In the episode, we talk with Shannon Cooney, the owner and winemaker of Crooked Creek Winery in Centralia, Illinois. Shannon shares the story of how he and his wife became interested in winemaking through visits to vineyards in California. They eventually decided to purchase a small winery in Illinois. Shannon discusses his journey of learning winemaking and establishing the quality of wines produced in Illinois. He highlights successes like their signature rosé and the challenges of scaling a small, local winery business. Shannon also shares his passion for growing the professional community in Centralia by supporting the creation of more lively spaces like a brewery, boutiques, and restaurants to attract entrepreneurs and retain local talent.
Key Points:
Shannon discusses how he and his wife became interested in winemaking through visits to California vineyards and eventually purchased a small winery in Illinois
He talks about the challenges of learning winemaking and establishing quality wines in a young Illinois wine region
Shannon sources grapes locally and discusses partnerships with grape growers in Southern Illinois
He shares the journey of experimenting with wines and developing signature varieties like the rosé
Education of customers through tastings and expanding palates
Two locations for the winery business are described, providing different experiences
Challenges of scaling production and distribution as a small, local winery
Shannon's efforts to develop downtown Centralia, Illinois through real estate and attracting businesses
He talks about mentoring local high school students through an entrepreneurship program