Discover the Heart and Soul of Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar

Located in the heart of Champaign County’s countryside, Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar isn’t just a place to enjoy wine—it’s a place where passion, family, and community come together. Owners Connie and Kent didn’t set out to open a winery; they simply wanted to grow something beautiful. But like the vines they tend with such care, their dream blossomed into something much bigger—a warm and welcoming retreat where every glass tells a story

A Vineyard with Deep Roots
It all started with a simple idea: Connie, a retired teacher with farming in her blood, needed a new project to keep her hands busy and her heart full. She and Kent had the land, and she had always loved gardening—so why not plant grapes? Over the course of three years, they nurtured their vineyard, growing grapes for another winery while learning everything they could about viticulture through workshops and conferences.

But something about the process captivated them. Kent, a psychologist by day, found himself drawn to the intricate balance of science and artistry that winemaking requires. What began as a hobby—starting with simple wine kits, then progressing to fresh juice, and eventually to their own hand-harvested grapes—soon turned into a full-fledged passion. Friends and family tasted their wines and urged them to take the leap. In June 2019, after planting a fourth acre to expand their offerings, they welcomed their first guests to Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar.

​An Experience Like No Other
Many wineries don’t have their own vineyards, but at Dragonfly, the vines are part of the experience. Picture yourself seated at a cozy table nestled right among the grapes, sipping the very wine they produced. It’s an immersive experience, one that connects visitors to the land in a way few places can. 
And it’s not just about the wine—food is an integral part of the Dragonfly experience. Connie was adamant from the start that guests should have great food to pair with their wine, and she continues to expand the menu, crafting a selection that’s as thoughtful as the wine itself.  The atmosphere is just as special. Visitors often describe Dragonfly as feeling “like coming home”—a place where conversation flows as easily as the wine, and where Kent and Connie are often on hand to chat with guests, making everyone feel like part of the family.

Wines That Tell a Story
Dragonfly Vineyard offers an impressive selection of handcrafted wines, made with care and intention. Their most popular selections include Liberty Red, a 

sweet Concord wine bursting with rich fruit flavors, and Happy Wine, made from locally grown Frontenac grapes.

For those who love dry reds, Dragonfly’s Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon— sourced both from their own vineyard and from select West Coast growers—offer depth and character that rival wines from more well-known wine regions. The vineyard’s commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed, as their wines have earned numerous awards at both state and international competitions. 

Dragonfly even has a limited-edition wine with a heartwarming cause: Innocent Indulgence, a decadent chocolate raspberry wine, was first created as a special for the solar eclipse. It became so popular that they decided to bring it back as a fundraiser for Parkinson’s and PSP research.

The Art of Winemaking
Good wine starts in the vineyard, and Connie’s meticulous care for the vines is just as important as what happens after harvest. The process is labor-intensive, with each grape hand-picked and carefully sorted before fermentation begins.

Kent, ever the scientist, oversees every stage in the wine cellar, ensuring each wine is balanced, smooth, and full of character. From monitoring the fermentation process to aging select reds in barrels for just the right amount of time, his attention to detail is what makes Dragonfly’s wines stand out. As he likes to say, winemaking is “10% making the wine and 90% cleaning”— because when it comes to wine, cleanliness is key to achieving the perfect taste.

More Than a Winery—A Community Hub
Dragonfly is more than a place to enjoy great wine—it’s a gathering space for friends, families, and the community.

Throughout the year, they host a variety of events, from Paint and Sip nights with local artists to book club meetings, showers, birthday celebrations, and

even post funeral gatherings. Their staff—many of whom are current or retired teachers—are passionate about what they do, making every visit feel warm and welcoming.

One of their most beloved traditions is the Parkinson’s/PSP Vineyard Stroll, held every September. This isn’t your typical 5K—here, participants enjoy a leisurely walk through the vineyard, stopping for tastings along the way. It’s an event that blends fun with purpose, raising thousands of dollars each year for a cause close to their hearts.

A Must-Visit Destination 
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just looking for a relaxing escape, Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar offers an experience unlike any other. It’s a place where time slows down, where the sky stretches wide, and where laughter and conversation fill the air.

In the summer, guests can spread out across the vineyard and patios, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. In the colder months, the cozy fireplace and hot mulled wine provide the perfect setting for a warm and inviting retreat.

Plan Your Visit 
Dragonfly Vineyard is open Thursdays from 5:00-9:00 PM and Fridays & Saturdays from 12:00-9:00 PM. No reservations are required for tastings, and guests are encouraged to explore the vineyard at their leisure.

For updates on events, new wine releases, and special offerings, you can follow them on Facebook (@DragonflyVineyard) or visit DragonflyVineyard.com.

Come for the wine, stay for the experience, and leave with a story worth sharing. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Dragonfly Vineyard & Wine Cellar is a place where good wine, great food, and even better company come together in perfect harmony. 

Cheers!