Southern Illinois Winemaker Named Enologist of the Year

Kaleb Wilson of Blue Sky Vineyard recognized for his exceptional winemaking skills.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Kaleb Wilson, a winemaker at Blue Sky Vineyard in southern Illinois, was recently named Enologist of the Year at the 2026 Midwest Wine and Grape Summit by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance. Wilson has over 20 years of winemaking experience and has earned numerous accolades, including Best in Show at the Illinois Wine Competition three out of the last four years.

Why it matters

This award highlights the growing reputation and quality of southern Illinois' wine industry, which has seen increased investment and recognition in recent years. Wilson's accomplishments showcase the region's ability to produce world-class wines that can compete on a national stage.

The details

As Blue Sky Vineyard's winemaker, Wilson has been with the winery since its inception. His commitment to excellence and ability to capture the unique character of the vineyard in his wines has earned him praise from the company's owner and general manager, Jim Ewers. In addition to the Best in Show awards, Wilson's wines have also received numerous Double Gold and Gold medals from the prestigious San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

  • Kaleb Wilson was named Enologist of the Year at the 2026 Midwest Wine and Grape Summit.

The players

Kaleb Wilson

A winemaker with over 20 years of experience, who has been with Blue Sky Vineyard since the winery's inception.

Jim Ewers

The owner and general manager of Blue Sky Vineyard, who praised Wilson's commitment to excellence and ability to capture the unique character of the vineyard in his wines.

Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance

The organization that honored Kaleb Wilson with the Enologist of the Year award at the 2026 Midwest Wine and Grape Summit.

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What they’re saying

“Kaleb's commitment to excellence is unmatched. His ability to translate the character of the vineyard into exceptional wines year after year is nothing short of inspiring. We are beyond proud to have him as our winemaker.”

— Jim Ewers, Owner and General Manager, Blue Sky Vineyard (Blue Sky Vineyard)

The takeaway

This award recognizes the growing reputation and quality of southern Illinois' wine industry, which has seen increased investment and recognition in recent years. Kaleb Wilson's accomplishments as Blue Sky Vineyard's winemaker showcase the region's ability to produce world-class wines that can compete on a national stage.