About – The Grafton Winery

GROWING A COMMUNITY,
AND POuRING OUT PASSION

The Grafton Winery: Brewhaus and Vineyards Legacy

Rooted in the vision of founders Mike and Lori Nikonovich. Inspired by a love for wineries discovered during their travels, the couple embarked on a daring adventure, establishing The Grafton Winery in 2008 which now stands as a beacon of hospitality in the heart of downtown Grafton.

Our journey began with a simple vision: to create a destination where friends and family could come together to savor the finer things in life—good wine, delicious food, and shared laughter. Since our inception, we’ve remained steadfast in our commitment to quality, innovation, and the art of celebration, continually striving to exceed expectations and create moments that linger long after the last sip is savored. With each pour and every plate served, we invite you to join us in raising a glass to the joy of connection, the beauty of tradition, and the enduring magic of The Grafton Winery experience. Welcome to our table, where memories are made, and laughter echoes through the vineyards.

2006

Mike and Lori began their venture as a small boutique winery in the nearby city of Edwardsville.

2008

The current downtown Grafton location opened up on the site of the former Grafton Elementary School and The Grafton Winery and Brewhaus was born.

2011

The Brewhaus location continued to expand to serve more guests as Grafton continued to see a growth in visitors.

2013

The Brewhaus expanded once again with the addition of outdoor patio seating and event space.

2015

The Vineyards officially opened up to the public to provide a more unique winery experience while allowing the expansion of operations.

Today

The Grafton Winery continues to serve the region both with the amenities on their estates and with their wine made available online and in regional stores.

Where Every Grape
Tells a Story

Why We Chose Illinois

Distinct Terroir

Illinois’ diverse landscape offers a unique terroir, with varying soil types, microclimates, and elevations, imparting distinct flavors and characteristics to our wines.

Hybrid Varietals

The state’s climate is conducive to hybrid grape varieties, allowing for the production of unique wines with distinct flavors and characteristics.

Rich History

With a winemaking heritage dating back to the 19th century, Illinois boasts a rich viticultural history, blending traditional practices with modern innovation.