Best Wineries in Indiana: Top 15 Places to Savor the Best Wines in the Hoosier State

ByTony Parker Last Updated:

Indiana is a state known for its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is also home to some of the best wineries in the United States. Indiana’s wineries have been gaining attention in recent years, thanks to their exceptional wines, beautiful vineyards, and warm hospitality.

From the rolling hills of southern Indiana to the shores of Lake Michigan, the state is home to over 100 wineries, each offering a unique experience for wine lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, Indiana’s wineries have something for everyone. Visitors can taste award-winning wines, take a tour of the vineyards, and enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside. With so many wineries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. This article will provide a guide to the best wineries in Indiana, highlighting the unique features of each winery and what sets them apart from the rest.

Understanding Indiana’s Wine Scene

Indiana’s wine scene has been steadily growing over the past few decades. The state has a long history of wine production, dating back to the early 1800s when the first successful commercial winery in the United States was founded. Today, Indiana is home to over 100 wineries, producing a wide variety of wines.

Indiana’s wine production is concentrated in two American Viticultural Areas (AVA): the Indiana Uplands AVA and the Ohio River Valley AVA. The Indiana Uplands AVA is located in the southern part of the state and is home to the renowned Oliver Winery. The Ohio River Valley AVA covers parts of Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.

The Indiana Wine Trail is a popular way to explore the state’s wine scene. The trail travels through the southeastern region of the state and includes 7 wineries. Along the trail, visitors can taste a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites.

Indiana wineries are also known for their hospitality. Many offer tours and tastings, as well as events such as live music and food pairings. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the countryside and vineyards.

Viticulture is an important part of Indiana’s wine scene. The state’s climate and soil are well-suited for growing a variety of grapes, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Traminette. Indiana winemakers also experiment with hybrid grapes, which are better suited for the state’s climate.

Top Wineries in Indiana

Lanthier Winery

Lanthier Winery is a family-owned winery located in Madison, Indiana. They offer a variety of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. The winery also has a tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy the beautiful views of the Ohio River.

Website: https://www.lanthierwinery.com/

Address: 123 Mill St, Madison, IN 47250, United States

At the Barn Winery

At the Barn Winery is a small, family-owned winery located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. They specialize in producing handcrafted wines using traditional methods. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their rustic barn tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the scenic views.

Website: http://www.atthebarnwinery.com/

Address: 4152 N Dearborn Rd, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025, United States

Blackhawk Winery

Blackhawk Winery is located in Sheridan, Indiana, and offers a wide variety of wines, including white, red, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their cozy tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.blackhawkwinery.com/

Address: 28153 W Ditch Rd, Sheridan, IN 46069, United States

Country Heritage Winery

Country Heritage Winery is located in LaOtto, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: https://countryheritagewinery.com/

Address: 185 Co Rd 68, Laotto, IN 46763, United States

Oliver Winery

Oliver Winery is located in Bloomington, Indiana, and is one of the largest wineries in the state. They offer a wide variety of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their spacious tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.oliverwinery.com/

Address: 200 E Winery Rd, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States

Mallow Run Winery

Mallow Run Winery is located in Bargersville, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.mallowrun.com/

Address: 6964 Whiteland Rd, Bargersville, IN 46106, United States

Wildcat Creek Winery

Wildcat Creek Winery is located in Lafayette, Indiana, and offers a wide variety of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.wildcatcreekwinery.com/

Address: 3233 E 200 N, Lafayette, IN 47905, United States

Buck Creek Winery

Buck Creek Winery is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://buckcreekwinery.com/

Address: 11747 Indian Crk S Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46259, United States

Brown County Winery

Brown County Winery is located in Nashville, Indiana, and offers a wide variety of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.browncountywinery.com/

Address: 4520 IN-46 East, Nashville, IN 47448, United States

French Lick Winery

French Lick Winery is located in West Baden Springs, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.frenchlickwinery.com/

Address: 8145 W Sinclair St, West Baden Springs, IN 47469, United States

Carpenter Creek Cellars

Carpenter Creek Cellars is located in Remington, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://carpentercreekcellars.com/

Address: 11144 Jordan Rd, Remington, IN 47977, United States

Turtle Run Winery

Turtle Run Winery is located in Corydon, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.turtlerunwinery.com/

Address: 940 St Peters Church Rd NE, Corydon, IN 47112, United States

Manic Meadery

Manic Meadery is located in Crown Point, Indiana, and specializes in producing mead, a wine made from honey. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.manicmeadery.com/

Address: 1003 E Summit St Suite 3, Crown Point, IN 46307, United States

Fruit Hills Winery and Orchard

Fruit Hills Winery and Orchard is located in Bristol, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://www.fruithillswinery.com/

Address: 55503 IN-15, Bristol, IN 46507, United States

Belgian Horse Winery

Belgian Horse Winery is located in Middletown, Indiana, and offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in their tasting room or sit outside on the patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard.

Website: http://belgianhorsewinery.com/

Address: 7200 W County Rd 625 N, Middletown, IN 47356, United States

Exploring the Wine Tasting Experience

Indiana is home to some of the best wineries in the United States, offering a wide range of wine-tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors, from dry to sweet to semi-sweet, and explore the different wine selections available at each winery.

When it comes to wine tastings, Indiana wineries offer a knowledgeable and confident experience. Visitors can expect to learn about the different types of wines and the flavors they offer. Winery staff are often happy to explain the different wine-making processes and answer any questions visitors may have.

One of the most popular types of wine in Indiana is Riesling. This white wine is known for its fruity aroma and flavors of peach, apricot, and honey. Visitors can expect to find a variety of Rieslings at Indiana wineries, each with its own unique flavor profile.

