When you consider Indiana, do images of thriving breweries, sophisticated wineries, and innovative distilleries come to mind? Perhaps not immediately, but prepare to have your perceptions delightfully challenged! Today, we’re embarking on an exciting journey to explore the vibrant world of craft beverages flourishing right in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana.
It’s a confession I gladly make: before my visit, Indiana’s reputation for exceptional wines, unique beers, and expertly crafted spirits wasn’t on my radar. However, during my immersive trip to Bloomington, I had the incredible opportunity to tour some of the region’s finest establishments, including the esteemed Oliver Winery, the pioneering Upland Brewing Company, and the inventive Cardinal Spirits. What I discovered left an indelible impression – Bloomington boasts an unexpectedly sophisticated and utterly captivating cocktail and wine scene that truly deserves recognition.
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Exploring Bloomington’s Thriving Craft Beverage Scene: Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries
Bloomington, Indiana, a dynamic city often recognized for Indiana University, is rapidly carving out a name for itself as a premier destination for craft beverage enthusiasts. From award-winning wines crafted from locally grown grapes to innovative beers pushing the boundaries of flavor, and meticulously distilled spirits, there’s a rich tapestry of tastes waiting to be explored. Let’s dive deeper into some of the must-visit establishments that make Bloomington a true gem for connoisseurs and casual visitors alike.
Oliver Winery & Vineyards: A Midwestern Wine Icon
Stepping onto the grounds of Oliver Winery is an experience in itself. As one of Indiana’s oldest and largest wineries, established in 1972, Oliver has cultivated a reputation not just for its exceptional wines but also for its stunning estate. My visit coincided with an event there, and the ambiance was nothing short of gorgeous. The expansive grounds, meticulously maintained vineyards, and inviting tasting rooms create an idyllic setting perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you’re strolling through the gardens or enjoying a glass on their beautiful deck, the winery offers a truly memorable escape.
During my tasting, I was particularly captivated by the 2014 Creekbend Catawba. This varietal truly thrives in the warm Indiana summers, allowing the grapes to develop a rich sweetness that bursts with vibrant flavors of strawberry and peach. The balance of fruit and acidity was exquisite, making it an incredibly refreshing and enjoyable wine. I found myself regretting not picking up a bottle – or perhaps three – to bring home and savor. The Creekbend line, specifically their estate-grown wines, showcases Oliver’s dedication to quality and their deep understanding of Indiana’s unique terroir.
Oliver Winery boasts an impressive and diverse portfolio designed to cater to every palate. From crisp, dry white wines perfect for a summer’s day to robust, dry red wines that pair beautifully with hearty meals, their selection is extensive. They also offer a delightful range of semi-dry and semi-sweet wines, often featuring notes of fresh fruit, alongside unique honey wines and luscious dessert wines. Another standout during my visit was the 2013 Creekbend Catawba Late Harvest. This dessert wine offered a more concentrated expression of the Catawba grape, with easily detectable and intensely pleasurable notes of peach, watermelon, and strawberry. It’s the perfect finish to any meal or a delightful treat on its own.
Beyond the tastings, Oliver Winery frequently hosts events, from live music to food trucks, further enhancing the visitor experience. Their commitment to hospitality and quality has firmly established them as a cornerstone of the Midwestern wine industry, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Bloomington’s craft beverage scene.
Butler Winery: A Pioneering Spirit with a Cult Following
Nestled just a short drive outside of Bloomington, Butler Winery holds a significant place in Indiana’s winemaking history. Opening its doors in 1983, it proudly stands as the fourth oldest winery in the state, a testament to its enduring quality and pioneering spirit. Butler Winery offers a more intimate and rustic experience compared to some of its larger counterparts, allowing visitors to truly connect with the passion behind their handcrafted wines. Open year-round, they consistently deliver exceptional wines that draw both local devotees and curious travelers.
If you find yourself anywhere near Bloomington, making a pilgrimage to pick up a bottle of Butler Blueberry Wine is not just recommended, it’s practically mandatory! Seriously, prepare for an explosion of flavor that will leave you exclaiming, “OH MY GOODNESS, YUM!” This wine is an absolute sensation. Its rich, sweet, and authentic blueberry taste is incredibly addictive and wonderfully refreshing. I brought a bottle home with me, and I can’t wait to enjoy its vibrant flavors out on the deck, basking in the warm sunshine. It is, without exaggeration, so unbelievably good that it has garnered a loyal following.
While the Blueberry Wine is undoubtedly a star, Butler Winery offers a variety of other fruit wines and traditional grape wines, all crafted with the same dedication to quality. Their tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere where you can explore their full range, often with friendly staff eager to share the stories behind each bottle. Butler Winery represents the heart and soul of local winemaking, offering a charming experience and unforgettable flavors that truly embody the spirit of Indiana’s craft beverage movement.
Upland Brewing Company: Craft Beer Innovation and Culinary Excellence
For devoted beer enthusiasts, Upland Brewing Company is a non-negotiable stop that promises to exceed all expectations. But don’t let the name fool you – foodies, too, will find themselves in gastronomic heaven, as Upland is celebrated not only for its exceptional craft beers but also for its truly amazing food offerings. Since its founding in 1998, Upland has become a cornerstone of the Indiana craft beer scene, known for its innovation, quality, and commitment to sustainable practices.
At the core of Upland’s philosophy, both for their food and their beer, are fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. This dedication ensures that every pint and every plate delivers an authentic and high-quality experience. Their brewing team consistently pushes creative boundaries, resulting in a diverse and dynamic beer list that caters to all preferences, from classic ales and lagers to experimental sour ales and barrel-aged masterpieces.
