Welcome to Baxter’s Vineyards
Baxter’s Vineyards is proud to be the oldest winery in Illinois, established in 1857 by Emile and Annette Baxter. Nestled in the historic town of Nauvoo, Illinois, our small, family-owned winery has been growing grapes and crafting wine for five generations. Today, Baxter’s Vineyards is co-owned by Kelly and Brenda Logan, with Kelly representing the fifth generation of Baxters continuing the family tradition of cultivating grapes, apples, and fine wines in the heart of Nauvoo.
Our Story
Emile Baxter, the founder of what is now Baxter’s Vineyards, first came to Nauvoo in 1855 to join the Icarian commune. When the colony broke up in 1857, Emile and his wife Annette briefly returned to the East Coast. However, they soon realized they preferred the rural charm of Nauvoo and came back to plant roots - literally. Having learned about grape culture from his Icarian friends, Emile purchased eight acres of land near today’s Nauvoo business district and began planting grape cuttings.
Joined by his sons Emile Jr., Tom, and Cecil, the family business became known as E. Baxter & Sons, proprietors of the Golden Hills Vineyards. In 1987, Kelly Logan and his wife Brenda took over operations, renaming it Baxter’s Vineyards. Together, they’ve carried on the family’s legacy - producing both Baxter’s Old Nauvoo Brand Wines and new favorites for every palate.
Vineyard Heritage
Illinois has been home to vineyards for over 150 years, and Nauvoo played a central role in that history By 1880, the Nauvoo area boasted more than 600 acres of vineyards and 40 wine cellars, building a reputation for producing excellent wines.
The oldest recorded Concord grape vineyard in Illinois was planted in Nauvoo in 1851 and still produces fruit today in Nauvoo State Park. Carrying forward this proud heritage, Baxter’s Vineyards now tends 16 acres of grapes, harvesting 13 different varieties each year.
Crafting Our Wines
At Baxter’s, we believe there’s a wine for every taste. From sweet to dry, red to white, and even blush, we craft wines that showcase the richness of our vineyards and the tradition of our family. Each year, we bottle around 1,000 cases of wine - every bottle filled with history, care, and the flavor of Nauvoo.
You can explore our wines in person, order online, or choose local pick-up. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering us for the first time, we invite you to taste the tradition.
Visit Us
Wine Tasting & Gift Shop Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm (Jan-March: 12 pm - 5 pm)
Please Note: Gift Shop & Wine Tasting hours differ from The Wine Barrel hours.
The Wine Barrel - Nauvoo's Only Neighborhood Bar
Located just across the patio from our Tasting Room, The Wine Barrel is a cozy neighborhood bar and gathering spot.
Hours:
Monday: 3 pm - 6 pm
Tuesday through Thursday: 3 pm - 7 pm
Friday: 3 pm - 7 pm (or later)
Saturday: 2 pm - 7 pm (or later)
Sunday: 12 noon - 6 pm
Additional hours may be available by appointment. Please call 217-453-2528 with any questions.
Come for the history, stay for the wine! We look forward to welcoming you to Baxter’s Vineyards & The Wine Barrel in historic Nauvoo.
