Shop Local Missouri Wineries this Holiday Season

December 13, 2018

It’s the time of year when we scramble to find gifts for our friends and family members. Sometimes it is hard to think outside the box and find the perfect gift year after year. 

No worries, Missouri Wines is here to help! What better way to spread holiday cheer than shopping local and supporting Missouri businesses?

Have you ever thought about going to your local winery and checking out their retail items? Many wineries have great options for that wine lover in your life. Of course you can find a great selection of Missouri wines, but retail items may also include:

  • Apparel 
  • Wine stoppers
  • Home décor
  • Baking items
  • Mulled wine spices
  • Tumbler cups
  • Wine glasses
  • Cheese boards
  • Candles
  • Wine totes
  • Pillows
  • Dish towels
  • Hats
  • Koozies

        
      
       
       


    The best tip we have to give when it comes to Christmas shopping? When in doubt, a bottle of wine always does the trick… especially when it’s Missouri wine!  

Sparkling Snowman Cork Ornament

December 11, 2018

Do you have a Christmas tree with spare space? How about one or more sparkling wine corks lying around? If the answer to both questions happens to be “yes”, you’re in for a treat! 

Get in the crafting mood and create these adorable sparkling snowman cork ornaments. It’s fun and easy. Plus, you only need a few supplies. These cork ornaments are the perfect addition to any Christmas tree or holiday decorations. 

Supplies Needed: 
Paint brush
Paper plate
Permanent markers (black and orange) 
Ribbon
Scissors
Screw eye rings 
Sparkling wine corks
Twine
White paint 

Optional: 
Glue
Hot glue gun

Assembly Steps: 
1. Gather your sparkling wine cork and one screw eye ring. 
2. Gently turn the screw eye ring into the cork.  Keep turning the screw until you can only see the ring peeking out of the top of the cork. 
3. Once you have the screw eye ring in the cork, hold the cork by the screw and paint the cork white.  Depending on how your paint spreads, you may need to apply a second coat. 
4. Let your cork dry completely.  Again, depending on your paint and the number of coats you apply, this could take 5-15 minutes.  To speed up the drying process, use a blow dryer or heat gun on low speed.
5. After the cork is dry, draw eyes, buttons, and a mouth with a black permanent marker.  
6. Next, use your orange permanent marker to draw the snowman’s nose. 
7. After you’ve drawn on your snowman, cut ribbon for the scarf.  We cut our pieces about 5 inches long. 
8. Gently tie the scarf around the snowman’s neck.  In order to get the scarf to lay to the side, try tying a loose double knot. If you don’t want to tie the scarf, you can also use a hot glue gun to place the scarf on the snowman. 
9. Cut your twine to the length that you want, loop the twine through the screw eye ring and tie a knot. 
10. Place your snowman on the tree!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsPGM_N_FyE&feature

Celebrate the Holidays with Missouri's Seasonal Wines

December 04, 2018

 
This is the time of year when we try to savor every moment of the day, making memories gathered around the table or near a crackling fireplace. Start a new tradition this year or rekindle an old one by adding a seasonal Missouri wine to your celebrations. 
 
502 E 560th Road
Walnut Grove, MO 65770
 
7Cs Winery offers a variety of meads this time of year including its Grim Reaper and After Burn, both semi-sweet meads. Look for their Hades Ambrosia’s release in the near future.
 
19203 E. Old Hwy 40
Higginsville, MO 64037 
 
The staff at Arcadian Moon are currently working on a sparkling seasonal wine. The bubbly will only be available for a limited time.
 
27150 US 24
Waverly, MO 64096
 
Baltimore Bend Vineyards offers a well-timed and perfectly named, semi-sweet red wine, Kris Kringle. The Vignoles-Norton blend features cinnamon flavor and is now in its 8th year of production.
 
23589 State Rte WW
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
 
Crown Valley Winery’s Bourbon Barrel Chardonel and Bourbon Barrel Norton take the chill out of a cold winter’s day. The Bourbon Barrel Chardonel has a fragrant nose of sweet melon, citrus and vanilla with a smooth caramel pear taste. The Bourbon Barrel Norton has a deep red color that opens up with a rich fragrance of blackberry, black currant & toasted oak for a long lingering finish.
 
