Did you know submarines once traveled down the Illinois River?

Join us for a fascinating afternoon of local history, naval tradition, and sparkling wine!

The afternoon’s presentations include:

• Submarines Down the River: Joe Tokarz, a U.S. Navy submarine veteran and historian, shares the remarkable history of submarines traveling down the Illinois River in a special 20–30-minute presentation.
• A Sparkling Connection: August Hill Winemaker Mark Wenzel shares the stories behind Illinois Sparkling Co.’s Blend 795 and Blend 786, two sparkling wines used to christen U.S. Navy submarines. He’ll also share memorabilia from the christenings along with insights into pairing these wines with food.

Free Admission — RSVP Required

The presentations are free to attend, but reservations are required as seating is limited.

Optional Sparkling Wine & Snack Pairing

Enhance your experience with two 2-oz pours of Illinois Sparkling Co.’s Blend 795 and Blend 786, each accompanied by a specially selected snack pairing. These are the two wines that were used to christen submarines! Select the optional pairing when you RSVP.

$15 per person | $10 for Wine Club members

Join us for an afternoon celebrating naval history and the unique connection between submarines and Illinois sparkling wine!

Image Note: Photograph of the U.S.S. Raton (SS-270) passing through Lockport, IL, courtesy of the Manitowoc Maritime Museum and the Naval History and Heritage Command (Catalog #: NH 68272).