West Coast Winners

Indiana's oldest and arguably most successful winery, Oliver, is once again putting consumer needs first. The Bloomington-based winery grows most of the grapes that go into its large lineup. But a few varietals just don't like the Indiana climate and soil, so the winery does bring in some outside fruit to produce a couple of bottles.

I recently talked with winery president Bill Oliver who told me they wanted to give consumers the chance to experience a California wine at an affordable price. So they partnered with a number of grape growers in Washington and California, bought their grapes, brought them to Indiana and created the new "VINE series". Bill told me they tasted through dozens of samples before deciding on the final line up which includes a fresh and fruity Moscato, a rich Chardonnay and an easy drinking dry red blend.

Most of Oliver's elegant estate bottled wines cost $15-$20 and up. The new VINE SERIES will sell for less than ten bucks. And be available at local supermarkets in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. A stylish label and continued Oliver quality gives wine lovers another reason to lift a glass or two.

Oliver Red Blend - This ready to drink dry red is made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. It's super smooth with subtle notes of black cherry and cocoa. The perfect bottle for burgers or brats on the grill. I shared a bottle with some friends and they all loved the easy accessibility of fruit and flavor.

I asked Bill about the winter on the vineyard. He said it took a toll. Like all of us he hopes that spring is here to stay with no surprise frost or hail.

As for selling wine and beer during the Indiana State Fair, he thinks there will most likely be wine and beer from all over the US and world available but is excited that Indiana will have a chance to showcase its own as well. Which makes wines like the Vineyard Series a great example of how successful a collaboration can be for both the vintner and the consumer.