Love craft spirits? Read below and learn all about the Indiana Distillers Guild, craft distilleries in Indiana, and what to expect as you tour around the state sampling flights of locally made booze!

Nicknamed “The Hoosier State” and sometimes referred to as “The Mother of Vice Presidents”, Indiana was the 19th state to join the United States of America on December 11, 1816.

It has a population of approximately 6,732, 219 people – which makes it the 17th most populous state.

Indiana is bordered by the states of Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, and Illinois. It has a total of 36,419 square miles (94, 321 square kilometers) of water and land – making it the 38th largest state.

Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana – located in the heart of the state.

Alcohol and Indiana are two things that haven’t always been mixed – let alone shaken!

Distilleries in Indiana, in specific, have had trouble sliding up to the bar – kind of like a recently turned 21-year-old looking to buy a drink for the first time.

Jeff Musclich, a local distillery co-founder, explains that Indiana and Alcohol have always had an awkward relationship. He even jokes that the state is ‘friend-zoned’ to alcohol.

With this in mind, this article will explore everything you need to know about the distillery scene in Indiana, including the history and some of the best places to visit.

Let’s get started.

Indiana Distillers Guild

Indiana does have a distillers guild, designed to educate people and help organizations trade with each other.

Their main goal is to promote the highest quality of distilleries in Indiana and to promote awareness for local craft spirits.

The guild also ensures all state and federal laws are followed and advocated for – particularly the ones promoting the Guild Members’ ideals.

Finally, the guild aims to provide a safe space for discussion and support among the industry and consumers.

Indiana Distilleries

In 1933, prohibition ended. However, it wasn’t until 2013 (yes, 80 whole more years later!) that Indiana distillers got the right to launch their craft spirit companies legally.

Just 10 years ago, the Indiana Legislature passed the Indiana Artisan Distiller’s Permit – allowing Indiana distillers to sell their products directly to customers.

The permit enabled the launch of small industry craft distillers all throughout the state – these distillers are now hoping to become tourist attractions in their own right.

Since the permit was created, within three years, six different distilleries and tasting rooms opened up.

This includes Bear Wallow in Nashville, Cardinal Spirits in Bloomington, Huber’s Starlight Distillery in Borden, Indiana Whiskey Company in South Bend, and Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery and Broken Beaker Distillery in Indianapolis.

Since then, tons of different distilleries have opened up in the area.

Here, you can see where the product was made, meet the guys who distilled it, and then test it out in a cocktail – one of the attractive components of the Indiana Law.

Here, one small but important word is “artisan”. This allows distilleries to sell directly to customers instead of a grocery store or a distributor.

This one word allows distillers to sell by bottle, cocktail, or sample.

Before, you could own a federal distilling permit in Indiana and sell liquor through distribution, however, you weren’t allowed to sell to consumers directly.

However, strict limitations came with the law which meant that distillers had to be in business for at least three years before selling to consumers.

Eating Your Way Through Indiana

If you’re anything like us, the first thing you’ll want to know is where to eat in Indiana. Well, one area known as a foodie’s paradise is Bloomington.

Here, you’ll find 80 international restaurants, all serving cuisine from 18 different countries.

For instance, you can find Afghan Aushak, Venezuela arepas, and Tibetan momos all within a half-mile radius of each other.

In addition to being offered a global fare of incredible foods, you can find American comfort foods, too, including Memphis-style buttermilk pancake stakes and dry-rubbed ribs.

If you’re a pizza lover, then Bloomington is the perfect place for you. Here, you’ll find over 20 different places to grab a slice.

From breakfast to late-night eaters, there are a ton of eateries in Bloomington that are sure to keep your taste buds tantalized and your bellies full.

Midwestern Culture

Indiana is one of the states that contribute to the Midwest region.

While the state has a large industrial side, it is largely known for its agriculture. Here, the people pride themselves on being friendly and down-to-earth.

In the Civil War, Indiana fought with the Union, therefore, they may not share the same (now) friendly rivalry with the “Yankees”.

However, they generally considered themselves to be simple.

Monument Circle

Next time you visit Indianapolis, make sure to stop at Monument Circle. Located in the heart of the downtown area, it is a must-see destination.

Regardless of whether you stop by during an event or even in the middle of the day, it is always surrounded by life.

The Soldier and Sailors Monument isn’t one to miss. All you have to do is head toward the top of the observation deck for an amazing view of the sprawling metropolis.

If you’re feeling energetic, feel free to take the stairs, otherwise, you can simply pay a $1.00 fee to take the elevator.

Once you have captured a few photographs, make sure to head towards Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum to complete your historical experience.

Indiana Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Indiana’s State Abbreviation?

IN is the state abbreviation for Indiana.

What Is A Hoosier Nest?

If you aren’t familiar with a “Hoosier Nest”, essentially, all it is is a word for a simple frontier cabin.

The term gained popularity after statesman John Finley wrote a poem called “The Hoosier’s Nest” in praise of both his people and his state.

What Does “Indiana” Mean?

Indiana means “Indian land” or “Land of the Indians”, which refers to the different tribes of Native Americans that originated there.

In 1800, it was used by the US Congress to designate the territory that would later become what we know today as Indiana.

Final Thoughts

Indiana is a state bursting with vibrant culture and heritage. However, one that the state isn’t known for is its alcohol.

In fact, until 2013, distilleries weren’t even allowed to sell their products to customers!

Since then, there has been a massive boom in the distillery industry, with people coming far and wide to taste the products of Indiana.

Hopefully, this guide has informed you on the distillery scene in Indiana.