Wine & Flowers The Perfect Present

June 08, 2024

 

Missouri Wine is for more than sipping! This is your next perfect gift, up your wine giving game with this wine bottle bouquet!

Bowl of water

Supplies:

• Floral Foam

• Bottle of Missouri Wine

• Fresh assortment of florals (synthetic florals work as well)

• Bowl of water

Let’s Build it:

  1. Cut a square of floral foam. Take wine bottle and turn upside down, pushing top of bottle (cap facing foam) into the center of the square. Creating the perfect size indent into foam. Once this step is done, remove bottle from foam and set aside.
  2. Take bowl of water and submerge each side of floral foam into bowl. Make sure each side has been covered with water. Allow to drain for a minute or two on a separate dish. For synthetic flowers, you do not have to soak the floral foam.
  3. Once lightly drained, place foam on top of wine bottle, aligning the hole with the bottle cap. If you would like to trim side of foam to make a smaller bouquet, now is the time to do so. It’s easier when foam is already placed on bottle because you can see the proportions clearly.
  4. Take a knife to slice off any excess foam you would like to remove.bouquet
  5. Once your foam is shaped to your liking, cut your florals stems off, leaving about an inch or inch and a half of stem to pierce through foam. For Synthetic Flowers do the same.
  6. Arrange your flowers in the foam to your liking. Ensure the bouquet is even and shaped all the way around in a 360-degree design. 
  7. Place the bouquet back on top of your wine bottle. Your gift is ready to give!

Pro-tip: Use a bottle of Missouri Wine for your bouquet!

If you need a graduation gift, special present for mom or a "just because" bouquet, this DIY is the way to go!

DIY bouquet

 

Summer Sipping Events in Missouri Wine Country

May 31, 2024

Missouri Wineries not only offer delicious wine, but a lot of events to fill your summer calendar with fun! Check out some of these events and explore Missouri Wine Country!

Adam Puchta Winery - Hermann

Apple Creek Vineyard and Winery - Centertown

Baltimore Bend Vineyard - Waverly 

Beckett’s Winery - Glasgow 

  • June 22: Plant Swap and Sale | 11am

Belvoir Winery and Inn - Liberty 

Canterbury Hill Winery and Restaurant - Holts Summitout door wine

  • June 14: Dueling Pianos

Cedar Lake Cellars - Wright City

Chandler Hill Vineyards - Defiance 

Christine’s Vineyard - Webb City

Defiance Ridge Vineyards - Defiance

Edg-Clif Vineyard, Winery and Brewery - Potosi

Hunter Valley Winery - Cape Girardeau

Jowler Creek Winery Platte City

LaChance Vineyards - De Soto

Lake Creek Winery - Marthasville

Les Bourgeois VineyardsRocheportVineyards

McKelvey Vineyard – New Haven

Montelle Winery - Augusta

Noboleis Vineyards - Augusta

Shamrock Hills – Excelsior Springs

St. James Winery – St. James 

Stone Hill Winery - Hermann

Stonehaus Farms Winery– Lee’s Summit

The Peculiar Winery - Peculiar

Villa Antonio Winery– Hillsborogroup outdoor

Walnut Creek Winery ­– Holt

West Winery – Macon

Weston Wine Company – Weston 

Wildlife Ridge Winery– Smithton 

Willow Spring Mercantile – Excelsior Springs

Plan your next getaway in Missouri Wine Country! No matter which wineries you end up at, you are sure to have a fun time with great wine. Click this link to plan now!

https://missouriwine.org/education/enjoy-wine/winery-search

Vidal Blanc Sip, Savor, Celebrate

May 31, 2024

Vidal Blanc: Sip, Savor, CelebrateVidal Blanc Grapes

Crisp, clean and refreshing. Vidal Blanc is the simple yet delightful wine for your glass this summer. 

Vidal Blanc (vee-dahl-blahnc) is a French American hybrid that is known for its hardiness and ability to tolerate colder climates due to its thicker skin. This varietal was developed by a French grape breeder in the 1930s and is now a staple in Missouri wine country.

This grape produces wine that varies from dry to semi-dry and is sometimes used in blends and produced as a sweet, lste harvest dessert style wine and even sparkling wines. This varietal produces a medium bodied, crisp and clean wine, making it a refreshing choice for summers in Missouri.

