Wild Pickins Vineyards — Attraction in Carlinville

Totally blew me away.

I moved back to the area almost three years ago, but had not come to WPW. Then recently, I found out that my 50th class reunion was going to be held there. Hearing that news, I knew it was time to come and check it out.

When I arrived mid-afternoon on a Sunday, I was shocked how large the venue was and how full the parking lot was. I quickly realized, Wild Pickens Winery is a hot spot and the place to be seen on weekends.

They have a fairly extensive wine menu, it was larger then what I was expecting. I enjoyed two glasses of Cabernet and was impressed with its robust flavor. When my server told me, all glasses of wine were $7, my frugal personality smiled.

To my surprise they had an extensive menu. I was expecting a very simple menu of only a few items, but they had it all. Their menu had entrees, burgers and wood fired pizzas. I had eaten brunch earlier so I wasn't that hungry, but wanted to try something. I ordered the Stuffed Mushrooms and they hit the spot. They were stuffed with spinach, cream cheese and parmesan. The order came with three good sized mushrooms, so it would be perfect for one or sharing.

They had a band playing in the main room inside and the music was super loud. Friends that I ran into there, told me in good weather the band is outside and makes for a more enjoyable listening experience. The loud music is why they only got a 4 Star rating.

The service was small town, down home country friendly. WPW is only open Thursday thru Sunday and I'll definitely be back. I gotta come back and try one of their wood...

This is a pretty new winery in the area and it's one of the nicer "homestyle" establishments. The proprietor, Todd, has a friendly staff and he engages with everyone to make sure they're having a good time. They have 1 or 2 types of a variety of wines and beer drinkers will also have some good options. There are a few appetizer-type options but this place really isn't a place to come eat a hefty lunch or dinner. The place is reasonably priced, a casual and moderately upscale with a mix of clientele. You'll usually find a few convertibles and motorcycles in the parking lot - folks who are out for a nice weekend drive/ride along Hwy 111 which connects Central IL with the Godfrey and Great River Road gateway area. Weekends are the best as there's usually some good entertainment (on the outdoor decks when weather is good) to set the mood. When you're out looking for a place to spend an hour or two, listen to live music and have an adult beverage Wild Pickens is...

Small winery, nice visit to listen to Lick Creek Country Band. Music outstanding! The drinks are a little pricey but understandable. Now my BIG issue is I drove over an hour to visit and my wife and I were expecting the food listed on their website. That IS NOT the case here. They offered a Sloppy Joe, pulled pork or Chicken salad for food at $8. Portions on sandwiches were very small. Terrible decision to save money, web page should make a note of limited menus. Quite disappointed since this is in the middle of nowhere and no...