Missouri Wine Country is increasingly embracing sustainable practices, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental stewardship while producing high-quality wines. Many wineries in the state are adopting a wide variety of sustainable practices. 

One of the key practices is the recycling of boxes and bottles, which helps reduce waste and promotes circular economy within the wine industry. The choice of selecting lightweight glass bottles not only contributes to sustainable shipping and transport but also reduces the overall carbon footprint associated with wine distribution. By ensuing that packaging is reused or recycled, wineries can minimize their environmental footprint while encouraging consumes to participate in sustainability efforts.

Another innovative approach being adopted is the collaboration with local farmers to utilize all fruit remnants. Instead of discarding leftover grape skins, wineries are working with farmers, providing them with nutritious feed for livestock and enriching the local agricultural ecosystems. Additionally, many vineyards are harnessing the power of solar energy to reduce their reliance on fuels. 

Sustainable vineyard management practices are also becoming more prevalent. Grass control through the use of animals, for instance, helps maintain healthy soil while reducing the need for chemical herbicides. Planting disease-tolerant cultivars and implementing integrated pest management strategies further minimize chemical applications, promoting a healthier environment. Rotating organic fungicides into spray programs ensure that the vineyards remain productive. 

Together, these practices exemplify a commitment to sustainability in Missouri Wine Country, showcasing how the industry can thrive while respecting the environment. Thank you to all Missouri wineries who have a hand in making our world a more sustainable place. 

Have you ever heard someone say, "This wine has sulfites and is giving me a headache!"? It's a common statement at gatherings and wine tastings. But is there any truth behind it? For our Myth of the Month, we’re diving into the glass to uncover whether sulfites are truly the culprits behind those pesky wine headaches.

Sulfites are naturally occurring compounds in the winemaking process. They emerge as a byproduct of fermentation, an essential step in crafting wines. Additionally, winemakers often add small amounts of sulfites to act as preservatives, safeguarding the wine's freshness and preventing oxidation. This ensures your wine is perfectly ready to sip whenever you are!

While it's true that wines contain sulfites, are they the headache-inducing agents we blame them to be? If you notice similar effects after consuming products like jams, potato chips, canned vegetables, or baked goods, sulfites might indeed be the cause. However, true sulfite allergies are rare, affecting only about 4% of the U.S. population. Most people with a sulfite sensitivity do not experience headaches from sulfites alone. If other foods aren't triggering the same reaction, it may not be the sulfites in your glass at all!

Dehydration is a common trigger for headaches. Combat this by drinking a glass of water for every glass of wine you enjoy. Sip in moderation and avoid wine on an empty stomach to reduce the risk of headaches.

If you find yourself with a wine headache, don't fret. Here are a few remedies to help you recover. Sip plenty of water to rehydrate your body. You can also try and switch wine styles. If you have been sipping whites, change it to a red.

Sulfites in wine are unlikely to be the main cause of your headaches. By staying hydrated, sipping in moderation, and enjoying some of the delightful food offerings from Missouri Wineries, you can enjoy your wine without the worry of a headache. 

As spring and summer arrive, they bring with them wonderful opportunities to embrace the season of sharing! This time of year, inspires us to connect with friends, family, and our communities. What better way to celebrate this season than by taking part in Share & Pair Sundays. 

Share & Pair Sundays is supported by all tiers of the wine and food industry. 

Share & Pair Sundays celebrates the togetherness, the history, and the stories of wine that go beyond what’s in the glass. We support and respect the rich community of all who have an interest in great beverages of quality.

Looking for some tips and tricks to host? Check out the links below for effortless hosting! 

• https://missouriwine.org/news/be-perfect-host-these-simple-tips
• https://missouriwine.org/education/learn-the-basics/faqs
• https://shareandpairsundays.com/entertaining-tools-tips/

There are many different ways to celebrate. Simply plan a gathering with your friends. Or just make a dinner and have a glass of wine at home. Then you can celebrate the season with Share & Pair Sundays! 