Another popular white wine in Indiana is Chardonnay. This wine is known for its buttery, oaky flavor and pairs well with a variety of foods. Visitors can expect to find both oaked and unoaked Chardonnays at Indiana wineries, each with its own distinct flavor.

During wine tastings, visitors can expect to sample a variety of wines and learn about the different flavors and aromas each wine offers. Wineries often provide tasting notes and food pairing suggestions to help visitors get the most out of their wine-tasting experience.

The Diversity of Indiana Wines

Indiana may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of wine regions, but the Hoosier State has a lot to offer when it comes to wine. With over 100 wineries scattered throughout the state, Indiana’s wine industry is growing rapidly.

Indiana wineries produce a wide variety of wines, from classic red and white wines to unique fruit wines. The state is known for producing excellent Chambourcin, a red grape variety that thrives in Indiana’s climate. However, Indiana wineries also produce a variety of other grape wines, including Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Traminette.

In addition to grape wines, Indiana wineries also produce fruit wines, such as cherry, raspberry, and blackberry wines. These wines are made from locally sourced fruits and are a great way to experience the unique flavors of Indiana. Mead, a wine made from honey, is also gaining popularity in the state.

Indiana wineries offer a range of wine styles, from dry to sweet, making it easy for everyone to find a wine they enjoy. Visitors can also experience the unique terroir of Indiana by exploring the different wine trails throughout the state.

Visiting Indiana Wineries

Indiana is home to some of the best wineries in the country, and a visit to these wineries can be a great way to experience the state’s unique culture and history. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends or family, there’s something for everyone at Indiana’s wineries.

When visiting Indiana wineries, it’s important to consider the stay and staff. Many wineries offer on-site accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts or guest houses, which can make for a relaxing and convenient visit. Additionally, the staff at Indiana wineries are often knowledgeable and passionate about their craft and can provide valuable insights into the winemaking process.

The atmosphere at Indiana wineries is often cozy and welcoming, with many wineries featuring outdoor seating or patio areas where guests can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful scenery. Some wineries also offer lunch or other food options, as well as spirits and other beverages.

Visitors can also enjoy events and live music performances at many Indiana wineries, making for a fun and memorable experience. And of course, the views at Indiana wineries are often breathtaking, with many wineries located in picturesque rural areas.

For those looking to take home a bottle of their favorite wine, many Indiana wineries have on-site shops where visitors can purchase wine and other merchandise. The service at Indiana wineries is often top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff eager to make sure guests have a great experience.

Unique Features of Indiana Wineries

Indiana wineries offer unique experiences that are unlike any other wineries in the country. From family-owned wineries to refurbished barns, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the unique features of Indiana wineries:

  • Family-owned Wineries: Many of the wineries in Indiana are family-owned and operated, which adds a personal touch to the wine-tasting experience. Visitors can meet the owners and learn about the history of the winery and the wine-making process.
  • Refurbished Barns: Some Indiana wineries are located in refurbished barns, which provide a rustic and charming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in a cozy and unique setting.
  • Ice Cream Factory: One Indiana winery has an ice cream factory on site, which offers a sweet treat to enjoy alongside their great wine. Visitors can indulge in a scoop of ice cream while sipping on a glass of wine.
  • Unusual Wine Varieties: Indiana wineries offer a variety of unique and unusual wine varieties that are not commonly found in other regions. Visitors can try wines made from grapes that are specific to the area, such as Traminette and Vignoles.
  • Art Gallery: One Indiana winery has an art gallery on site, which showcases the work of local artists. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the artwork.
  • Garden Events: Some Indiana wineries host garden events, which allow visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery while sipping on great wine. These events are perfect for those who enjoy nature and wine.
  • Farming: Many Indiana wineries are located on farms, which adds to the rural and agricultural charm of the area. Visitors can learn about the farming practices and how they relate to wine-making.
  • Most-awarded Winery: One Indiana winery has won over 500 awards for its great wine, making it the most-awarded winery in Indiana. Visitors can taste their award-winning wines and see why they are so highly regarded.
  • Hard Ciders: In addition to wine, some Indiana wineries also offer hard ciders made from locally grown apples. Visitors can try a unique and refreshing cider while enjoying the winery’s beautiful surroundings.

Some of the notable family-owned wineries in Indiana include Whyte Horse Winery, owned by Jennifer and Jeremy Lutter, Carpenter Creek Cellars, owned by Deb and Don Stutz, and Huber Winery, owned by Michele and David Muir. Chris Lanthier, the winemaker at Oliver Winery, has also been recognized as one of the top winemakers in the country.

Conclusion

Indiana is home to a thriving wine industry with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Visitors to the state can enjoy a wide range of wineries and vineyards, each with their unique character and charm. From the scenic beauty of the Indiana Wine Trail to the bustling urban wineries of Indianapolis, there is something for everyone.

Some of the best wineries in Indiana include Carpenter Creek Cellars, Shady Creek Winery, and Oliver Winery. These wineries offer a diverse range of wines, from classic vinifera to sweet fruity wines. Visitors can enjoy daily free tastings and plenty of Midwestern hospitality at Carpenter Creek Cellars, while Shady Creek Winery is known for its delicious California grape wines.

Indiana’s wine regions are known for their fertile soil and humid subtropical climate, which provide the perfect conditions for viticulture. The state produces over a million gallons of wine annually, making it an important player in the American wine industry.

Visitors to Indiana can also enjoy a range of other attractions, including scenic vistas, historic sites, and delicious food. The state is famous for its pretzels, which are a perfect accompaniment to a glass of wine.