Flowering is the next stage in the growing cycle after Bud Break. It’s an exciting and delicate time when the flowers burst through their caps (calyptra to be technical) carrying the pollen that will fertilize the vine and result in grape berries.

Head out to wine country to see this wonderful phase of the growing cycle in Missouri’s vineyards. 

Life is full of ups and downs that range from triumphant accomplishments, to important milestones and hefty challenges, but Missouri wine pairs perfectly any and all daily events.  The wide variety of wines produced in the Show Me state provide something to please everyone’s pallet and can serve as a well deserved reward after a long day, as well as some days you need a little light at the end of the tunnel to help get through the day.

Kid Free Evening + Vignoles
The kids are at Grandma’s so it’s finally time for you to relax. Unwind and enjoy a few moments of peace and quiet with a refreshing sip of Vignoles.  

Monday Blues + Vidal Blanc
Congratulations, you survived Monday! One day down, only four more to go. Pour yourself a crisp glass of Vidal Blanc as you begin making those weekend plans.

Unexpected House Guests + Chardonel
Entertaining guests can be a delight. However when it’s your in-laws and they show up unexpectedly the smooth taste of Chardonel will help you keep a smile on your face.

Flat Tire Fiasco + Chambourcin
Although it may be a common occurrence for some of us, no one plans to run behind schedule. Tire trouble only adds to the stress when you are already late. Once you make it back home, sip Chambourcin as you end your day.

New Job + Sparkling Wine
You’ve gone above and beyond to ensure deadlines are met, events run smoothly and your team operates like a well-oiled machine. That promotion you’ve been waiting on is finally yours. Celebrate your well-earned advancement with Missouri sparkling wine.

To Do List + Traminette
Procrastinating those weekly chores only adds to your to do list. Cleaning the house becomes a lot less tedious with a glass of Traminette.

Reconnecting with Friends + Norton
Some wines, like old friends only get better with time. The rich flavors of Missouri Norton are sure to pair as you reminisce with dear friends on your patio.

Whether your day includes celebrating a small victory or looking for the light at the end of the tunnel; Missouri wine is sure to be a great addition.  

“Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.” —Robert Browning

It’s impossible for thank our mothers for everything they do for us, but Mother's Day is a great opportunity to show our gratitude. If your mom is a Missouri wine fan, here are some wonderful DIY gift ideas she’ll adore. After all, handmade gifts have a special place in a mother’s heart, right?

For the moms out there who love to sit outside and soak in the fresh air, make a set of wine bottle Tiki Torches.

This DIY countertop wine rack is an easy project that is perfect for the Missouri wine loving mom!

For the more experienced crafters, this wine bottle table would be a welcome gift in any mother’s home.

Wine bottle wall mounted vases are perfect for the moms who are avid gardeners. They’re a beautiful way to display flowers.

If your mother is a big reader or maybe even a writer, she’ll love a handmade wine cork letter or symbol like this cool ampersand.  

Here’s to all the moms out there. Cheers! 

Mexican food is one of the most delicious types of cuisine around. There are so many mouth-watering dishes, prepared a little bit differently everywhere you go, but one thing is consistent… bold flavors! The intense flavors and spice of Mexican food pair surprisingly well with local, Missouri wines. Here are some suggestions for your Cinco de Mayo meal:

1. Guacamole + Sparkling Wine: Guac is a crowd favorite, but is notoriously hard to pair. The acid and effervescence of a sparkling wine will help cut through the fat and richness of the avocado. 
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) + Rosé: This dish is a real treat and will be even more enjoyable with a glass of Missouri rosé wine.
3. Seafood Ceviche + Vidal Blanc: Ceviche is very high in acid, but Vidal Blanc stands up to the test and the citrus notes are a great complement.
4. Posole (Pasole or Pazole) + Vignoles: However you spell it, this traditional soup usually carries a kick and the tropical flavors and sweetness of Missouri Vignoles pairs perfectly.
5. Fish Tacos + Seyval Blanc: Whether fried and crispy or marinated in spices, fish tacos go well with a glass of Seyval Blanc.
6. Chicken Fajitas + Chardonel: Umami is a word used to describe that fifth taste, the savory-ness. The umami character inherent in chicken fajitas pairs nicely with a Missouri Chardonel.
7. Tamales + Chambourcin: There are few things better than unwrapping a steaming, delicious tamale. About the only improvement is to add a glass of Chambourcin red wine.
8. Spinach Enchiladas + Traminette: While not the most traditional item on the list, spinach enchiladas make an appearance on many menus and are delicious paired with a glass of Missouri Traminette.
9. Carne Asada + Norton: This is a truly classic pairing. Rich and full of flavor, these two are a perfect match!
10. Flan + Traminette: Flan is a sweet, luscious custard that is a decadent end to any Mexican meal. The dessert pairs well with the slight sweetness of Traminette.

If you’re a Missouri wine fan and a fan of margaritas, we have the ideal recipe for you… a winerita!

Salud! 

Missouri Vintners also grow a number of native American varietals such as Norton (the state’s official grape), Catawba and Concord.

Next time you’re visiting one of Missouri’s more than 130 wineries, take the time to taste and learn a little more about the unique and delicious grape varieties we grow here in Show Me wine country. Cheers!

Bud Break is a very exciting time in the vineyards. It signals the vines awakening from their winter nap (dormancy). It’s the beginning of the grape growing season and holds the excitement of untapped potential.

Visit a local winery to witness the awakening of the vineyards and join us in celebrating this time of new beginnings!

