My Trip to Oliver Winery
I've been hearing about Oliver Winery for years. From friends who went to school nearby at IU to my mom who's made the quick-trip with family there's been no shortage of, " I can't believe you've never beens" and "Kenzie, YOU'D LOVE ITs." Well, the joke's on me, because I FINALLY had a chance to stop by the Midwest's largest winery based in Bloomington and was so happy to see (and taste) all that it has to offer!
Last week, my mom and I made the short drive from Carmel to Bloomington to taste a few of Oliver Winery's best wines, sample their private picnic package and see the gorgeous grounds that surround their tasting room. If you're looking for a low-key getaway with your significant other or a day long girls trip that's close to Indy then Oliver Winery is without a doubt your spot. I was so thrilled to see it in full bloom this summer and, honestly, am already planning my trip back when the leaves start to change in the fall!
ABOUT OLIVER WINERY
I have to admit, I'm a wine tasting newbie. So, I really didn't know what to expect. I'm glad that my first full tasting experience was at Oliver Winery, which is ranked as one of Travel + Leisure’s top 25 wineries to visit in the U.S. in 2017! Oliver winery has been around since 1972 and is 100% employee owned, which explains why every employee you meet is always smiling! They sell over 40 varieties of wines AND they are available online for purchase in 33 states (more here)!
I visited the tasting room, but they also have a 54 acre winery in Southern Indiana called the CreekBend. It's such a unique growing location, which is one of the reasons that they're able to test so many new grapes and wine flavors. Keep reading to see a little bit about what we did and my favorite wine picks!
WHAT WE DID
Tour of the Tasting Room and the cellar/tank room where they make the wine.
Tasting of some of the most popular wines (my favorites are listed below).
Private Picnic on the Tasting Room Patio, which included wines and a delicious charcuterie and cheese spread. It was easily my favorite part of our trip!
Explored the grounds of the tasting room (and shot plenty of 'gram worthy photos).
MY FAVORITE WINES
Blueberry Moscato: This refreshing, semi-sweet wine stopped me in my sip! It's sweet, but full of blueberry notes that left this wine tasting newbie wanting a second glass! I also learned it's a BIG fan favorite, so definitely recommend tasting if you visit.
Apple Pie Wine: I had NEVER heard of Apple Pie Wine, but it quickly became a drink I know I'll be craving when the weather starts to cool down. It's the perfect balance of tart, crisp, fresh apple and creamy that makes you feel like you're drinking fall in your glass.
Cherry Moscato: This Cherry Moscato was part of the same collection as the Blueberry. All three were light and bubbly with the perfect amount of fruity freshness. I'll definitely be purchasing this one for girl's night at my place!
So, that's a wrap on our quick trip to Oliver Winery! My mom and I had so much fun sampling a few wines and exploring the grounds. I love that we had a chance to visit and am already counting down to the next day trip we get to take there. Hopefully, I'll be seeing some of you there soon too!
XO,
K