Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v10n10)
The Wine Scene - by Jill A. Ditmire
posted: May 24, 2013

Vintage Indiana 2014
It's time once again to celebrate Indiana wines at Vintage Indiana. It's the 14th year for the day of wine, food, and music in Military Park on Saturday, June 1, 11am-7pm.
This year 28 wineries will have tents offering samples of a variety of wines, hard ciders, ports, and distilled spirits. Try new vintners like Grateful Goat, Monkey Hollow and Wildcat Creek. Visit old favorites Winzerwald, Satek, Turtle Run and French Lick. Sample wines then buy bottles to enjoy on site or take home. There's a handy drive up pick up area where you can leave your wines until you are ready to leave the grounds.
A dozen food vendors offering the likes of ribs, pizza, burgers, ice cream and kettle korn will be available to nosh in between sips.
An artisans area with wine related goodies, locally produced food products, and clothing is a great way to take a break from sampling the over 300 wines available to taste that day.
The music lineup is top notch too with Josh Gracin, Cari Ray and Jenni De Voe performing throughout the day.
I will once again be hosting the "Wine and Food Experience" pavilion where chefs will create dishes to pair with Indiana wines. Free food samples along with easy to use info.
Designated Drivers get in for reduced rate. Overnight hotel packages are available at the nearby JW Marriott. Advance tickets available at Marsh or on line are $22 and $25 at the gate. Must show ID. www.vintageindiana.com for full details.
Spring Time Swills:
It's time to lighten up our palates. Here are some thirst quenchers that will give you Spring wine and beer fever.
Canella Peach Bellini and Blood Orange Mimosa, Italy-sparkling prosecco base with either peach nectar or blood orange juice added. Gorgeous in the glass as well.
Santa Julia PLUS Pinot Grigio, Argentina-crisp clean notes of tropical fruit; organic and less than $10 a bottle.
Rib Shack Red, South Africa (pinotage/shiraz)-gutsy blend that satisfies; perfect grog for grilled burgers, brats, steaks.
Estrella Damm Daura gluten-free beer, Spain-made with grains but high tech process removes gluten but not flavor. Lager style.
Celt Native Storm, Wales-organic craft beer with hoppy edge and touch of biscuit goodness.
Shiner Ruby Redbird, Texas-Lager style brewed with red grapefruit. Tangy and refreshing post-lawn mowing drink.
Just in time for the track... Box Wine!!
Gran Verano Sauvignon Blanc, Central Valley, Chile-$28 for the box of tangy, crisp dry white wine that equals 4 bottles or 3 liters. Checkered flag please!
Badger Mountain Pure Red, Washington-organic blend of dry rich red grapes. $30 for box that equals 4 bottles of 3 liters. Vroom Vroom!
Jill A. Ditmire is an Omnimedia wine specialist, AWS certified wine judge, freelance broadcast journalist and 20+ year home owner in the Warfleigh neighborhood of Broad Ripple. Send your questions and comments to Jill at
jill@broadripplegazette.com
Also on INSTAGRAM @jaditmire
jill@broadripplegazette.com