Our History

 Alto Vineyards is a third-generation family-owned business in its fourth decade of operation. Our team of employees includes Guy’s children and their spouses, his grandchildren and their partners, and numerous loyal and highly skilled workers. Learn more about our rich history and discover the secrets of our wines. From the very beginning with our first grapes to the growing family business that we are today and everything in between. Our roots run deep and our vines stretch far, we want to share our story with you so we can continue writing it together.

Our Timeline

 

First Harvest

Paul Renzaglia Crushing Grapes

Guy Renzaglia harvesting Grapes

New Location in CHampaign, IL

Paul is recognized as Wine Maker of the Year and wins multiple awards

Paul and Elissa Renzaglia

Alto Vineyards becomes the home of many festivals and events

Alto Vineyards builds two new outside decks

The first annual Harvest fest

Karen and Mary-Jo Renzaglia in the winery
 
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The first steps
The first steps

Guy Renzaglia had a vision. He, Skip Cosgrove and Ted Wickman bought 50 acres in Alto Pass and embarked on a journey to rebuild the grape and wine industry in Southern Illinois after its demise during prohibition. 10 acres of grapes were planted.

Building our future
Building our future

Guy’s son Paul became the first winemaker and shared in his father’s dream of becoming the first winery in the region.

Growing the business
Growing the business

Sold first vintage of grapes to the Kohler Family at Lynfred Winery in the Chicago area. At the time, there were only 38 acres of commercial grapes being grown in Illinois.

Turning grapes into wine
Turning grapes into wine

A small 600 sq. ft. winery was constructed. In December, Alto Vineyards released its first 1,500 gallons of Illinois wine and sold out in 3 days. At the time, there were only 6 other wineries in Illinois.

Gaining recognition
Gaining recognition

Alto Vineyards wins first medals in International Wine Competition and our Chambourcin is recognized one of the finest wines in the country.

Birth of the IGGVA
Birth of the IGGVA

Guy and Paul established the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance when there were only seven wineries in Illinois. Guy served as the first President of the IGGVA.

Expanding our production
Expanding our production

Alto Vineyards builds underground addition for expanded production from 3,000 to 8,000 gallons.

Origin of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Origin of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Paul co-founded and served on the first Board of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail (SHWT).

Vibrant festivals
Vibrant festivals

Alto Vineyards vibrant outdoor wine festivals attracted crowds of 800 to 1,200 per day.

Winemaker of the year
Winemaker of the year

Paul recognized as the Winemaker of the Year from the state of Illinois.

Guy recognized by IGGVA
Guy recognized by IGGVA

IGGVA awards first Illinois Industry Achievement Award to Guy in recognition of has work and passion for the growth of the Illinois wine industry. The award was renamed in subsequent years to the Guy Renzaglia Industry Achievement Award.

Expanding capacity
Expanding capacity

Wine production increased from 8,000 to 25,000 gallons to keep up with growing demand.

Opening of Tasting Room in Champaign
Opening of Tasting Room in Champaign

Alto Vineyards opens second outlet in Champaign near the University of Illinois. Guy’s daughter, son-in-law Jim and family began selling Alto Vineyards wine in Central Illinois.

Third generation joins the company
Third generation joins the company

Elissa, Paul’s daughter, became marketing manager at Alto Vineyards, continuing the tradition with 3rd generation of Renzaglia family.

Improving the grounds
Improving the grounds

2004-2007 – Alto Vineyards new outdoor pavilion and gazebo were constructed to accommodate growing crowds at annual wine festivals.

Paul wins Winemaker of the year again
Paul wins Winemaker of the year again

Paul recognized as the Winemaker of the Year from the state of Illinois.

Paul recognized by IGGVA
Paul recognized by IGGVA

Paul awarded the Guy Renzaglia Industry Achievement Award.

An attractive destination
An attractive destination

With expansive and exclusive inside and outside spaces, Alto Vineyards becomes an attractive destination for large gathering, private parties and special events.

Expanding the enterprise
Expanding the enterprise

New Tasting Room built with over 5000 square feet retail area and Vine Deck overlooking the vineyard, pond and beautiful Shawnee Hills.

Following family footsteps
Following family footsteps

Miguel Womac, Karen’s son and Guy’s grandson, joins the production team as assistant winemaker.

Happy 30th birthday!
Happy 30th birthday!

Our community and loyal customers joined in celebrating our 30th anniversary with spectacular fireworks, local foods and lively music. This event is now our annual Harvest Festival.

Return of the old guard
Return of the old guard

Retired second generation siblings of Renzaglias, Mary Jo, Paul, Katrina and Karen, returned to assist Dan in building the business with a renewed focus on family and community.

Expansion of Champaign
Expansion of Champaign

Champaign expansion included two outside decks and a classy events space

Present day
Present day

Alto Vineyards is the anchor business for an entire tourism sector that spans Southern Illinois from the Mississippi to Ohio Rivers.

 

 

Who are we?

Our Mission

Alto Vineyards has a deep foundation and commitment to the diverse and vibrant cultures and people of Southern Illinois. As the oldest and most celebrated winery, we pledge to provide the finest wines and to keep the history of the local wine industry alive. With a foundation in family, community and our region, we strive to be a place that our customers want to visit and that employees want to work.

 

Our Values

Our values are the core of our company and represent the heart of our CRAFT WINES!

Community

Respect

Artful

Family

Tradition

Wisdom

Inclusivity

Nurturing

Education

Sustainability