The Northern Illinois Wine Growers (NIWG) association was formed in 1998, with assistance from Dr. Imid Dami, Illinois' State Viticulturist at the time, Robert Hall, local representative for the Illinois Grape Grower and Vintner's Association (IGGVA) and Chris Lawlor-White, winemaker and part owner of Galena Cellars Winery, who donated land for our Research Vineyard. The Illinois Wine Council (disbanded) donated funds for vineyard equipment and several varieties of grapes.

Northern Illinois Wine Growers, Ltd  now has 20 experimental varieties in their vineyard and operates primarily with volunteer help.

NIWG's Mission is to...

	disseminate knowledge about wine grape growing in Northern Illinois
	test new varieties of grape from time to time as to winter hardiness
	make wine from experimental varieties to evaluate and share
	provide a forum for winemakers to network
	help establish an AVA unique to our area
	promote the selection of several "signature" northern Illinois wines
	encourage and assist new growers, to benefit the wineries