Happy Father’s Day! We hope you are celebrating today with your father figures but want to recognize ours. Meet the Fathers of Missouri Wine!

Charles Valentine Riley, more commonly known as C.V. Riley, was the very first State Entomologist for Missouri. He quickly became one of the leading entomologists in the U.S. and even served as an entomologist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

C.V. Riley was one of the first to discover that American rootstock was resistant to Phylloxera. This pest was working hard to destroy the French wine industry. C.V. Riley helped graft French rootstock to American rootstock, making their grapes resistant to the pest as well. He helped save the French wine industry.

Today we recognize C.V. Riley through our wine competition by presenting the C.V. Riley award for the best Norton.

George Husmann was considered the father of commercial grape growing in Missouri. His first vineyard was planted on his father’s farm in Hermann, Missouri. He became a renowned viticulturist, through his success with Norton. He soon introduced Concord to Missouri. He then built a winery in Hermann and helped found the Missouri Fruit Growers’ Association. He published several works sharing his knowledge and expertise on viticulture in Missouri.

Husmann truly was a pioneer and father of Missouri Wine Country. The industry was advanced by his dedication and knowledge of viticulture in Missouri.

Today we recognize Husmann through our wine competition by presenting the Husmann-Jaeger award for best varietal white wine.

Hermann Jaeger experimented with new grape varieties he created. He ended up creating over 100 new grape varieties over his lifetime. One of his experiments addressed downy mildew, he created a solution which he sprayed on the vines. This treatment was successful and he became known as a pioneer in new varietals and application of crop protection sprays for various crop diseases. He shared his knowledge and work with other grape experts around the world and learned from them as well.

Jaeger also worked to save the French wine industry by sending 17 boxcars of Phylloxera resistant rootstock to France.

 Today we recognize Jaeger through our wine competition by presenting the Husmann-Jaeger award for best varietal white wine.

These pioneers were truly the Fathers of Missouri Wine Country. Our industry would not be what it is without them!

Rosé is that beautiful pink wine that’s perfect for warm weather, and Missouri wineries know how to do it best! Let’s break down what makes a Missouri rosé so special. 

What is a rosé wine? Rosé isn’t a specific type of grape but a style or wine. The wine gets its pink color from a brief period of contact with the red grape skins. The brief contact gives the wines its signature color and lighter flavor. 

Missouri winemakers can use a variety of red grades to make a rosé. Most commonly are Norton, Chambourcin, Concord and Catawba. 

• Norton – is the Missouri state grape. It makes a dry, fruity rosé with a deep color. 
• Chambourcin – is a French-American hybrid grape that produces a rosé with bright acidity and flavors or red berries. 
• Catawba – this grape will create a natural rosé.
• Concord – can offer a sweeter unique flavor profile.

Missouri rosé comes in a range of styles, from dry to sweet.

• Dry Rosé: These rosé are crisp and refreshing, with little to no residual sugar. A dry rosé pairs well with rich creamy dishes. 
• Off-Dry Rosé: These have a touch of sweetness but balancing the acidity. These pair great with spicy dishes.
• Sweet Rosé: These rosé have a noticeable sweetness and are often enjoyed with fruity based dishes!

Missouri rosé wines are a delightful surprise. They offer a unique taste of Missouri. Whether you’re a seasoned wine sipper or just starting out, exploring Missouri rosé wine is a fun and adventurous way to discover Missouri wines. Next time you are at a local winery, grab a bottle and give it a try!

Father’s Day is just about a week away and it’s time to plan a memorable day for the father figures in your life! Here’s a list of events to consider across Missouri Wine Country. 

Apple Creek Vineyard & Winery – Friedheim 

• June 20: Shrimp Boil 2026

Cedar Lake Cellars – Wright City 

• June 21: Father’s Day Brunch

Chandler Hills Vineyards – Defiance 

• June 21: Smokehouse Buffet

Christine’s Vineyard – Webb City

• June 21: Grill & Chill

Edg-Clif Vineyard, Winery & Brewery – Potosi 

• June 21: Wine Club Event with Craft Beers

Les Bourgeois Vineyards – Rocheport 

• June 21: Yacht Rock Edition

McKelvey Vineyards – Leslie 

• June 19: Line Dancing

Triple 3 Vineyard – Washington 

• June 21: Father’s Day Fishing Tournament 

Walnut Creek Winery – Holt 

• June 21: Prime Rib Dinner

White Mule Winery – Owensville 

• June 21: Father’s Day Celebration

*Many wineries have live music also. Be sure to check their pages for more information. These events were compiled by a recent survey that was sent to wineries. 

This Father’s Day is going to be one for the books! Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads out there. 

The beauty of Missouri wine country is truly unmatched. From rolling hills and vineyards to the unique wineries, there's something beautiful about every region of Missouri wine country. We want to see it through your eyes, enter the 2026 Through the Glass Photo Contest!

This contest is your opportunity to showcase your photography skills and your love for all things Missouri wine. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, we want to see what you capture.

Contest Details

• Dates: The contest runs from June 15 - September 30, 2026. Make sure to submit your photos by the deadline at midnight on September 30.
• Judging: A panel will assess all entries and determine the top 10 contenders. These entries will be shared on our social media platforms for public voting.
• Voting Period: Public voting will take place on Missouri Wine's Facebook and Instagram accounts from October 7 - October 14, 2026.
• Winner Announcement: The winner will be revealed on October 16, 2026, and will be notified through their provided contact information.

Every participant has a chance to win! All contest entrants are automatically entered to win a Missouri Wine prize pack valued at $100.

The Grand Prize Winner will receive:

• A Missouri Wine prize pack
• Two tickets to the prestigious Missouri Governor's Cup presentation at the Governor's Mansion in Jefferson City, Missouri (DATE TBD)
• The winning image will be proudly displayed at this event this fall.

Click HERE to submit your photos and review the contest rules. 

We can't wait to see Missouri wine country through your eyes. Whether you're capturing a vineyard at sunset, a winery event, or the details of a grapevine, your photos will tell the story of Missouri wine country.

So, grab your camera, explore Missouri wine country, and happy snapping!

Celebrating a century of the open road! Route 66 is turning 100, and to honor this milestone we’ve created the ultimate trip planner for you. It’s a road trip with all the best things highlighted along the heart of America. With our trip planner, you’ll be able to discover the best of the best of Route 66. With events, lodging, places to eat and more. 

Plan your trip of Route 66 today!

Here’s to creating a lifetime of memories. Share your Route 66 trips with us using #mowine!