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Fairs & Competitions

Wines of the Midwest

By Tom DiNardo

The Indiana State Fair Wine Competition began in 1973 as an “Indiana only” event, and, in its infancy, was obviously geared to promote Indiana wine growers and later wine makers from throughout the Midwest. In 1992, Dr. Richard Vine, Purdue University Enology Professor, began allowing wine entries from around the world to participate. In 2006 Christian Butzke took over the leadership as the new Executive Director of the Indy International Wine Competition (www.in.gov/iwc) as it is now known.

Cellar Picks
Seven Hills Syrah Walla Walla 2008
The Magnificent Wine Company, The Originals Syrah, 2007 (Walla Walla WA.) $22
Apex, Merlot, 2006 (Sunnyside, WA.) $35
Penfolds, Bin 407 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007 (Australia) $33
Castello di Gabbiano, Chianti Classico Reserva DOCG, 2006 (Tuscany, Italy) $22
complete list

Value Picks
Maryhill Winemaker's Red
StoneCap Syrah 2009
Murphy Goode Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Cupcake Vineyards, Pinot Noir, 2008 (Central Coast, CA.) $14
Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Sauvignon Blanc, 2009 (CA.) $11
complete list