Southern Illinois Wine Tour

I had the privilege of presenting the BIN 36 wines in Carbondale, Edwardsville and Fairview Heights over the weekend. Those folks really know how to party! On Saturday, I poured the BIN 36 2001 Sparkling, 2007 Chardonnay, 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006 Merlot, 2006 Syrah and 2006 D & S Proprietary Red Wine at The Cheesemaker in Fairview Heights, Il. This wine, cheese and gourmet food emporium has an amazing following, and with good reason. They offer carefully selected boutique wines, artisanal cheese and everything your gourmet heart desires. I met and tasted wines with nearly 100 new friends. On several occasions I was armed with a bottle in each hand to keep up with the crowd's enthusiastic reception of the wines. I was only too happy to oblige.

(the line for the wine...)

(...and pouring wine for the line!)

On my trip home, I made a pit stop in Bloomington-Normal where I attended ISU. My memories of the most delicious thin crust pizza at local favorite Lucca Grill were more than accurate. Pictures don't lie, but the truth is in the eating. This old school establishment opened in the late 20's or early 30's. They've told me exactly when several times, but I am always chewing too loudly to hear. You won't believe it until you taste it—ask my buddies Kevin Boehm (Boka, Perrenial & Landmark) or chef Paul Virant (Vie). I convinced them to swing by Lucca last summer on our way to a charity event for the Hope Institute in Springfield, Il. Seriously, check it out. A one of a kind original.

Damn it. I should have left a few bottles of wine for them. Well, I'll just have to go back. Road trip anyone?