon.”

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]. 

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