Welcome to Warren James Winery!
Cole and Blake Pierce were both born and raised in Coles County and are the first two sons of Cheri and Kevin Pierce (the third, Derek, currently resides in Charlotte, NC). After receiving his Bachelors and Masters degrees from EIU, Cole went on to receive his certificates in Viticulture, Enology, and Wine Business Management from Washington State University in Pullman, Washington. Blake is the Director of Finance at Rural King in Mattoon.
“Neon” Leon Flood has been a wine hobbyist for 25 years. After inheriting his father’s recipe for wine, he started learning the craft in his garage. Over the decades, he has developed several delicious varieties, including our favorite Semi-Sweet Blackberry Wine. He also grows and harvests about 20 gallons of blackberries per year and uses local fruit to make other varieties such as apple, pear, peach, and cherry. Leon has known Cole most of his life and has been an integral part of Warren James Winery since the beginning. We are grateful that he has chosen to share his passion and skill for making wine with our family and customers.
Haylee Gist recently relocated to Mattoon, where she lives with her husband and three dogs. Haylee earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Monmouth College. She serves as the Business Office Coordinator, handling all things office-related, and managing events at the winery. Haylee has a passion for wine, and for creating a welcoming environment where people can make memories together.