Learn more about Share & Pair Sundays by clicking the link below. https://shareandpairsundays.com/learn-more/

Share & Pair Sunday promotes spending quality time with loved ones while enjoying memorable moments with food and wine. 

Celebrate Share & Pair Sunday with Missouri Wine! #mowine

Learn more about the Missouri Wine and Grape Board’s new “Wine Your Way” campaign, the initiative aims to educate consumers about the state’s wine industry in a variety of ways, both online and in person.
 

Click here to read the full article!

Missouri wineries are known for scenic landscapes and delicious wines. But there's something else wineries share with customers: their adorable, four-legged friends. From playful dogs to curious cats, these pets bring warmth and hospitality to the wine-tasting experience. Meet some of these vineyard companions and pour yourself a glass!

Adam Puchta Winery – Hermann

At Adam Puchta Winery you will find no shortage of cats. These cats are rescued and spoiled rotten by customers and the staff! They also have a couple of pups to help manage the vineyard!

Musket Cellars & Vineyard – Pleasant Hill

At Musket Cellars and Vineyard, you will find Cooper!

Prairie Barn Winery and Christmas Tree Farm – St. James

Visit Prairie Barn Winery and Christmas Tree Farm to meet Captain and Aries. Their winery cats!

Ozark Viking Meadery – Salem

If you head to Ozark Viking Meadery, you will get to meet pups Bear-Reguard and Rihannon. They double as vineyard assistants and man’s best friends!

Serenity Valley Winery - Fulton

If you want to visit some unique winery pets meet the ducks of Serenity Valley Winery!

Shamrock Hills Winery and Vineyard – Excelsior Springs

Shamrock Hills Winery and Vineyard is home to Chloe and Finnigan. Two winery pups that are the best door greeters!

Next time you are out in Missouri Wine Country be sure to visit these furry friends!

If you are looking for pet friendly wineries check out our website and use the Pets Welcome filter!

Share the winery pets you have met with us using #mowine

As National Beer Day approaches, many beer enthusiasts are looking for the perfect way to celebrate. What better way to enjoy this special day than by visiting Missouri Wine Country? Known for the picturesque landscapes and rich history, Missouri is also home to a growing number of wineries that have embraced the art of brewing beer. This unique combination offers visitors a chance to enjoy both wine and beer, making for an unforgettable experience. 

Add these wineries to your Missouri Wine Country travel plans. 

• Arcadian Moon Winery & Brewery – Higginsville 
• Charleville Vineyard Winery & Brewery – Ste. Genevieve 
• Edg-Clif Farms & Vineyards – Potosi 
• Hermannhof & Tin Mill Brewery – Hermann 
• Ozark Viking Meadery – Salem 
• Shamrock Hills Vineyard and Winery – Excelsior Springs
• Wild Sun Winery & Brewery – Hillsboro 

Traveling to Missouri Wine Country is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a wine or craft beer lover, or simply looking for a fun day out, Missouri Wine Country has something for everyone. 

This National Beer Day, consider taking a trip to Missouri Wine Country. With its stunning scenery, exceptional wines, and innovative brews, it’s the perfect destination to celebrate and enjoy the best of both worlds. Cheers! 

Springtime is here with warmer weather and longer days. While any Missouri wine is perfect to sip year-round, April is Chardonel month! Spring into the season with a glass of Chardonel!

Chardonel (shar-doe-nel) is a hybrid grape made from Seyval Blanc and Chardonnay. Chardonel is a late ripening white wine grape that produces a high-quality and full-bodied wine. It is distinguished by its superior wine quality combined with high productivity. The grape’s cold hardiness is superior to its acclaimed parent, Chardonnay, which you may have heard of. This wine can be fermented in oak or stainless-steel barrels. The Chardonel grape was developed in 1953, and the varietal was released in 1990. 

7.2% of the grapes grown in Missouri are Chardonel. This varietal produces wines with delightful flavors of pear, apple, and apricot, often enriched with an oaky undertone when aged in barrels. Chardonel is known for its full-bodied, rich, and complex profiles, and also offers a crisp finish. 

