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Indiana Wine Tasting Train Rides: A Complete Guide

Published: May 23, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Indiana, often associated with its sprawling cornfields and vibrant racing traditions, offers a unique experience for wine lovers – wine tasting trains. The concept marries the love of locomotives with the rich, tantalizing flavors of Indiana's burgeoning wine industry.

These trains give passengers a chance to savor the state's finest wines in a setting that is both nostalgic and luxurious. There is currently one location in the state offering this unique experience, the French Lick Scenic Railway operated by the Indiana Railway Museum.

A Blend of Heritage and Modernity

Indiana's wine tasting trains offer a unique blend of heritage train journeys with the modern-day allure of wine tasting. The state, which boasts a series of charming vineyards and wineries, enhances this experience by allowing patrons to enjoy the scenic beauty of its countryside while sipping on a selection of locally crafted wines.

These journeys offer more than just sipping wine; they provide an educational tour, rich in the history and production processes of Indiana's wineries, all while traveling through some of the state's most beautiful landscapes.

The Experience on Board

Wine tasting trains often feature restored classic passenger cars (either "heavyweights" from the early 20th century with celestory roofs or more modern lightweight streamlined cars), echoing a time when railway travel was the epitome of luxury.

Onboard sommeliers educate guests about the varietals on offer. They showcase Indiana's diverse viticulture, from the robust reds and crisp whites to their distinctive hybrids.

Each wine served comes with tales of its origin, the vineyard it hails from, and the meticulous process undertaken to bring each bottle to life. It is as much a cultural journey as it is a culinary delight, with each sip adding a layer of understanding and appreciation for local viticulture.

French Lick Scenic Railway

The French Lick Scenic Railway is a beloved heritage attraction situated in southern Indiana, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. This historic railway provides an enchanting journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Hoosier National Forest, allowing passengers to revel in the area's natural beauty while enjoying a nostalgic train ride experience. The railroad operates vintage diesel locomotives and refurbished passenger cars, reminiscent of a bygone era of rail travel.

Departing from the historic French Lick Depot, the train ride typically lasts about two hours and covers approximately 20 miles round-trip. Along the way, passengers can expect to see rolling hills, dense forests, and charming rural scenery. The journey includes a swing through the impressive 2,200-foot Burton Tunnel, which adds a touch of adventure and excitement to the excursion.

In addition to its regular sightseeing trips, the railroad hosts special themed events throughout the year, including holiday-themed rides, murder mystery dinners, and train robberies, providing fun for families and enthusiasts alike.

One of their popular events for those over 21 are the Wine Tasting trains.  The railroad states this gourmet, first-class affair lasts roughly 1.5 hours and features stuffed mushrooms, Parmesan White Wine Risotto, and a French-inspired cheese plate paired with the following wines:

• Olianas Cannonau di Sardegna
• City Limits Chardonnay
• La Marca Prosecco

This railway stands as a tribute to the history of transportation in the region and offers an educational yet entertaining experience, appealing to both young and old travelers who seek to explore the rich tapestry of Indiana's railroading heritage.

Overview

Wine tasting trains in Indiana offer a refreshing and luxurious way to explore the state’s wines and scenic landscapes, merging the romanticism of train travel with the sophisticated art of wine tasting.

They allow both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Indiana’s viticulture, all while experiencing the nostalgia of a bygone era of rail travel.

Whether it’s a themed evening of intrigue and fun or a peaceful journey through Indiana's idyllic countryside, the wine tasting trains deliver a memorable experience – a toast to the pleasures of wine, travel, and discovery.