10035 Edg-Clif Drive
Potosi, MO 63664
 
Hollyberry Red, a semi-sweet Chambourcin with a rich, dark purple color and wonderful blackberry notes, is available at Edg-Clif Farms & Vineyard. The wine includes a gift tag with a mulled wine recipe for holiday entertaining.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31010 W. 124th St.
Excelsior Springs, MO 64024

Fence Stile Winery invites you to enjoy FirePit Red and Backpack Red, Chambourcin-based wines blended with Norton. FirePit Red is a full-bodied Norton-Chambourcin balanced with cherry notes. Backpack Red is a semi-dry red wine with notes of cherry, light spice and pomegranate. The winery will release Mure Blanche, a seasonal winter dessert wine made with blackberries and grapes sourced from the estate in February.
 
 
 
16905 Jowler Creek Road
Platte City, MO 64079
 
 
Jowler Creek Winery offers several wines released to coincide with the holiday season. Caramel Apple Sangria is available now through Thanksgiving. Cranberry Apple Sangria will be released on Thanksgiving. Enjoy the winery’s Wine Hot Chocolate from Thanksgiving through Christmas and its mulled wine from Thanksgiving through Christmas.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LaChance Vineyard
12237 Peter Moore Lane
De Soto, MO 63020 
LaChance Vineyard’s La Trop is a beautifully intense and robust wine. This classic port-style, sweet red dessert wine is of intense dark plum, cassis and blackberry fruit. It pairs extremely well with nuts and soft cheeses as well as chocolate based desserts. 
 
 
 
 
 
201 Montelle Drive
Augusta, MO 63332
 
 
St. Wenceslaus is a festive holiday tradition at Montelle Winery. This ruby red sweet wine is full of spice and is ready to enjoy right out of the bottle or you can add citrus and spices to give it an extra flair. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Noboleis Vineyards 
100 Hemsath Road
Augusta, MO 63332
 
Noboleis Vineyards recently released their limited edition wines, including Viognier, Aromella, Dry Traminette, Crimson Cabernet and their port-style Volume V.
 
 
 
 
 
3578 Sand Creek Road
Farmington, MO 63640
 
Sand Creek Winery invites you to add their Late Harvest Chardonel dessert wine to your festive get-togethers. This wine will be on special at the winery until the end of the year.
 
Serenity Valley Winery 
1888 Co. Rte 342
Fulton, MO 65251
 
If you enjoy everything pumpkin, check out Serenity Valley Winery’s Golden Days, a semi sweet pumpkin pie white wine. Another seasonal favorite is the winery’s Fiery Opal, a semi-sweet red wine with a crisp tart burst of ripe cranberries. Serve the wine at room temperature or warm it up with mulling spices. Velvet Rhapsody, a semi-sweet raspberry red, is the perfect wine to add to hot chocolate.
 
620 West Hwy N
Wentzville, MO 63385
 
 
Small Batch Winery specializes in small batches of wine including Mary Kathryn's Cranberry. This semi-sweet plum wine has the crisp taste of fresh cranberries harmoniously blended with a fruity, velvety richness. The wine’s robust, yet elegant, sweet berry flavors make it a perfect refresher.
 
540 State Route B
St. James, MO 65559
 
St. James Winery’s Cranberry wine is sweet and tart with bright, festive cranberry colors, aromas and flavors. The seasonal bestseller is available now through December 31. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
10501 US 36
Easton, MO 64443
 
Tipple Hill Winery’s Holiday Cranberry wine is available now through December. You can enjoy this delicious wine on its own or use it to make mulled spice wine. The winery’s Chocolate Raspberry is available during the month of February.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Top Hat Winery 
120 S. Main St.
Independence, MO 64050
 
Top Hat Winery’s Viking, a sweet and tart Cranberry wine is bright with festive cranberry colors, aromas and flavors. This seasonal wine pairs great with holiday meals. 
 
