Indiana State University Newsroom

Indiana State University's Division of University Advancement has a new ISU-themed wine, State Sauvignon Blanc. The wine was created in partnership with Terre Haute-based WaterTower Estates Winery, with 20 percent of the proceeds supporting the university's Bridge the Gap Scholarships. 

"We are proud to partner with WaterTower Estates to create an exclusive Indiana State University wine," said Rex Kendall, Executive Director of the ISU Alumni Association. "This is a unique way to continue developing support within our community and among our alumni while supporting scholarships for current students."

Said Tyler Woodward, co-owner of WaterTower Estates: "This wine is the first collaboration wine in our portfolio, and also helps to ingrain us in the community further, and allows us to give back in a meaningful way. This wine is unique, from the bottle all the way down to the grape."

The Woodward family founded WaterTower Estates Winery in 2016. Co-owner Tyler Woodward and his wife, Tiffany, are proud graduates of Indiana State University.

"My degree laid the foundation to be able to run a successful winery," said Woodward, who earned his finance degree in 2010. "Being able to give back, and allow for someone to be able to continue their education at ISU, the university that has given our family so much, is just as exciting. We feel that everyone, should they choose, should be able to continue their education and invest in themselves."

Research has shown finances --- not academics --- are often the reason students drop out of college. The Bridge the Gap Scholarship started in 2018 to provide funding students need between their own financial resources (financial aid, family contributions, etc.) and the full cost of attendance.

"Bridge the Gap Scholarships are making a difference for our students, especially this academic year," said Andrea Angel, Vice President of University Advancement and CEO of the ISU Foundation. "Our donors have helped more than 100 students continue their education at ISU through this scholarship initiative. The State Sauvignon Blanc is a creative way for donors to support our students and a local business, and we are excited to continue to enhance this important university fundraising initiative with WaterTower Estates."

State Sauvignon Blanc retails for $20.99 per bottle and is available for purchase at WaterTower Estates, 530 W. Springhill Drive in Terre Haute. The wine will be available for purchase on the company's website (watertowerestate.com) Monday, November 23.

"A partnership with my alma mater is something that is very special to me and my family," Woodward said. "Being able to collaborate and work closely with the university while giving back to support current students is an opportunity we could not pass up."