With notes of pear, apple, citrus and other fruits, this wine pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods like grilled chicken, seafood, broccoli & asparagus, pasta & cream sauce, pine nuts & melon, citrus, sushi, soup and mozzarella.

 

Missouri Shrimp Linguine

To celebrate Vidal Blanc month, we recommend trying out this delicious Missouri White Wine Shrimp Linguine recipe. Combining shrimp, Vidal Blanc, pasta, and a savory creamy sauce, this quick meal is sure to impress. 

If you are looking for a Missouri white wine to pair with your dinner, a refreshing glass of wine for summer, or a Missouri classic, Vidal Blanc is an excellent choice for you to sip, savor and celebrate.

Strawberries are for Savoring May is Strawberry Month

May 28, 2024

May is National Strawberry Month!

National Strawberry Month is celebrated each May, and it is a time to indulge in one of nature’s sweetest fruits. Strawberries are in peak season right now, making them especially juicy, flavorful, and plentiful. Missouri wine and wineries continue to use strawberries in winemaking and pairings in unique ways. Whether you're enjoying a strawberry wine, a strawberry-infused dish, or fresh strawberries, National Strawberry Month in Missouri offers a unique and flavorful celebration of this fruit, especially in Missouri Wine Country.

To celebrate, try this Strawberry Wine Cake!

Ingredients For Strawberry Wine Cake

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • 1 package vanilla pudding (3 0z)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup strawberry wine
  • 1/2 cup strawberry jam
  • 1/2 cup cooking oil
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

Optional

  • Fresh strawberries as garnish
  • Top with Powdered Sugar
  • Top with Sprinkles

Ingredients For Glaze

  • 1 stick butter
  • 1/2 cup strawberry wine
  • 1 cup sugar

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Instructions:

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, strawberry wine, strawberry jam, and cooking oil. Mix well. To coat the pan, use melted shortening and a nut flour. Apply shortening with a brush all around the pan, and spread the nut flour in the pan, just before you add in the cake mix. Put chopped pecans into the bundt pan, making sure to spread evenly around the center cone. Then pour cake batter into bundt pan on top of pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour, or until toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean. When cake is removed from the oven, heat glaze ingredients together until they come to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Pour glaze onto hot cake, which is still in the bundt pan. Let cake sit for 30 minutes to absorb glaze. Turn cake out onto plate to complete cooling process. 

Pro-Tip: Removing the Bundt Cake. After the cake comes out of the oven, use a flat plastic spatula to loosen the perimeter of the cake. The let it rest and cool for 5 minutes upside down, then 5 minutes upright. This should help release a beautiful and intact bundt cake!

UnWINEd Under the Stars Camping in Missouri Wine Country

May 13, 2024

Escape to wine country and enjoy the beautiful landscape Missouri has to offer. Find below a curated list of Missouri wineries who offer camping accommodations nearby. Make plans to visit just one, or turn this into a camping trip bucket-list. Regardless, we know you will enjoy fabulous Missouri wines and make memories to last a lifetime.

 

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, always confirm plans by calling the winery before your planned arrival.

 

7C’s Winery
Pitch a tent or park your RV at 7C’s Winery for an unforgettable stay-and-play experience. Reserve your campsite or RV hookup through Hipcamp for a tranquil retreat.

 

Arcadian Moon Winery & Brewery
Enjoy lakeside RV sites equipped with 50-amp service at Arcadian Moon Winery & Brewery. Immerse yourself in peaceful views and indulge in fine wines and fresh food from the kitchen.

 

Baltimore Bend Vineyard
For a true ‘under the stars’ camping experience, Baltimore Bend Vineyard encourages primitive tent camping at the Baltimore Bend Conservation Area, just across the road from the winery.

 

Cave Hollow West Winery
Camp amidst the historic caves once explored by Mark Twain near Cave Hollow West Winery. Contact Mark Twain Cave Campgrounds at 573-231-1000 for reservations.

 

Keltoi Vineyard & Winery
Sip and stay at Keltoi Vineyard & Winery with convenient 30-amp RV hookups available for $10/day. Check in with staff upon arrival for parking instructions.

 

Prairie Barn Winery

Reserve your spot today with a Harvest Hosts membership.

 

Serenity Valley Winery
Harvest Hosts members can reserve a camping spot prior to their visit to Serenity Valley Winery.

 

Hermann City Campgrounds (Near Stone Hill Winery)
Adjacent to Stone Hill Winery, Hermann City Campgrounds offer full RV hookups and recreational amenities including a swimming pool and courts for various sports.