8381 US 60
Mountain View, MO 65548
 

 
The rich color, crisp cranberry flavor and smooth finish of Jack’s Frost Cranberry will get you in the holiday spirit. Viandel Winery’s semi-sweet wine has the perfect balance of tartness. Looks like Christmas in a glass!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
107 Vine Street
Macon, MO 63552
 
West Winery’s seasonal wines lineup include Spiced Apple, Sweet Blackberry and semi-sweet Pear. These wines are available for a limited time at the winery’s Hannibal, Kirksville and Macon locations. 
 
 
 
 
34751 Miller Road
Smithton, MO 65350
 
 
Wildlife Ridge Winery’s Spring Fling is a limited edition semi-sweet Traminette with a big floral finish. This wine will be available until February 2019.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9478 SW State Hwy J
Osborn, MO 64474
 
Windy Wine Company invites you to try their two seasonal wines: Thanksgiving Red, a sweet, cranberry wine with orange and cinnamon and Sugar Plum, a sweet, spiced plum wine. 
 
 
As you plan your family get-togethers, don’t forget Missouri’s seasonal wines. Just remember…many of these wines are only available for a limited time. Get your favorite seasonal wine or find a new one before it disappears.

McKelvey Vineyards

Nearly 150 years ago, a 60 acre farm in New Haven, Missouri produced some of the best wines in the region. Once Prohibition was enacted, the winery closed and vineyards were removed. In 2016, owner Patricia McKelvey began the process of restoring the property to its grandeur. The old farm house has been meticulously restored and the vineyards have beren replanted. The property is now open to the public, featuring an all-season pavilion, wine tasting, delicious snacks, event center and a lodging house for overnight guests.

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Missouri Made: Barrel Manufacturing

November 27, 2018

Living in Missouri, we are fortunate to be surrounded by more than 130 fabulous wineries that take pride in their wine.  From grapes to glass, the amount of love and time our wineries and vineyards pour into production is truly astonishing. Throughout the year, as the wineries work together to make their award-winning wines, many of their wines wouldn’t be possible without the wine barrels grapes spend the majority of their aging life in. 

So, what do you know about these barrels?  The wine barrels, where the wine spends years hibernating, are extremely important to the flavors these wines take on. Here are the basics of barrel manufacturing and methods that Missouri manufacturers use. 

First and foremost, there are two production components for barrel manufacturers.

 (Stave pieces pictured)

 (Stave pieces being formed into barrels)

There are stave mills, which are companies that saw white oak logs into staves for barrel production, and then air dry the staves before selling them. They can also produce headings, which are the tops and bottoms of each barrel. In addition to stave mills, barrel manufacturers are called cooperages. Cooperages oftentimes purchase staves from stave mills to make the barrels. However, each manufacturer has a different process. Some cooperages do the entire process themselves, manufacturing their own staves and headings to produce their barrels from start to finish. But, what’s important to note, is that cooperages may each approach barrel manufacturing in a unique way.

Did you know that the world’s largest barrel manufacturer is located in Missouri?

Independent Stave Company (ISC) is the world’s largest barrel manufacturer and is located in Lebanon, Missouri. ISC was founded in 1912 and continues to grow its 100+ year heritage. 

All barrels are made from white oak.

The white oak used to produce barrels is either European oak or American oak. Every single barrel that is made in the world comes from one of those two types of white oak. 

There are two ways to test if a barrel is completely sealed.  

Whether the barrel is being made to age whiskey or wine, the next step after the barrel is formed together with staves and headings is to fest the seal. There are two types of tests that can be performed. One of the ways to test the barrel is to fill the barrel with air and see if there is air seeping out from any areas of the barrel. The same type of process can be performed by filling the barrel with water. Just like the air test, if any water leaks out of the barrel, there was an issue in the creation of the barrel unit and the barrel won’t be used. 

Now that you know all barrels are made from white oak and how the seals are tested, did you know there is a difference between wine and whiskey barrels? 