We’ve all been there, a small drop of red wine spills onto your favorite shirt.  Will it ever come out? How should you treat it? Don’t let this ruin your day or your wine country adventure. A few minutes on Pinterest will yield hundreds of home remedies, but we took the extra step and put a few methods to the test. Most of the ingredients are common items you may already have in your kitchen. Read on for results.

Stain Removal Remedies

White Wine
If you are at a winery, white wine is readily available. Treat the area with white wine to help reduce the chance of a permanent stain. During our test this method did reduce the severity of the stain, but the wine was still present after it was washed. White wine was a good first step but we’d recommend further treatment of the stain before washing.

Table Salt + Boiling Water
Salt is typically within reach at the dinner table and may help absorb the wine and prevent it from spreading. Apply a heavy coat of salt and allow to sit for one hour. Place the clothing item over a bowl once you are home and pour boiling water over the area. This method was more successful in the center of the stain than the outer edges. We’d suggest salt as a quick fix if available then additional stain fighting methods before you toss it in the laundry.

White Vinegar + Detergent
Mix 1 Tbsp laundry detergent + 1 Tbsp white vinegar + 2 cups lukewarm water for this stain fighter. Instructions were to apply this solution to the stain and launder as normal. Results were less than outstanding with this mixture.

Dawn + Hydrogen Peroxide + Baking Soda
This method calls for 2 parts Dawn, 1 part peroxide and 2 tsp baking soda, mixed well. Apply this mixture to the stain and allow to sit for at least one hour. It didn’t take long to see visible results with this solution and it was the clear winner overall. Pro tip: Use a spray bottle for precise application and always test a small, discrete area for color fastness.

Helpful tips: Blot or dab the spill rather than rub which can make the stain worse. Dried stains are always tougher to remove. If possible keep the stain wet using water or white wine until you are home and able to treat it. When treating, it may be helpful to place a washcloth or towel between the layers of clothing to prevent the stain from bleeding to the other side during treatment. No matter which method you try the sooner the stain is treated the better your chances are of removing it completely. 

Feast Magazine and partners are at it again to showcase delicious, award-winning local wines alongside tasty treats from area restaurants and retailers. Missouri Wines is proudly sponsoring this event and wants to give you an opportunity to win a pair of VIP tickets.

At the 2017 Taste & Toast: Drink Local, guests will enjoy samples of locally crafted wines from more than 12 different wineries. These unique, delicious wines will be paired with food from more than ten beloved area restaurants and food vendors. All the while, guests will be treated to great live music.

This is the perfect night out for wine and food lovers! It’s a great opportunity for a fun date night, or to have a blast with your best pals.  

When: Friday, April 28, 2017 from 7-10pm – VIP Happy Hour starting at 6pm

Where:  Moulin, 2017 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, Missouri

Click here to purchase tickets.

Click here to enter to win a pair of VIP tickets.

(Entry deadline: April 20, 2017 by 11:59pm CST) 

We’ll see you at the 3^rd Annual Taste & Toast! 

Fondue has an often disputed origin, but in 1930 it was named Switzerland’s National Dish, and it’s popularity has spread far and wide. There is something undeniably fun and communal about Fondue that makes it the perfect dish for sharing with a group. Traditional Fondue recipes include cheese, wine, herbs and garlic. Try this version featuring Missouri’s classic white wine, Chardonel.

Chardonel Fondue Recipe

Time: 15-20 minutes

Yield: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

1  Fresh garlic clove

½ lb  Gouda cheese

½ lb  Swiss cheese 

1 cup  Missouri Chardonel- dry, white wine

¼ cup  Cornstarch

Salt

White Pepper

Directions:

Grate the cheese and coat with cornstarch. This recipe uses a double boiler method. You’ll need a heatproof bowl and a pan it will fit in without touching the bottom of the pan. Cut the garlic clove and rub it on the inside of the bowl to coat the bottom and sides. Place the bowl over the pan of water, bringing the water to a simmer. Add wine to the bowl and heat until warm but not too hot. (You’re looking for small bubbles, not a rolling boil.) Add the cheese a handful at a time stirring until melted. Once all of the cheese is melted, add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with dippable delights such as bread, veggies, meat, or even apple slices.

The Fondue will thicken quickly if you don’t have a Fondue pot or small slow cooker, so eat up! Pair this delicious shareable dish with a glass of Chardonel. Cheers! 

The menu for Easter dinner varies from table to table, but we’ve compiled delicious wine pairing recommendations for some of the more traditional dishes. If you’re Easter dinner or brunch menu don’t include any of these items, you can always use our interactive food and wine pairing guide to find the perfect match.

1. Deviled Eggs + Traminette
2. Green Salad + Vidal Blanc
3. Lamb  + Norton
4. Ham + Chambourcin   *If the glaze on your ham is rather sweet, a Chambourcin rosé may be the way to go.

5. Duck + Norton
6. Roasted Vegetables and Potatoes + Chardonel
7. Spring Peas with Mint + Vidal Blanc
8. Lemon Meringue Pie + Late harvest dessert wine
9. Chocolate Bunnies:

Milk Chocolate + Fruit wine (Cherry, Blackberry or Raspberry)

(Fairly) Dark Chocolate + Chambourcin

(Really) Dark Chocolate + Norton

White Chocolate + Sweet sparkling wine

10. Marshmallow Peeps + Late h arvest dessert wine

Sip local as you celebrate this Easter!