Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
The Moment
“Be in the moment!” This mantra has long guided my adventures, reminding me that the present holds unexpected treasures. I saw just how true that was on a recent camping trip with my best friend, his brother, and our guide—a trip that took an unforeseen turn.
We initially envisioned a rugged overnight hike in the backwoods—an adventure to trek part of the “River-to-River” trail in Illinois. It would be just man, nature, and the will to survive. But as scorching temperatures set in, our plans gradually changed. First, we scaled the trip back to day hikes with comfortable camping facilities. Then, as the heat intensified, we had to postpone the trip entirely until October. Though disappointment loomed, I remembered a favorite saying from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”: “It’s not where you are, but what you make of it.”
Ohio River
Embracing this spirit, we pivoted to a day trip to Blue Heron Winery in Cannelton, Indiana. Nestled along the picturesque Ohio River, this hidden gem offered a welcome respite from the sweltering heat.
Though modest in size, Blue Heron Winery charmed us with its abundant shade and tranquil atmosphere. The early Friday afternoon crowd was sparse, allowing intimate conversations with the owners, Lynn and Gary. Their passion for winemaking and the stories behind each bottle added depth to our tasting experience.
Discussions
As we sampled their offerings, someone asked, “What’s your favorite wine?” After a moment’s reflection, I realized my answer: “The wine in the glass I’m holding right now.” That reply neatly captured my philosophy of living in the moment and finding joy in the present experience.
From there, our discussion meandered through various topics, from aged Italian wines to a 1970 Comtesse Durieu de Lacarelle née Lur Saluces that Gary had recently enjoyed. I realized I need to learn more about the Sauternes region in Bordeaux, famed for its sweet wines. One estate that came up was Château Filhot, founded in 1709 by Romain de Filhot and long respected for its quality wine production.
The label emphasizes the estate’s connection to the Lur Saluces family, a prominent name in Bordeaux wine history and the owner of Château d’Yquem, one of the best-known Sauternes producers. Including the Comtesse Durieu de Lacarelle on the label underscores the family’s influence and heritage.
Vintage Sauternes like the 1970 Château Filhot are highly collectible and much sought after by wine enthusiasts. Properly stored, they can be enjoyed for many decades after bottling. I had never imagined that sweet wines could age so gracefully, but now I know. Discovering these wines and their history proved every bit as delightful as tasting them.
Post Tasting
After the tasting, we settled onto a patio overlooking the Ohio River, savoring our wine and the unexpected beauty of Indiana’s landscape. Conversation flowed easily as we talked about coming back and staying in the winery’s cabins.
No visit to Blue Heron is complete without a short hike to the Celtic Cross, reputedly the largest in-situ carved Celtic cross in the world. Created over 23 months by self-taught artist Greg Harris, the sculpture incorporates 23 circles and arcs, which lends an added sense of mystique to the visit
As we drove back to Evansville, we buzzed with ideas for our next visit. What started as a thwarted camping trip had turned into a day of discovery, relaxation, and unexpected joy—a perfect reminder that the best adventures are often unplanned. We couldn’t wait to return for more.
Leave a Reply