Effingham, IL – September 10, 2025 – Barn & Bottle Winery, a charming, family-run vineyard and tasting room in Altamont, has joined the Effingham County Chamber.
Nestled on a restored pole barn complete with large white pine beams, galvanized tin ceilings, and shiplap walls, this venue welcomes guests into a warm, relaxed environment that blends rustic ambiance with small-batch winemaking. All wines at the winery are hand-crafted, processed, and bottled in-house, offering a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying local flavor.
Barn & Bottle Winery began as a dream between Andy and Melissa Voelker, sparked when they explored the idea of retirement. With encouragement from their children—Benjamin, Brandon, Brady, and daughter-in-law Stephanie—Andy planted his first vines in 2013. After their initial Niagara grape harvest in 2016 produced “Sweetie,” a sweet white table wine now among their top sellers, the family began building a proper winery. Construction of the wine lab began in 2019, followed by expansion into a full tasting room that opened softly in October 2022 and celebrated its grand opening in March 2023.
Beyond the tasting room, Barn & Bottle Winery also serves as a community gathering spot. The winery regularly hosts live music, vendor fairs, and seasonal festivals, creating opportunities for people to come together and celebrate local talent, food, and culture in a relaxed setting. Their next Vendor Fair is scheduled for Saturday, October 4, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
“Barn & Bottle Winery captures the essence of local craftsmanship and community spirit,” said Katie Koester, President & CEO of the Effingham County Chamber. “Their dedication to hand-crafted winemaking and creating an inviting space for friends and families is a perfect match for our Chamber’s mission of fostering vibrant, place-based businesses.”
Barn & Bottle Winery is located at 10810 N. First Street, Altamont, IL 62411, and can be reached by phone at (618) 322‑7327 or via email at amv1987@yahoo.com. For updates and community engagement, follow them on Facebook at @barnandbottle.
Fall Hours: Friday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Chamber membership opens doors to new connections, business resources, and growth opportunities designed to support your success. Reach out to Membership Director Becky Brown at (217) 347-6283 or visit EffinghamCountyChamber.com to get started.
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Pictured (left to right): Chamber Ambassador Steve Will, Chamber Membership Director Becky Brown, Chamber President & CEO Katie Koester, Owners Andy & Melissa Voelker, Myla & Benjamin Voelker, and Chamber Ambassador Marty Stock
About the Effingham County Chamber
Established in 1917, the Effingham County Chamber is the leading advocate for local businesses and a driving force for community growth. The Chamber connects members with leadership opportunities, business resources, and programs that strengthen the economic vitality of Effingham County. With over a century of service, the Chamber continues to champion success for businesses of all sizes. Learn more at EffinghamCountyChamber.com.