Ertel Cellars Winery Bistro: Batesville's Hidden Gem? Reviews & More
Is it possible to find a slice of culinary paradise nestled within the heartland? Ertel Cellars Winery Bistro in Batesville, Indiana, not only suggests it, but delivers a dining experience that has garnered widespread acclaim and a loyal following.
Batesville, a town known for its charm and community spirit, is home to Ertel Cellars Winery Bistro. The establishment has earned a remarkable 4.5 out of 5 rating on TripAdvisor, based on 224 unbiased reviews. This impressive score has positioned the bistro as the #1 ranked restaurant out of 20 in Batesville, a testament to its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. It is a central hub on the Indiana Wine Trail, a point of pride and a draw for wine enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
Ertel Cellars Winery, established in 1999, boasts a long-standing presence in the region. The winery and restaurant officially opened its doors in 2006, a culmination of years of dedication to viticulture and gastronomy. Over the years, the establishment has refined its offerings, creating a diverse menu, an inviting ambiance, and a reputation for outstanding service. Whether one is a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual diner, the bistro presents a range of experiences tailored to suit many preferences.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Name | Ertel Cellars Winery Bistro |
| Location | 3794 East County Road, 1100 North, Batesville, IN 47006 |
| Cuisine Type | American Bistro with Winery |
| Specialty | Wine and Restaurant with a variety of lunch, dinner, and brunch options. |
| Years in Operation | Winery since 1999, Bistro since 2006 |
| Key Features | Vineyard, Restaurant, Wine Tasting, Gift Shop, Full Dinner Menu, Brunch on Sundays, Seafood Buffet (Fridays) |
| Wine Production | Cabernet Sauvignon, Marechal Foch, Vignoles, Blueberry, Pink Catawba, and Vidal Dessert Wine. |
| Recognition | Part of the Indiana Wine Trail, Ranked #1 Restaurant in Batesville on TripAdvisor |
| Noteworthy Mentions | Friendly Service, Pleasant Atmosphere |
| Customer Base | Local, Regional, Tourists, Wine Enthusiasts |
| Reference Link | Indiana Wine Trail |
The Indiana Wine Trail plays a significant role in Ertel Cellars' identity. Being a part of the trail allows the winery to connect with wine enthusiasts from across the region and beyond. Visitors who complete the entire wine trail are rewarded with a free souvenir wine glass, incentivizing exploration of the participating wineries. The Indiana Wine Trail's website provides detailed maps of winery locations, along with information on lodging and other local attractions, further enhancing the visitor experience.
A visit to Ertel Cellars is more than just a meal; it's an experience. Patrons have described the atmosphere as pleasant, the service as friendly, and the food as satisfying. While the cheese plate may have fallen short of expectations for some, the diverse menu features offerings that cater to a variety of palates. Customers have raved about the grouper and the burgers paired with potato soup. The bistro has consistently earned positive reviews, drawing in both locals and travelers seeking a quality dining experience. The combination of a relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and flavorful dishes results in an enjoyable meal that often warrants a return visit.
For those who have frequented grocery stores and big box stores in the area, the name Ertel Cellars may already be familiar. Their wines have been available for years, increasing their brand recognition and customer base. The winery is not just a restaurant; it is also a destination, a place where the love of wine and the appreciation of good food combine seamlessly. For those unable to visit the winery and bistro directly, Ertel Cellars wines are available at numerous retail locations. These convenient locations, updated periodically, provide access to the winery's selection, allowing customers to enjoy their wines even when a trip to the restaurant isn't feasible.
The menu at Ertel Cellars Winery is designed to appeal to a variety of tastes. For lunch, diners can choose from a selection of sandwiches. The "Lub" sandwich includes ham, turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado aioli on multigrain bread. The "Hot Ham and Cheese" is a classic, featuring ham, smoked gouda cheese, and fig compote on sourdough. The "Ken" sandwich offers a lighter option with tomato, red onion, fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, and a brioche bun. Additionally, the menu often includes specials such as sauted chicken, cedar plank salmon, shrimp scampi, and grilled pork chops.
The diverse menu is a reflection of Ertel Cellars commitment to providing a memorable dining experience. The sandwiches offer a variety of flavor combinations, and the entrees offer a selection of popular dishes, ensuring something for everyone. The lunch menu also features options like the California Club, Sriracha Fried Shrimp, Balsamic Glazed Chicken Sandwich, and Blackened Shrimp Tacos. This broad selection helps Ertel Cellars cater to varied palates, guaranteeing that every visit offers an enjoyable experience. Whether it's a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Ertel Cellars makes certain that there is something for every diner.
One of the notable features of Ertel Cellars is its approach to dining. The restaurant offers a full dinner menu for those seeking a more comprehensive meal. Brunch on Sundays is another popular option, providing guests with a delightful experience. The brunch buffet often includes made-to-order omelets, pasta dishes, and a variety of breakfast and lunch items, along with delicious desserts. The restaurant also hosts a seafood buffet on Friday nights, giving patrons even more options and experiences. The restaurant is the perfect setting for a getaway with friends, a special occasion, or even a spontaneous gathering.
Ertel Cellars also produces a range of wines, including their own version of white Zinfandel, known as Blush Table Wine. This wine, characterized by its crispness and cherry flavors, is available by the bottle or glass and pairs well with many appetizers and entrees. The Vidal Dessert Wine, a late harvest wine, has a pale yellow color, a clean aroma, and a pleasingly sweet flavor, perfect for finishing a meal. Besides these, Ertel Cellars produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Marechal Foch, Vignoles, Blueberry, and Pink Catawba wines. Wine retail locations by city offer convenient access for purchase.
The gift shop at Ertel Cellars is another noteworthy feature, offering wine-related items and bottles of Ertel Cellars wines. This provides patrons with the opportunity to extend their experience, perhaps purchasing a bottle of wine to enjoy at home, or choosing a unique gift for a friend or loved one. Ertel Cellars is committed to providing a comprehensive dining experience, from the food and wine to the ambiance and customer service.
The establishment caters to a wide audience, including those who have grown accustomed to high-end dining experiences. The offerings include food and wine to atmosphere and customer service. The brunch buffet has proven to be a draw for families, offering made-to-order omelets and pasta stations, along with various breakfast and lunch choices and a range of desserts. The positive reviews highlight the overall appeal of the restaurant and the winery. Whether you are seeking a casual lunch, a special dinner, or a relaxing brunch, Ertel Cellars Winery Bistro in Batesville, Indiana provides a memorable culinary experience.
