4 F A L L 2 0 2 2 BUSINESS spotlight Owners David and Susan Wesa began turning their winery dreams into reality when they purchased the property in 2006. She said, “David started making wine from a kit over 20 years ago, and we began looking for property to plant grapes and retire. When we found the old coal mine in Williamson, we fell in love with the land. The only way for us to buy it was to sell our Victorian home in Edwardsville and make the move years before we planned to retire. Along with our five children, we’ve been on this adventure ever since.” Cabins, Cottages, and Coziness Visitors to The Winery at Shale Lake, open March 15 through December 15, can come just for an evening or choose to stay awhile. There are four cabins along the lake’s south shore, five cottages on top of the hill including a honeymoon cottage, and a floating cabin on the lake with a wraparound deck that’s perfect for fishing. Each unit is a different size with a different theme. Some are pet friendly. Also on the property are a heated wine garden, cozy winter loft, scenic wine trail and picnic areas, plus an outdoor patio and grove. The Winery at Shale Lake makes 13 wines using red and white grape varietals, and these are the only wines served. Heavy appetizers are available, and live music takes place on selected Saturdays. Connected with Madison What more do you need when you have a gorgeous setting and delicious wine and food? Well, The Winery at Shale Lake also needs reliable technology. Madison Communications is happy to provide internet, TV, and voice services. Wesa noted, “We love Madison Communications and have used their services since we moved here. Our entire property is 200 acres and fairly remote, yet Madison Communications is able to meet our requirements. We offer free Wi-Fi to guests at The Winery and cottages, and David and I appreciate the The Winery at Shale Lake The Winery at Shale Lake in Williamson has autumn written all over it. You can sip Illinois wine while enjoying the picturesque setting featuring a 24-acre lake, 14-acre vineyard, and 60-foot hill (the highest point in Madison County). Don’t be surprised if you see deer running across the field or wild turkeys making their way into the woods. David and Susan Wesa invite you to “Get Away and Play”
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