Spring 2006
Travel “Down the Lazy River” on Indiana Wine Trail
Traveling along the Indiana Wine Trail, you’re likely to be surprised by two things. First off, there’s the geography. Far from the flatlands Indiana is famous for, this stretch of Southeast Indiana winds through gently rolling countryside interspersed with spectacular views of the Ohio River. Situated along a nationally-designated scenic byway and dotted with historic attractions and quaint small towns, it’s an ideal road trip at any time of year.
The second surprise to be found along this five-county Wine Trail? The wineries themselves. Encompassing everything from secluded estate vineyards to historic pub-style bistros, the Indiana Wine Trail brings together the region’s best, each offering a different take on one of the state’s fastest-growing agricultural products: handcrafted Indiana wine.
A Taste of History
The story of the Indiana Wine Trail begins nearly two hundred years ago, when Swiss settlers near Vevay, Indiana began cultivating vineyards to produce wine. Their efforts established Southeast Indiana as the nation’s first winemaking region and led to the creation of the country’s first commercial winery. As the birthplace of the American wine industry, it should come as no surprise that the Ohio River Valley is now recognized as the largest designated wine area in the U.S. This hardy Midwestern grape-growing region encompasses approximately 16 million total acres and stretches across four states.
Today, the Indiana Wine Trail starts and ends in Southeast Indiana, a scenic corner of the state positioned along the river where Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky meet. Located within driving distance of major metropolitan areas like Cincinnati, Indianapolis and Louisville, it’s still largely rural in nature, a picturesque blend of small towns and natural scenery perfect for exploring by car.
As you drive along the Wine Trail, you’ll find many opportunities for sightseeing along the route. The trip can be extended with a stop at one of the region’s historic inns or bed-and-breakfasts, many of which are located close to shopping, dining and attractions. Charming riverfront communities and area parks also offer a pleasant diversion if you need to get out and stretch your legs along the way.
Regardless of the type of wine experience you’re looking for, a trip along the Indiana Wine Trail won’t leave you disappointed. That’s because the trail draws together six regional wineries, many of which also offer on-site dining. Ready to hit the road? Tour a winery or cellar, enjoy a picnic overlooking a pond or vineyard, or relax around a tasting counter at one of the following participating wineries:
Passport to Adventure
Organized by the five-county tourism marketing organization Down the Lazy River, the Indiana Wine Trail will officially open to the public at the beginning of May. The launch will coincide with National Tourism Week and will take place from May 13-21, 2006.
During the upcoming kick-off week, participating wineries along the trail will host a variety of special activities and events for both the public and media. In addition to several behind-the-scenes tours and tastings, visitors can also take part in a special VIP (Very Important Patron) Passport program.
Participants in the VIP program, which will run through May 31, 2007, will receive a passport that can be validated at each of the six participating wineries along the trail. At the conlusion of the promotion, all valid entries will be entered into a grand prize drawing for a number of winery-related prizes, including the top prize – a “Winemaker for a Day” experience.
Additional Resources
For more information on the Indiana Wine Trail, including a complete schedule of launch activities and special events, log on to www.indianawinetrail.com. The official website of the Wine Trail, it includes details on area dining, attractions, lodging and more. More information on Southeast Indiana is also available by calling 888-776-4786.