 

Twin Oaks Vineyard and Winery
Relax under the shade of twin oaks at this serene winery. Harvest Hosts members can reserve an RV spot for a peaceful overnight stay.

 

Wenwood Farm Winery
Set up camp at Wenwood Farm Winery and enjoy a night under the stars. Pitch a tent by booking through Venku or park your RV as a Harvest Hosts member.

 

Wild Sun Winery and Brewery
Camp at Washington State Park and spend time exploring before heading to Wild Sun Winery and Brewery for delicious food and wine.

 

Plan your trip and take time to discover nearby attractions and additional wineries to complete your itinerary. Share your adventures with us using #MOWines. Cheers to outdoor escapades and unforgettable moments in Missouri wine country!

 

 

Dish up Missouri Beef with Missouri Wines

May 13, 2024

Beef short ribs with mushroom wine sauce on mashed potatoes with red wine glass in background

Support Missouri cattle farmers when you craft something delicious with a likewise nutritious product. There is no denying that adding Missouri wine to the mix will elevate your experience altogether. Get inspired by these recipe ideas to fit your desired menu while you enjoy a variety of beef cuts and your favorite Missouri wines to pair.

 

 

 

 

 

Elegant Inspirationbeef curry with rice, fresh basil and lime wedges as garnish

Create an elevated menu curated from delicious recipes with pairings to impress your guests.

 

Casual Ideasbeef sliders with pineapple on parchment paper

 

Quick and Easysteak and avocado on grilled toast

 

This recipe collection can be found along with hundreds more from Beef. It's What's for Dinner. Get creative cooking your favorite beef dishes and be sure to add Missouri wine to the mix. Tag us in your cooking adventures at @missouriwine. 

 

 

A Sip of Sparkling Missouri Wine

May 06, 2024

Sparkling wine is often enjoyed in celebration, but who is to say you need a special reason to pop the cork on a bottle of Missouri sparkling wine anytime? The satisfying fizz that can be found in every sip sounds especially refreshing as we head into warmer seasons. Find a sparkling wine that you can enjoy for your next occasion, extra special or not, from one of these Missouri wineries.

 

Bottle and glass of Adam Puchta Bubbly

Adam Puchta Winery

Expect hints of apricot, golden delicious apple, and ripe melon from every sip of Adam Puchta Winery’s sparkling white wine, Bubbly. 

 

Amigoni Urban Winery

“Bollicine” is Italian for bubbles and Amigoni offers three different options of effervescent refreshments. 

 

Belvoir Winery

The Three Graces Collection is named after the three granddaughters of the winery founders, these effervesent wines bring a wide range of flavor.  

Bottle of Rosalia sparkling wine on a marble background

 

 

Eagles’ Landing Bottle and flute of Chambourcin Piquette on a barrel outside

Made from 100% Chambourcin grapes, sample their Rosalia sparkling made utilizing the French Saignée method next time you are in the St. James area. 

 

Fence Stile Vineyard, Winery and Distillery

Fence Stile’s Chambourcin Piquette is a lower-alcohol, fizzy wine alternative that is uniquely crafted from pomace.

Bottle and glass of G Husmann cuvee sparkling on a bar

G. Husmann Wine Co. 

The Cuvée of Hermann harmoniously blends Missouri Vidal Blanc and California Chardonnay, offering an enticingly floral and fruity bouquet. This wine pays homage to George Husmann's pioneering spirit and his significant contributions as the “father of the Missouri grape industry” to Hermann and Missouri's wine heritage, encapsulating a taste of legacy and innovation in every sip.

 

Bottle and flute of Hermannhof Brut Reserve

Hermannhof Winery

Produced using their estate-grown Vidal Blanc grapes, the Brut Reserve from Hermannhof is made utilizing the traditional méthode champenoise fermentation process. 

 

KC Wineworks

Produced in-house by hand using the traditional method, KC Wineworks is proud to offer a Sparkling Rosé that consistently sells out each year. Stay tuned for their latest vintage that you will not want to miss.

 

Bottles and flutes of Les Bourgeois Vineyards Brut and Brut Rose on a bar

Les Bourgeois Vineyards

Indulge in two finely crafted sparkling options both made in the méthode traditionnelle. The Brut and Brut Rosé both wonderfully highlight Missouri grown grapes.

