Indiana Wine Trail Takes A Look Into Swiss Wine Heritage In SE. Ind.

By Travis Thayer Ertel Cellars Winery & Restaurant in Batesville is one of six wineries on the Indiana Wine Trail. Photo provided. (Undated) – A new attraction for southeast Indiana will take a look at the history of the Swiss wine heritage in the region. Area residents are invited to visit the Indiana Wine Trail’s Fall Haul on November 5-6. The trail features six artisan wineries, each reflecting the distinct style and personality of the winemaker. Southeast Indiana, particularly Switzerland County, is known as the birthplace of the American wine industry because it was the site of the first successful winery established in America by Jean Jacques Dufour sometime around 1806 or 1807. The wineries of the region continue a history and tradition that began 200 years ago by Swiss immigrants. The Indiana Wine Trail allows visitors to sample wines and learn how climate, soil conditions and the winemaking process make every vintage a unique experience. Southeast Indiana wineries featured on the trail include: Ertel Cellars Winery & Restaurant, 3794 E. CR 1100 N., Batesville, IN 47006. Lanthier Winery, 123 Mill St., Madison, IN 47250. Madison Vineyards Estate Winery, 1456 E. 400 N., Madison, IN 47250. Ridge Winery Tasting Room, 11048 E. State Road 156, Vevay, IN 47043. Steam Cliff Farm Winery, 8225 S. CR 90 W., Commiskey, IN 47227. The Thomas Family Winery, 208 E. Second St., Madison, IN 47250. Visitors who present their Indiana Wine Trail passport at all six wineries by December 31 will receive a free gift. Anyone who completes a short survey at the completion of the trail will be entered to win a Grand Prize given away in January. For more information, visit www.indianawinetrail.com.