After the barrels are created and tested for durability, depending on if the barrels are going to be used for wine or whiskey production, the next steps are very different. For our wineries, the barrels are toasted. The inside of the wine barrel is toasted and not burned. The reason for toasting wine barrels is because winemakers want the wine to take on the toasted oak flavor of the barrel. Whiskey barrels are charred. The charring (burning process) singes the inside of the barrel and gives the whiskey its brown color. This is another reason winemaker’s barrels aren’t charred – they don’t want their wine to take on the dark color. 

Not only does Missouri house the largest barrel manufacturer, but ranks 2nd in the US for barrel and stave exports. We are Missouri proud and thankful for all of the barrel manufacturers and the work that they do to ensure that Missouri wineries can produce their best wines.

 

Picture Your Next Event In Missouri Wine Country

November 20, 2018

The next time you’re in charge of scouting the location for a business meeting or special event, why not head to Missouri wine country? Our wineries offer beautiful views and, of course, a variety of delicious wines. Some of them even have catering available. Whether it’s a small or larger affair, you’ll find the perfect setting for your group. 
 
Here’s a list of some of the Missouri wineries that offer venue space. Please keep in mind that this may not be a complete representation of the venue space available at Missouri wineries. Do your research. Decide on the space and amenities that you need, then call one of our fabulous wineries to see if they can accommodate you. 
 
502 E. 560th Rd
Walnut Grove, MO 65770
 
 
7C’s Winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The 10 acre field close to their winery and tasting room is large enough to accommodate any size group. The winery features BBQ grills, a patio and games including human foosball and giant jenga. 
 
1505 Genessee Site 100
Kansas City, MO 64102
 
 
Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate function or other special occasion, Amigoni Urban Winery has several options for your special event. You can rent the entire winery or choose between their tasting and barrel rooms. 
The barrel room offers an intimate setting that showcases the winery’s Missouri oak barrels and unique character. The room is complete with a private bar, access to the patio and additional restrooms. The barrel room holds up to 70 seated guests or 100 in a cocktail setting.
 
The tasting room features an open layout with two stories of windows overlooking the historic Stockyards District. Guests are greeted at the door by a beautifully restored chandelier and original wall accents from 1909. The space is ideal for smaller gatherings, corporate happy hours and networking events or wedding receptions.
 
19203 Old US 40
Higginsville, MO 64037
 
 
Arcadian Moon is situated on more than 70 acres and features several lakes on their property. Rental options include the winery’s log cabin which includes a private dining room that comfortably seats groups as small as 24. An additional 16 can sit outside on the private deck, weather permitting. This intimate setting with two walls of windows looks out onto the winery’s main lake. The winery’s recently remodeled Banquet Hall seats 150. Your group can expand onto the winery’s large patio that spans the front of the hall.
 
27150 US 24
Waverly, MO 64096
 
 
Baltimore Bend Vineyard has a couple of options for your business meeting or special event. For a small group of less than 30, the winery offers a cozy room just off their tasting area that can be set in a formal or informal arrangement. For a larger crowd up to 50, you can rent the winery’s barrel and bottling area.
 
21124 Cave Road
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
 
 
Cave Vineyard is a beautiful location for your event or ceremony. The winery’s new Brandy Room is beautifully finished with knotty pine throughout and candle light fixtures that offer a warm and inviting elegance to any special event. There is a separate parking area and magnificent deck for your guests. Or, choose to rent the Pavilion located adjacent to the Tasting Room and winery parking lot. This space offers fantastic views of the vineyard. 
 
16937 Boyd Road
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
 
 
Charleville Vineyards’ 1800s log cabin sits on top of one of Ste. Genevieve County’s highest hillsides. The historic building is available to rent for small weddings or parties. The space includes a front porch and lawn space, a large, open room on the main floor and two B&B rooms upstairs. Furnished in rustic antiques, the main room can accommodate 40 – 50 people.  
 
23589 State Route WW
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
 
 
Crown Valley Winery’s venue options include a Barrel Room with barrel-lined walls and an outdoor pavilion next to their ceremony site with a gorgeous view of the vineyards. Guests can cozy up to the winery’s stone fire pit in the cooler months. You’ll find another great venue option one mile away at Crown Valley Brewery. The brewery offers a beautiful outdoor site with views of the rolling countryside. Full catering and bar options as well as lodging facilities are available.
 