 

Mount Pleasant Estates

Nestled in the historic heart of charming Augusta, MO, Mount Pleasant Estates presents their Ten Bucks sparkling wine. The delightfully sweet bubbly is a great companion with fruit and cheeses making every sip a celebration of flavor. 

 

Noboleis VineyardsBottle and glass of Noboleis Brut Rose on a barrel outside

Sip the crowd favorite Brut Rosé with its elegant pink hue, beautifully crafted from Chambourcin grapes. In an exciting expansion of their sparkling offerings, stop by to celebrate the debut of their Brut White style this coming weekend. 

 

Pirtle Winery

Weston’s Pirtle Winery is known for their unique effervescent wine offerings. Their bubbly lineup includes a rosé, blueberry and a mead. Be sure to plan a visit to try all three. 

 

Shamrock Hills Vineyardthree bottles of bubbly wine from St. James isolated on white

A sparkling Moscato will soon hit the tasting room as the first sparkling vintage from Shamrock Hills Vineyard. Keep an eye out and give this sweeter style sparkling wine a sip. 

 

St. James Winery

The newly released Bubbly expands the sparkling lineup from St. James winery. Head to the winery to experience all the wonderful choices that range from sparkling blush, to canned sparkling offerings to lightly sparkling fruit wine options.  

 

Stone Hill WineryBottle of Blanc de Blancs from Stone Hill outside with the MO state capital dome in the background

Offering a lineup of three méthode champenoise sparkling wines, Stone Hill Winery presents a sparkling wine for every palate:

  • Blanc de Blancs: Dry, Crisp, Biscuit, Delicate. 42mo sur lie
  • Brut Rosé: Dry, Pink, Fruity, Vibrant, Pleasant Acidity. 42mo sur lie
  • Demi-Sec: Semi-Sweet, Floral, Melon, Citrus. 13mo sur lie

 

Reserve Cellars of Hermann
The Brut Sekt is a meticulously crafted sparkling wine that pays homage to Hermann's deep German roots with its effervescent charm and crisp, refined flavor. This elegant offering embodies the traditional German Sekt style, providing a sophisticated and bubbly experience that celebrates the rich heritage of its origins.

 

Wild Sun Winery

Stellar is a great name and description of the hand-crafted sparkling Brut Rosé from Wild Sun Winery. This exquisite creation is a crisp refreshing way to celebrate any occasion. 

 

Celebrate life’s small and big moments with sparkling wines made right here in Missouri. Raise a glass, make a toast, and enjoy every sip.

 

Mix up a Margarita with Missouri Wine

April 22, 2024

Gather your friends and raise your glasses filled with one of these delicious Margaritas all crafted with your favorite Missouri wines. Whether you prefer yours shaken, stirred, or blended, Wine-a-ritas are a great way to enjoy complex flavors for Margarita lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. 

 

Sunset Wine-a-Rita

Recipe courtesy of Edg-Clif Farms & Vineyard

What you will need:

Lime

Sugar

4 oz Sunset Rosé Wine

1 oz Triple Sec

2 oz margarita mix

Ice

Watermelon wedges

Instructions:

  1. First, wet the rims of two margarita glasses in lime juice and then dip them in sugar to cover the top of the glasses.
  2. Fill glasses with ice. (Be careful to avoid knocking sugar into glass)
  3. Add wine, triple sec and margarita mix to a glass and stir.
  4. Pour into glasses and finish with a watermelon wedge.

 

Frozen Red Wine Margarita

What you will need:

1 bottle of light and fruity red wine

8 oz tequila

12 oz margarita mix

2 oz lime juice

3 oz Triple Sec or Grand Marnier

1 pinch of kosher or flaky sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Pour the entire bottle of red wine into an ice cube tray and let freeze for at least 6 hours.
  2. In a blender, mix tequila, margarita mix, lime juice, red wine ice cubes and triple sec until slushy.
  3. Pour, sip and enjoy!

Optional: Before pouring your Red Wine Margarita, wet the rim of your glass with a lime wedge and rim with salt.  

 

Citrus Wine-a-Rita

What you will need:

1 bottle Vidal Blanc

12 oz can of limeade concentrate

2 cups orange juice

1/2 cup (or more) quality tequila

Water

Sea salt 

Lime or orange slices (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine, limeade, orange juice and tequila.
  2. Fill the empty limeade can with water twice and pour into the pitcher.
  3. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  4. Wet the rim of each glass with a lime wedge and dip into sea salt to coat.
  5. Pour Citrus Wine-a-Rita over ice.

