Waterman Winery and Vineyards represents agriculture at its best.  Over 50 years of stewardship and conservation have created a productive and healthy environment for growing grapes.  Because the grapes are grown on this farm and the winemaking process occurs here too, we have total control of our product, Sunset Wines.  Each year additional grape varieties will become mature, so we will be offering new types of wines.  We are excited about the quality of grapes grown on our northern Illinois farm and we look forward to sharing unique wine with you when you visit our tasting area in the farm winery.

 

“A Little History”

The vineyards and winery were founded in 1998 by three middle school teachers looking for something interesting to do as retirement approached.  Luckily, agriculture, chemistry and social sciences were their areas of expertise.  With additional research, this idea was within their reach. Many meetings with experts and workshops helped to make this dream a reality.  Currently, our ownership is shared between two couples, Clem and Anne Stiely and Terrie and Lex Tuntland. 

 

“The Facts”

Waterman Winery and Vineyards, Inc.

• Producing wines from grapes grown on a northern Illinois, DeKalb County farm.  They said it couldn’t be done!
• Ten acres of grapes with thirty varieties, most are French-American hybrids. 
• We practice limited use of chemicals and are starting an organic vineyard.  Much of the trellis system is made of re-used materials.
• The winemaking process begins the same day that the grapes are harvested, capturing their freshness.
• Offering handcrafted, unique red and white wines,

dry to sweet, natural in state and fruit-forward in presentation.

• Some fruit wines, such as apple, pear and pumpkin may also be available for you to enjoy.
• Our “Brand Name” is Sunset Wines.
• Sunset Wines are available in retail stores too.  Look for them at

Casey’s General Stores – Waterman, Shabbona

Inboden’s Grocery – DeKalb

Lundeen’s Liquors – DeKalb and Sycamore

Michaels Brothers Grocery - Hinckley

Sullivan’s Grocery – Rochelle

Rouge Wine Cellars – Creston

• Honey Hill Orchards is right across the road.  They feature apples, raspberries and many late summer and fall produce items and home-baked apple desserts!  Check out their web site!