Serve Chardonel chilled at an ideal temperature of 44-55°F to fully appreciate. It pairs beautifully with creamy white cheeses, grilled chicken and fish, mushrooms, almonds, pasta in cream sauce, and desserts like vanilla cake, banana bread, and apple dishes. 

Explore the flavors of Chardonel with these recipes:

One-Skillet Smothered Pork Chops

Cheesy Chardonel Bacon Mac & Cheese Recipe

Butterscotch Blondies with Chardonel

Lemon Butter Seafood Pasta

Moscow Mule with Wine

Chardonel Wine Cocktail Recipe

Stargazer Cocktail

Share your favorite Missouri Chardonel with us using #mowine

As we gear up to celebrate National DIY Day, let’s take a joyful stroll down memory lane and revisit all the epic DIY projects that have sparked our creativity and turned our homes into personal wonderlands! From repurposing wine bottles into trendy statement pieces to whipping up colorful crafts that bring a smile, every DIY adventure is a chance to unleash our inner artists. It’s all about the thrill of making something unique and special with our own hands. Let’s reminisce about the DIY magic that makes every project a celebration of creativity and fun! 

Citronella Candle 

Wine Label Serving Trays 

Frosty Bottle Flair 

Pumpkin Screw Caps

Screw Cap Stepping Stone 

Wine Cork Planter

Wine Bottle Bouquet

Wine & Music Bottle 

Wine Bottle Serving Tray

Let’s keep the DIY momentum going into the next season, inspire each other, and continue to transform our spaces with our personal touches. Here’s to many more fun and fabulous DIY adventures ahead!

Missouri's family-run wineries thrive because they embody tradition, passion, and innovation. On this special day, we honor the families behind these businesses who pour their heart and soul into every bottle.

Each family winery represents dedication and a shared vision. Family members often work from sunrise to sunset doing multiple jobs throughout the day. Here are a few of the labor-intensive tasks you may not have had:

1. Planting and Pruning Vines: Family members nurture the vines, ensuring they thrive.

2. Label Design: Some wineries have their own family members design the labels, making them unique and each telling a story.
3. Bottling: This process often involves the entire family.
4. Events: Families host community events, from festivals to tastings, to connecting with customers.
5. Harvest: Families unite during harvest, celebrating the fruits of their labor.
6. Tasting Room: Here, they share their passion and knowledge, offering a personal touch.
7. Wearing Multiple Hats: In family businesses, roles can overlap, ensuring smooth operations.

Missouri family-run wineries are made special not only by the work that involves the entire family, but also the legacy and passion they share.

Multigenerational Legacy: Many wineries are passed down, preserving unique winemaking traditions.

Hard Work and Passion: These wineries thrive on dedication and a commitment to quality.

Drive to Succeed: More than just profit, these families pursue their lifelong dreams through excellence.

Lifelong Dream: Running a winery is often a cherished dream, realized through hard work and love for the craft.

On this Mom and Pop Business Day, we raise our glasses to the families that make Missouri wines exceptional. Their dedication and passion are the heart of our wine industry. Cheers to these mom-and-pop businesses!

As the sun sets later and you spend more time outside, try making these DIY citronella wine bottle candles. They are a great way to keep away those annoying mosquitoes. These candles are not only stunning, but they’re also functional!

Supplies:

• Empty wine bottle 

• Replacement wicks 

• Citronella torch fuel 

• Marbles/Rocks

• Funnel 

• Box Cutter

Instructions:

1. Fill approximately ¼ full. 

2. Cut your replacement wicks to size, ensuring they’re long enough to reach the fuel, and come out of the bottle. 

3. Continue to add a few more rocks until the bottom of the wick is covered. This will help to dissipate the heat evenly and prevent the flame from becoming too high. 

4. Using a funnel, fill ¾ of the bottle with citronella torch fuel.  

5. Cut a hole into the top of the lid and weave the wicks through the hole. 

6. Light your DIY wine bottle citronella candles and keep bugs away!

Enjoy the nice weather and make these fun DIY citronella wine bottle candles! They are the perfect way to reuse those empty wine bottles while serving a practical solution for enjoying a bug-free evening outdoors!