Indiana Wine Industry Continues Momentum

News Coverage:
Inside Indiana Business

Indiana Wine Industry Continues Momentum

updated: 10/2/2012

Andy Ober, InsideINdianaBusiness.com

Indianas growing wine industry may receive another boost as a northeast Indiana winery looks to expand. Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard in LaOtto is seeking tax abatement on an $825,000 project. The DeKalb County vineyard plans to increase production and double its work force.
Country Heritage intends to invest nearly $500,000 in building upgrades and more than $300,000 in new machinery for the facility. The company currently employs 12 workers, and plans to hire 14 more as part of the expansion.

DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership Director Ken McRory says he's hopeful that the abatement will be approved. He says he's optimistic because Country Heritage is an agricultural business, which is one of the area's "target sectors."

The potential expansion comes two months after Indiana's first "Wine of the Year" medal at the annual Indy International Wine Competition. Indiana Wine Grape Council Marketing Director Jeanette Merritt says the state's industry is growing, as many Hoosier vineyards are planting more grapes and plans are in place for potential new wineries.

Source: DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership, Inside INdiana Business