Only in Indiana and only in March can you find an eclectic gathering as that mentioned above. How? By taking a day or two to explore the latest the "Down the Lazy River" Indiana wine trail.

I'm sure you've trekked the Indy Wine Trail, www.indywinetrail.com as it is literally right in the Broad Ripple back yard.

The Indy Uplands Wine Trail was and still is the palate pathfinder for some of the state's most delectable wines and inviting environments. www.indyuplandswinetrail.com

The latest trail winds through southeast Indiana loosely or lazily along the Ohio River. Gustatory good times found on the route include Ertel Cellars (Lobster bisque, Pumpkin ravioli and wine!) and Chateau Pomije Winery (All you can eat ribs. And wine!)

Take the slow boat and tie up in Madison, which offers more beauty but the same charm of Broad Ripple - and three of the state's stalwart wineries: Lanthier, Madison Vineyards and Thomas Family Winery. I'd say this is THE spot for good wine and food on any of the three state wine trails. Each offers marvelous wines and satisfaction for foodies who want a full service restaurant, bed and breakfast or early music with fresh local cheese, bread and sausages.

Vevay, Indiana is the birthplace of the Indiana wine industry and at one time was the Las Vegas of the US wine world. Then prohibition hit. Today the city still celebrates each year in the fall with a full-on wine festival, but you can sip nostalgia any time at the Ridge Winery Tasting room. And watch the games on Greg's Big Screen TV. A true blend of time and taste.

Maps and events and more at www.indianawines.org or www.IndianaWineTrail.com

2005 Clos Pegase, Mitsukos Vineyard Chardonnay- Ripe, rich, lush. An incredible value under 20 bucks.

2006 St. Supery Unoaked Chardonnay- Exploding tropical fruit flavors- pineapple, banana, guava. So much fresh fruit tannin makes it hard to drink alone, so needs ripe cheeses, Indian curries, Bazbeaux Quattro Formaggio pizza to tame the delicious but YOUNG tannins. The flavor is there and outstanding and if you can wait 6 months to a year, it's worth buying and laying down then serving with Thanksgiving dinner. Paired with turkey, taters and stuffing, would be amazing.

2001 St. Supery Elu- Rich, supple, Bordeaux blend from California. Enticing aromas of black berries, raspberries, plums. Big bold flavors of black fruit softened nicely with age makes for terrific food partner with grilled meats, Italian lasagna or meat sauced pasta, Lamb shawarma, or veggie burgers.