Wine By Appointment traveled to Joliet, Illinois last weekend for a very special occasion (more about that later) and found we had a couple of spare hours to take in the local sites. What better way to while away the hours than wine-tasting!! A quick Google search led us to the magnificent castle that is Bishop’s Hill Winery
Just like most fascinating people and places, the castle has an interesting past. Known as the Sehring Castle, the castle was built in 1892 by German Brewmaster Federick Sehring to house himself and his brewery. Later, the castle became the home of the Joliet Catholic Dioceses. The castle and its grounds have a stately, old-world European vibe, and it’s difficult to believe it's just a skip and hop from downtown Joliet
Five years in the making to become Bishop’s Hill Winery, the winery is the creation of local Joliet brothers Damon and Doug Stonich. Bishop’s Hill Winery’s mission is to bring the buttery whites and fruity red wines Californians take for granted to Illinois. To that end, all of their wines are of grapes from Northern Californian AVAs (Agricultural Viticulture Areas). So, those craving a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to go with that steak or pork chop look no further. Step into the beautiful wainscotted tasting rooms and sip yourself into oblivion, sampling the nine wines that comprise Bishop’s Hill Winery tasting menu. Coupled with a charcuterie plate, you have the makings of a memorable afternoon. I’m partial to the yummy Bishops Blend, a blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Petite Syrah myself. Not too many places you can spend time in a castle.
Bishop’s Hill Winery is located at 310 Bridge Street, Joliet, Illinois 60435; Call 773-269-7365 or check out www.bishopshill.com for more details.
As mentioned earlier, I would be remiss not to mention the primary reason we were in Joliet, not that a visit to Bishop’s Hill Winery isn’t worth a plane ride. My exceptionally handsome nephew Matthew and his gorgeous bride, Rachel, were finally able to walk down the aisle and say their “I Do’s" witnessed by loving family and friends at the fantastic Haley Mansion. So, Matthew and Rachael, may you have many, many years of blessings and joy.
Until next time.