Mallow Run Winery

It seems a little ironic, but south central Indiana is quickly becoming known for its wineries. An extensive wine trail travels through the rolling Indiana hills from Oliver Winery in Bloomington to Turtle Run Winery in Corydon. Actually, there are probably more wineries in Indiana than most people realize – nine alone in the Indiana Upland Wine Trail.

I first heard about Mallow Run Winery near Bargersville, Indiana, from my parents. John Richardson and his son, Bill, own the winery. John just so happens to be one of my dad’s former teacher’s during his school days in New Albany, Indiana.

Mallow Run is relatively young compared to other Indiana wineries. It began growing grapes in 2000 on the family farm and its tasting room opened in 2005. The winery was named 2008 Indiana Winery of the Year.

The tasting room is probably my favorite part of this winery. It is located in the hayloft of a nineteenth century barn. It is estimated that the barn was built around 1870 but is thought to have timber from an earlier barn dating back to 1830. The name – Mallow Run – comes from a stream that runs through the farm and the farm’s original settler, George Mallow.

The 5,000-vine winery covers 8 acres of the 600 acre farm. I know what you are thinking – how do the vines make it through the winter? Well, Mallow Run grows eight varieties of grapes that are American and French-hybrids. The hybrids are a cross between native varieties and varieties present in high quality wines. These hybrids are also more tolerant to the long, cold Hoosier winters.

Mallow Run winery is open daily from noon to 6 pm. On December 11-12, 2010 Mallow Run will host a Holiday Open House from noon-6pm. The day includes complimentary tastings, food and holiday festivities. Other past events include Pizza & Wine Nights, Wine at the Line-Mallow Run 5K Run/Walk, hog roasts, and a variety of music performances.

Visit MallowRun.com for more information about the winery or check out the Indiana Upland Wine Trail site to find out about the other wineries located on the trail.