With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, love, but more importantly, wine, is in the air. With more than 200+ wineries across Indiana, what distinguishes a winery from the pack?
Although it’s hard to have a bad time when tasting wine, we’ve found a few wineries across the state that have gone above and beyond to make your visit just that much more special. From atmosphere to entertainment, there is more than just wine that makes for the perfect winery experience.
Here are six reasons why the Family-Owned Shady Creek winery stood out as the perfect place to plan your Galentine's Day celebrations and many more trips from here on out.
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1. Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
Although the newly renovated and expanded winery carried a chic and modern glow, we were impressed that it still felt cozy and inviting to its core. Despite being winter, typically a slower season for wineries, Shady Creek was bustling with energy.
A grand fireplace marked the center of the main tasting room, and we were delighted to see it burning, which only added to the cozy atmosphere. The staff was unbelievably friendly and educated on their products, making us feel right at home.
Plenty of seating was available inside, along with outside patios and porches. However, calling ahead if you have a larger group is advised. Private event rooms are available for rental, and with the gorgeous landscape and phenomenal staff, it’s easy to see why you would want to schedule a special night here.
2. The Igloo Village
For those of us who hate being cooped up inside, even during bitterly cold winter evenings, you’ll be delighted to find three different themed igloos available for reservation. Each igloo comfortably seats six or more and has a space heater and throw blankets to make sure you stay extra warm and cuddly, although we recommend ordering a warm mug of mulled wine just to be sure to keep away the winter blues.
There is no fee to reserve the igloos; however, there is a 100-dollar minimum spending requirement to use the space.
You can select from "Cozy Cabin," "Winter Wonderland," or our personal favorite, "Candy Land," and reserve just as you would a table inside the restaurant…only with a little more privacy for all the juicy gossip you have to fill your girls in on.
3. Trivia Nights
If you and your friends like a bit of friendly competition, trivia nights are open to the public and offered monthly. Although the themes vary, you can be assured that ½ priced bottles of wine are available every Tuesday. Get a team together and split a bottle. That way, you'll still have a winning evening either way.
A reminder that ½ off bottles of wine are only available to dine-in customers.
Next Trivia Theme: The Office: March 5th, 5:00 pm-7:00 pm
4. Wine and Canvas Nights
We can’t think of a more therapeutic way to meet new friends and catch up with old ones than over a paintbrush and a little wine. Even if you don’t think you have a crafty bone in your body, a glass of wine may bring out your inner Picasso. Included in the price of this guided painting class are all materials, supplies, canvases, and wine required to make the perfect evening.
Next Wine and Canvas Night: March 21st: 5:00 p.m. -7:00 pm
Ticket available for purchase here ($47)
5. Live Music
Once you’ve created your masterpiece and are ready to sit back and enjoy your new favorite wine by the fireplace, live music is offered every Friday and Sunday. The full schedule of artists is available online, and there is no additional cover charge on these nights.
6. A Full Food Menu
Not that we don’t love cheese and crackers, because who doesn’t love cheese and crackers, but it’s not very often you find a winery with such a vast food menu. If you want to enjoy a meal as part of your winery experience, you'll be pleased to know Shady Creek offers a diverse menu that includes soups, salads, flatbreads, burgers, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and much more.
Our personal favorite? The Crispy Brussels Sprouts- Absolutely delicious!
To reserve a tasting, visit Shady Creek Winery's Official Website.
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Looking for the perfect gift to surprise your sweetheart this Valentine's Day? Check out our ultimate Valentine's Day Gift Guide For Travelers here.
Sending love and good wine from Indiana,
Kaitlyn
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