Johnson County Welcomes Bella Terra Winery to Southern Illinois
by dixie terry, For the Southern
Sunday, June 17, 2007 3:54 AM CDT
Bella Terra Winery, the latest addition to the long trail of vineyards and wineries in Southern Illinois, has been welcomed to Johnson County.
The county has two other wineries, Shawnee Winery in Vienna and Cache River Basin Winery in Belknap. Bella Terra is the first winery in the northern part of the county.
Owner and winemaker, Ed Russell, said county commissioners, Rick Nannie, Ernie Henshaw and Ed Brown, had been very cooperative. Jody Johnson, county developer, and Susan Odum, U of I Extension program coordinator, also helped immensely as he got the business off the ground, Russell added.
"Everyone we have approached has been very helpful," he said, including Don Denny of the Small Business organization at Shawnee Community College.
Russell has planted more than 6,000 plants in six varieties on the hills that overlook the scenic winery.
The basic design of the main building was turned out by a Marion architect. However, Russell came up with the creative features, such as the wrap-around covered patio, the back deck and the impressive interior.
The style is a suggestion of Tuscany and guests are almost certain they have arrived in the grape growing area of Italy.
Italian wines and Italian art complement each other in the elegant restaurant. A gift shop, featuring Bella Terra souvenirs, also is planned.
A simulated slate roof is actually metal in a copper bronze finish.
The tinted sidewalks and vintage-appearing stamped concrete on the porch floors were created by Ramsey Concrete of Marion
Russell said there is more than ample parking for all events, including an additional 150 acres across the road, where some 500 cars could be parked.
The winery produced 5,500 gallons of vintage this past year in stand-alones or blends.
"We must have done something right," Russell said, saying ordinarily a customer would come in for a tasting and buy a single bottle to be polite. However, he found most Bella Terra guests took home two, four or six bottles.
The elegant restaurant will seat 100, while another 100 can be accommodated on the deck and porch. The winery can host private social events, musical events and other entertainment planned by the staff.
"We have opened prematurely," Russell said, but an open house is planned for mid-summer.
Business hours are Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The restaurant menu includes sandwiches, snacks and cheese plates, plus light desserts and hand-dipped ice cream.
Reservations are suggested for groups by calling 658-8882.
Bocce ball courts are being built under the massive shade trees that grace the lawn, a former old home site.
Card games will be available for those who choose that entertainment. Guests are urged to come out and spend the day, relaxing in the shade or on the sunny deck overlooking a pond.
As a beginning vintner, Russell began learning the art and science of wine production at a class at Shawnee Community College, advancing to additional classes and seminars at the college and other wineries. He also communicates with other are winemakers.
Although Bella Terra Winery is off the beaten path, it is easily found, thanks to the "trail blazer signs" along Tunnel Hill Road, Creal Springs Road and Parker City Road. Signage on Interstate 24 and state highways will be completed soon.
Visitors can turn on Tunnel Hill Road from either Illinois 37 or U.S. 45 and follow the signs, along the scenic countryside that is well worth the trip.