There wasn't much to toast about from the outcome of the 2014 Indiana Legislative Session. With the possible exception of the fact that North Carolina is now the only state in the US that does not allow wine or beer to be sold during its State Fair. Our elected officials lifted Indiana out of the seller cellar by approving a bill that allows the State Fair to create an area where beer and wine can be sold and consumed to those over 21. Can't take it with you. And said wine and beer doesn't necessarily have to be Indiana made. Bet alot of the marketing savvy members of the Indiana Brewers Guild are not hoppy (craft beer joke!) about that part of the measure but Governor Pence signed it, so the law gets its first free run (wine joke!) during this year's State Fair August 1-17.

Perhaps it's one way for the Indiana legislature and the Governor to take a serious look at the wine industries of nearby Michigan. And better yet New York. The New York wine industry on its own brings in 5 BILLION, yes BILLION, dollars of economic growth to the state each year. Michigan isn't far behind. Why? Because both of these states have lawmakers who respect, support and do all they can to encourage the growth of the wine industry in those states. It's a remarkable and encouraging story and worth a read at www.newyorkwines.org

With over 70 breweries making craft beer in Indiana it shouldn't be hard to offer an affordable, eclectic variety for fair-goers. But I am sure the big guys (Budweiser and Miller) will more likely than not be the pours on tap. The same thing could be said for Indiana wines. So many different styles from all over the state. Some sweet, some dry, some made from fruit, some from wine grapes. The historic Oliver Camelot Mead should be part of the menu. As should Easley Winery's multi award winning example of Indiana's signature grape, traminette. It's not last call yet so we will wait and see what happens.

Learn more at www.brewersguildofindiana.org and www.indianawines.org

And if you haven't had a chance to sample Easley's traminette-give it a try. Many of Easley's wines are available at Kroger and Marsh. It's crisp, lush semi dry white with floral notes on the nose and inviting flavors of white peach, apricot and a clean finish. Pair it with a Ham and Cheese Braided Bread from Perk Up Cafe and celebrate SPRING in the Village!