From Coal Mine to Fine Wine

The couple behind a Vigo County winery says the community is embracing their vision, which is located at the site of a former Peabody coal mine. Sarah Pigg, who owns Sycamore Winery in West Terre Haute with her husband Daniel, says the booking calendar is already filling up for next year. The Indiana State University graduates say the 60-acre attraction includes a winery, craft brewery, trails, lakes and 4,000 square-feet of event space. During an interview with Inside INdiana Business Television, the Piggs described the vision for Sycamore Winery, which has been several years in the making.

"Around 2010, my wife and I traveled around to several wineries, had an idea, and saw a need in our community," Daniel said. "Really add to — add a point in our community — a point of pride and develop something unique. That’s how it started."

The property includes two lakes and walking trails and was once part of a big mining operation. Sarah says the event space has room for up to 250 guests and has been a "huge draw" for gathering such as outdoor weddings. She says the businesses is family-friendly, which reflects their own lives. They gear some features to kids, including root beer tastings and games. "That way, we really encourage the families to be together."

Long-term, Daniel says the vision could include on-site lodging facilities and additional trails to take advantage of the lake views and Wabash Valley landscapes. You can read more about Sycamore Winery, which opened on Independence Day weekend by clicking here.