Garnish with lime and/or orange slices and enjoy!

 

Sangrita Swirl

What you will need for the sangria swirl:

1 cup red frozen red wine (freeze in ice cube trays)
1 oz of Triple Sec
½ oz fresh lime juice  
Juice from half of an orange

What you will need for the margarita:

6 oz. frozen limeade concentrate
3 oz tequila
1.5 oz Triple Sec
1 cup ice
Straw (optional for swirling)

Instructions:

  1. First, wet the rims of your two margarita glasses in lime juice and then dip them in either kosher salt or sugar to cover the rim of the glasses.
  2. Blend the frozen red wine cubes with the triple sec, lime juice and orange juice. Pour into a glass and set aside (or store in freezer).
  3. Add frozen limeade concentrate, tequila, triple sec and ice to the blender. Blend until slushy.
  4. Pour the margarita mix into the two glasses and then pour the sangria mixture on top. Swirl together with a straw.

*Recipe makes 2 servings. Double and use the entire can of frozen limeade to make 4 servings.

 

Give these delicious Margarita recipes a try and have fun mixing them up with your favorite Missouri wines! 

 

Savor the Season Explore Chardonel in Delicious Recipes

April 22, 2024

Savor the flavors of Missouri Chardonel in this selection of delectable recipes. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a culinary enthusiast, these dishes delve into a world of Chardonel-infused cuisine.

One-Skillet Smothered Pork Chops

This comforting dish combines tender pork chops with a savory Chardonel-infused sauce, creating a delicious blend of flavors.

Cheesy Chardonel Bacon Mac & Cheese

Indulge in a creamy, decadent macaroni and cheese infused with the irresistible flavors of Chardonel wine and crispy bacon.

Butterscotch Blondies with Chardonel

Treat your taste buds to the sweet and salty combination of butterscotch and Chardonel wine in these delightful blondies.

Lemon Butter Seafood Pasta

Elevate your pasta game with this exquisite seafood dish infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon and Chardonel wine.

Moscow Mule with Wine

Put a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule by incorporating Chardonel wine into the mix. This cocktail balances the kick of ginger beer with the smoothness of Chardonel, resulting in a drink that's as refreshing as it is sophisticated.

Chardonel Fondue (lactose-free version)

Enjoy the delectable Chardonel fondue without the dairy. This lactose-free version offers all the creamy goodness of traditional fondue.

Stargazer Cocktail

Mix up this fun Chardonel Cocktail that can be enjoyed on any occasion. 

Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner at home or hosting a festive gathering with loved ones, let the exceptional qualities of Chardonel wine elevate every moment. Cheers to savoring every flavor!

Behind the Label Parson House Chardonel

April 15, 2024

The Parson’s House sits high on a hill in the heart of Defiance, Missouri, overlooking the scenic Missouri River Valley. The historic home was built in 1842 by Thomas and Phoebe Parson, who had ventured west from Virginia in 1840. Their family settled high on the ridge and farmed more than 1,000 acres of land there long before the town of Defiance was established.

 

Their grandson, William Lee Parson, Sr., played a key role in establishing the town of Defiance. The tale is Parson House Chardonel Bottle and Glasstold that the town’s name would have been Parsons, if it hadn’t been for a Parsons, Kansas, already founded along the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad (now known as the Katy Trail).

 

Complete restoration of the historic brick house commenced in 1986 when the property was no longer owned by the Parson family and since has served the community as a Bed & Breakfast. Today, Norm Kellar, a dear friend of Defiance Ridge Vineyards, owns and operates the Parson’s House. Norm is fond of Chardonnay wine which attributes to using the Parson name for this Chardonel label. 

 

The team at Defiance Ridge Vineyards enjoys commemorating the history of their town by naming wines after cornerstones of their community. Some of these wines include Katy Traminette, named after the nearby iconic Katy Trail, Falling Leaf Off-Dry Vignoles, dedicated to the local Falling Leaf Farm, and of course, Parson House Chardonel.

 

Guests visiting Defiance can book their stay at the Parson’s House by contacting Norm at 314-280-3555. Enjoy a getaway to the Defiance area and be sure to complete your trip with a stop at Defiance Ridge Winery and a glass of Parson House Chardonel.

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