LAOTTO, Ind. — There is no stage more meaningful to an Indiana producer than the Indiana State Fair. This year, Country Heritage Winery and Backroads Distilling proudly brought some of the state’s highest honors home to the family farm, celebrating the quality of Indiana-grown grapes, locally crafted spirits, and the people who make it all possible.
Country Heritage Winery was named Indiana Winery of the Year and earned the competition’s highest wine honor, Indiana State Fair Wine of the Year, for its estate-grown Marquette. The winery also received Best Red Hybrid for Marquette and Best Sparkling Wine for The Moment White.
Adding to an already remarkable competition, Country Heritage earned three Double Gold medals, two Gold medals, and numerous additional medals across multiple wine categories.
Backroads Distilling also had an outstanding showing, taking home Non-Whiskey Spirit of the Year for its handcrafted Blueberry Liqueur, along with a Double Gold medal and numerous additional medals recognizing the quality of its Indiana-grown and made spirits.
“For us, these awards mean something special because they’re being awarded here at home,” said owners Jeremy and Jennifer Lutter. “Everything we create starts right here on our family farm. Our grapes and grains are grown in Indiana soil, and every bottle is crafted on site with pride by our team. To be recognized by our home state is an incredible honor.”
The Indiana State Fair Wine & Spirit Competition showcases the best wines and spirits produced throughout the state, making these awards especially meaningful for a family-owned business that has built its reputation on celebrating Indiana agriculture.
Country Heritage Winery has long believed that exceptional wines begin in the vineyard. With estate-grown fruit, hands-on winemaking, and a commitment to quality from vine to bottle, the winery continues to prove that Indiana wines can stand among the very best. The Marquette’s recognition as Indiana State Fair Wine of the Year is a testament to that philosophy.
Backroads Distilling, located alongside the winery on the Lutter family farm, continues to earn recognition for producing premium spirits that showcase local ingredients and innovative craftsmanship. Its award-winning Blueberry Liqueur has quickly become a guest favorite and now carries the distinction of Indiana’s Non-Whiskey Spirit of the Year.
These achievements reflect more than medals—they celebrate Indiana farmers, Indiana craftsmanship, and the growing reputation of the state’s wine and spirits industry.
“We’ve always been proud to say we’re Indiana grown,” the Lutters added. “Every award is a reminder that what can be produced right here in Indiana deserves to be celebrated. We’re honored to represent our state and grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way.”
Guests are invited to visit Country Heritage Winery and Backroads Distilling in LaOtto to experience these award-winning wines and spirits firsthand through tastings, handcrafted cocktails, and tours. Award-winning products are also available for purchase on site, in store and wines can be shipped to eligible states across the country.