One particular beer I encountered during my visit truly surprised and delighted me: an orchid sour ale. I had never even heard of such a creation before stepping into Upland Brewing Company! Crafted with edible orchids, this unique beer offered a mild, subtly sweet floral fragrance that translated into a delicate and intriguing flavor profile. It was a testament to Upland’s willingness to innovate and explore unconventional ingredients, resulting in a truly memorable tasting experience. Beyond their rotating seasonal and specialty brews, Upland maintains a strong lineup of flagship beers that are consistently excellent, including their popular Dragonfly IPA, Wheat Ale, and Bad Elmer’s Porter.
The culinary experience at Upland is just as impressive as their beer. Their menu features elevated pub fare, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients that perfectly complement their extensive beer list. From gourmet burgers and sandwiches to inventive appetizers and hearty main courses, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or simply enjoying a few pints with friends. Upland Brewing Company is a complete package, offering a fantastic blend of craft beer innovation, delicious food, and a wonderful community vibe.
Cardinal Spirits: Crafting Excellence, One Spirit at a Time
For those with a penchant for impeccably crafted spirits and unique liqueurs, Cardinal Spirits is the destination in Bloomington. This modern and innovative distillery is a beacon for artisanal production, dedicated to creating a diverse range of premium spirits from scratch, with a focus on quality, creativity, and local ingredients. Their commitment shines through in every bottle, making them a standout in the burgeoning craft spirits movement.
Cardinal Spirits produces a remarkable handful of craft liqueurs and base spirits that cater to a wide array of tastes. Their offerings include exceptionally smooth Vodka, perfect for any cocktail, alongside two distinct gins: the classic botanical American Gin and the traditional juniper-forward Standard Dry Gin. Rum enthusiasts will appreciate their unique Tiki Rum, which brings a tropical flair, while whiskey lovers can savor the complexity of their White Oak Whiskey, aged to perfection. However, where Cardinal Spirits truly shines is in its inventive liqueurs, particularly the Songbird Flora and the highly acclaimed Songbird Craft Coffee Liqueur, as well as the Bramble Black Raspberry Vodka.
During my visit to Cardinal Spirits, I heard countless rave reviews about the Songbird Craft Coffee Liqueur, and for good reason! This isn’t just any coffee liqueur; it’s a meticulously crafted spirit born from a collaboration with the local coffee shop, Hopscotch Coffee. The liqueur is cold-brewed using freshly roasted coffee beans from Hopscotch, ensuring a deep, rich, and authentic coffee flavor that truly sets it apart. The result is a beautifully balanced coffee vodka with nuanced notes of luscious caramel, delicate vanilla, and decadent chocolate, all harmoniously interwoven with the robust essence of premium coffee. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for sipping neat, over ice, or as the star in a sophisticated cocktail.
Speaking of cocktails, Cardinal Spirits offers some fantastic recipes to showcase their creations. Here’s how you can enjoy their Songbird Craft Coffee Liqueur in a refreshing and elegant drink:
Cafe A L’Orange
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Songbird Craft Coffee Liqueur
- 1.5 oz Cardinal Spirits Vodka
- Orange Peel for garnish
Directions:
- Combine the Songbird Craft Coffee Liqueur and Cardinal Spirits Vodka in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a small old fashioned glass over a large, single ice cube.
- Garnish with a fresh orange peel to enhance the citrus notes.
Be sure to also check out the captivating Songbird Flora! This unique liqueur is distilled with an enchanting blend of edible flowers and berries, offering a delicate, aromatic, and distinctly floral profile that is truly one-of-a-kind. It’s perfect for light, refreshing cocktails, bringing a touch of botanical elegance to your glass.
Here’s a simple yet exquisite way to enjoy the Songbird Flora:
Flora Spritzer
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz Songbird Flora
- Fresh lemon juice (a generous squeeze)
- Club soda
- Edible flower or lemon slice for garnish
Directions:
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Add the Songbird Flora and a fresh squeeze of lemon juice.
- Top generously with club soda.
- Garnish with an edible flower for an aesthetic touch, or a simple lemon slice.
Cardinal Spirits offers tours and tastings, providing an insightful look into their distillation process and the passion that goes into every bottle. Their on-site bar also serves up expertly crafted cocktails featuring their own spirits, making it an ideal place to relax and savor their creations.
Why Bloomington is a Must-Visit for Craft Beverage Lovers
Bloomington, Indiana, with its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful natural surroundings, and the energy of Indiana University, offers a surprising yet incredibly rewarding destination for anyone keen to explore the world of craft beverages. The combination of established institutions like Oliver Winery and Upland Brewing, alongside innovative newcomers like Cardinal Spirits and charming local favorites like Butler Winery, creates a diverse and high-quality landscape. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and where local ingredients are celebrated in every sip.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur seeking new discoveries or a casual traveler looking for unique experiences, Bloomington truly has something for everyone. From the rolling vineyards to bustling brewpubs and sleek distilleries, each stop offers a distinct flavor and a story waiting to be told.
Planning Your Bloomington Beverage Adventure
To make the most of your visit, consider planning ahead. Many establishments offer tours and tastings, which can be booked in advance, especially during peak seasons. Designated drivers or ride-sharing services are highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Bloomington also boasts a fantastic culinary scene, so be sure to pair your beverage explorations with some of the city’s excellent restaurants.
If you are planning a trip to Indiana, making a stop in Bloomington is undoubtedly well worth your time. Prepare to be impressed by the quality, variety, and passion that defines its craft beverage scene.
Additional Indiana Resources for Your Trip
Extend your Indiana adventure with these helpful guides:
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Explore the Vera Bradley Design Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana
A Guide to National Parks and Sites in Indiana