Known as the Crossroads of America, the state of Indiana isn’t often recognized for its wine culture. However, you would not know this if you found yourself about an hour outside of Indianapolis in the small town of Greencastle. With a population of approximately 10,000 people, Greencastle, mostly a farming community, is home to Bridges Craft Pizza & Wine Bar and to The Wine Merchant.
Located on the historic town square, both Bridges and The Wine Merchant, are the vision of Joyce and Judson Green who wanted to bring interesting wines to this Midwest community. To achieve this mission, they hired as consultant, esteemed Master Sommelier and restaurateur, George Miliotes. Interestingly, before beginning his renowned career, George graduated from DePauw University, which calls Greencastle home and coincidentally is also the alma mater of Joyce and Judson. Another fun fact about the relationship of the Greens and Miliote is the fact that both Judson and George worked for the Walt Disney Company at one point in their careers.
Bridges, which name is a homage to the significant amount of historic covered bridges in the region, was the first of the projects to take flight. The restaurant consists of the main dinning area, a cellar that also doubles as a dining room and a rooftop. The spaces are rustic and elegant and the menu revolves around fresh ingredients and a pizza oven that was brought in from Italy to craft their mouthwatering pies. Their Wise Guy Pizza consists of salami, prosciutto, ‘Nduja, bacon jam, mozzarella and red sauce and it is one of our all time favorites, especially when paired with a glass of the Bedrock Wine Company Old Vine Zinfandel. The wine list, as to be expected, has been carefully curated and in it you can find interesting jewels like a sparkling Rosé from Jura, France or a crisp Alvarinho from Portugal.
The Wine Merchant opened its doors in 2022 and is housed in the historic building that once housed Eli Lilly’s first pharmacy. The space is a wine shop and wine bar and the Green’s mission of showcasing interesting wines continues to be reflected with the wines available. Equipped with automated pouring stations, this wine bar is the perfect playground for curious wine drinkers. And, if you are a sushi lover, on Thursdays and Fridays, you can enjoy their pop up sushi concept called Umami.
If you find yourself exploring the Crossroads of America, a great wine & dine experience in Greencastle, Indiana might be in your cards. When you visit, we suggest that you first enjoy a few glasses of wine at The Wine Merchant to work up your appetite and then walk across the street to Bridges to enjoy a delicious experience inspired by Chef Sal Fernandez.
