The Story Behind Our Spirits
Step off the beaten path to Southeast Indiana, a place where handcrafted wine, beer and spirits have been a part of our history for generations. Where touring and tasting can lead you places you’ve never been. Relax at a scenic winery, meet up with friends at an historic brewery, or celebrate our whiskey heritage – one sip at a time.
As one of Indiana’s oldest counties, Dearborn County takes its history seriously, including strong historical ties to the brewing and distilling industries. In fact, Southeast Indiana has been producing both distilled spirits and beer for more than 200 years, making this an important part of the community’s heritage.
Today, MGP Ingredients of Indiana (formerly Joseph E. Seagram and Sons) continues the tradition started in 1803 that earned the City of Lawrenceburg the nickname, “Whiskey City,” creating exceptional bourbon and whiskey products of the highest quality. The beverages produced by the company’s Lawrenceburg-based Ross & Squibb Distillery are known by whiskey connoisseurs – and casual tasters – from around the world.
Nestled in the rolling hills of northern Dearborn County lies At The Barn winery, a family-owned estate winery specializing in small-batch wines of 25 gallons or less. Flavorful vintages abound, with grape varieties such as Concord, Chancellor, Muscadine, Niagara, and Catawba and more growing right on the property, in addition to wine-bearing fruits such as berries, apples, peaches and pears. The result is a full assortment of award-winning wine for all tastes, from dry oaked reds to sweet dessert varieties. True to its namesake, At The Barn features a large renovated barn that has been in the family since the 1840s, and where visitors can sit and stay for a bit, soaking up the atmosphere of the beautiful farm-like property. At the Barn, which is open seasonally, is family friendly, and welcomes kids. The winery also features regular live music at a full range of fun classes, including wine glass painting, porch sign painting, wine and canvas events, and more.
European winemakers first settled in the Ohio River valley in the early nineteenth century. Now, Southeast Indiana wineries are continuing these winemaking traditions first established generations ago. Situated along and around the Ohio River Scenic Byway, the region’s local wineries (including our very own Holtkamp Winery and Vineyards) are prepared to welcome you. Located in the rolling countryside outside of New Alsace and known for their award-winning vintages, Holtkamp offers a large selection of wines ranging from dry and semi-dry red and white wines to sweet fruit wines and dessert wines. The family-owned (and family-friendly) estate winery features an onsite tasting room as well as a deck overlooking the vineyards and pond open to the public during the warmer months. Previously named as Indiana’s “Farm Winery of the Year,” Holtkamp’s relaxing atmosphere, handcrafted wine, brick-oven pizza, and special events make it popular with wine lovers all year round.
Down a side street in the 200-year-old city of Aurora, visitors will find an 1843 historic warehouse producing some of the region’s best microbrews. Kick back and relax in a spacious historic setting of Great Crescent Brewery – and discover what’s brewing in this charming small town located right along the Ohio river. In the mid-19th century, the Gaff brothers of Aurora (one of whom owned the stately Hillforest Mansion) launched a beer-making enterprise they dubbed the Crescent Brewery, which over the next 16 years enjoyed a national presence, particularly in the South. Now, Great Crescent Brewery continues that tradition. Produced with fresh malt, fresh hops and whole ingredients, the brewery’s award-winning handcrafted beers and ales have gained a following throughout the region. The onsite Taproom also offers weekend food service, with a menu featuring fresh, local and seasonal favorites including burgers, pulled pork, barbecued ribs, artisan-style sandwiches, salads and more.
Dearborn County Convention, Visitor & Tourism Bureau
320 Walnut Street • Lawrenceburg, IN • 800-822-8198
www.VisitSoutheastIndiana.com • www.tourforthecure.info
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