Winemaking is one of those businesses that typically is a family business.It’s as if winemaking is in your blood! Each generation makes important contributions and the wine just gets better and better.
-chris lawlor-white
1974
Cedar Rapids, ia
Robert Lawlor takes a class on home winemaking and has an idea!
1976
MCGREGOR, IOWA
Christine Lawlor graduates with her Degree in Enology from Fresno State University. Christina Wine Cellars opens producing 200 cases of Cherry Wine.
lacrosse, wisconsin
The Lawlors open a second winery in an old Milwaukee freight depot in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
1980
1983
galena, illinois
During a trip to purchase grapes, the Lawlor family sees an opportunity to open a third winery in Galena, Illinois. They call upon Christine’s brother—Scott–and his wife, Karan, to move to Galena to help with the project.
galena, illinois
Scott, Christine, and their parents open the newly restored 1840’s granary building on Main Street in Galena. Galena Cellars celebrates its first annual “Beaujolais Nouveau” Wine Celebration and is featured on the Today Show.
1985
1990
galena, illinois
As wine production grows, the family acquires a farm on North Ford Road just outside of Galena. They begin growing experimental grapes and move the wine production to the vineyard location. The family decides to focus production in Galena and closes the McGregor and LaCrosse locations.
Flagship wine “Eric the Red” named after and created by Eric White, Christine’s son, is released.
1999
2002
Christine Lawlor-White is honored as “Winemaker of the Year” by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association. She will go on to win this award again in 2008, and 2017.
geneva, illinois
Galena Cellars opens a suburban Tasting Room & Gift Shop in Geneva, Illinois.
2004
2006
Cousins Eric and Sarah (Christine’s Son and Scott’s Daughter) begin their formal education in becoming winemakers at California Polytechnic State University and Fresno State University, respectively. Upon graduation began their winemaking careers…
Scott, Karan, & Christine Lawlor retire after the passing of their parents and our founders and first generation winemakers, Robert & Joyce Lawlor.
The third generation is called on to return from California and return to take on operations of Galena Cellars. Eric White becomes Winemaker & President and sister, Britt, becomes Brand Ambassador.
2018
2019
Christine Lawlor has the honor of presenting the “Winemaker of the Year” award by the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association to her son, Eric White.
galena, illinois
Galena Cellars moves to a new location in the heart of Main Street Galena: 111 N. Main Street.
2020