200 N. Jefferson Street
St. James, MO 65559
 
Eagles’ Landing is located in a historic World’s Fair building in the heart of the Meramec River Wine Trail and within a short driving distance of several small vineyards. Choose between three venue spaces, each outfitted with full bars, featuring Eagles' Landing wines. The winery offers full catering from their incredible chef and can custom tailor any event from a simple business lunch to a wine paired four-course meal. You can even customize a signature cocktail menu for your guests. Eagles’ Landing is able to accommodate a range of parties, from private tasting groups to 300-guest wedding receptions.  
 
10035 Edg-Clif Drive
Potosi, MO 63664 
 
 
Edg-Clif Vineyard Winery & Brewery hosts weddings and other special events in several sites on their property. Each of their renovated vintage farm locations are surrounded by vineyards and offer a cozy setting for groups of 50 - 250 in an intimate setting. The winery’s open air pavilion sits on the site of a former farm house. The pavilion has a stone fireplace and open rafter ceiling with string lights and can accommodate up to 100 people. The location has views of the vineyard and gardens and is easy to access from the winery’s parking area. Or, you can select their historic “ShowBarn” for your event. The “ShowBarn” features the winery’s barrel room and can hold up to 50 people. You can also choose from their wedding garden, field and green spaces, as well as their vineyard view location.  
31010 W. 124th St.
Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
 
 
Fence Stile Vineyards and Winery’s wine cave is a unique setting for events. The winery also has a spacious tasting room with a fireplace, private dining room, cellar garden, deck and flagstone patio with a stage and canopy. The winery is surrounded by 10 acres of vineyards all within view of the tasting room’s interior space and patio. An in-house chef can prepare custom catered meals or you can choose a Nibbles menu (breads, cheeses, olives, nuts, sausages, etc.) for your guests. The winery is less than three miles from The Elms, a historic destination hotel in Excelsior Springs. Shuttle buses are available from the hotel to the winery. 
 
595 Clinton St.
Osborn, MO 64474
 
 
Grindstone Valley Winery is located in a former legion hall. The winery features a covered deck which seats 50 people and a fire pit for guests to gather around during cooler months. 
 
330 E. 1st St.
Hermann, MO 65041
 
 
Hermannhof Winery has numerous event spaces for rent, including Festhalle, Black Shire Pavilion, Tin Mill Celebration Hall, Tin Mill Double Eagle Cellar, Tin Mill Brewery Cellar, Hermannhof Winery Private Cellar and Dierberg Star Lane. The winery’s banquet team can prepare a diverse menu for your special occasion. The winery can accommodate groups ranging from 10 - 200 people.
 
16586 Audrain Road 953
Mexico, MO 65265
 
Plan your next business meeting or event at Hummingbird Winery. The winery's tasting room can accommodate 36 guests or you and your group can sit outside where you'll find picnic tables and chairs on the winery's lawn. 
 
16905 Jowler Creek Rd
Platte City, MO 64079
 
 
If you're looking to host your private event at a beautiful winery, Jowler Creek Winery is a great option. The winery’s rustic, reclaimed wood and glass decor, paired with their tranquil, on-site sustainable vineyard, provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience. Several locations are available at the winery.
1829 McGee St.
Kansas City, MO 64018
 
 
KC Wineworks, located in the Crossroads Arts District of Kansas City, has a couple of space options for your next gathering. The winery’s Barrel Room provides a more intimate setting for smaller groups such as showers, anniversary parties and rehearsal dinners, or corporate training sessions and happy hours. The winery can seat about 45 people comfortably and entertain up to 65 cocktail style. The Barrel Room features unique chandeliers that hang from the building’s original wood ceiling and includes views of the winery’s urban streetscape and wine barrel room. Rental fees include the use of their mobile bar and catering kitchen. 
 
12237 Peter Moore Lane
De Soto, MO 63020
 
 
LaChance Vineyards, nestled amidst the rolling hills of De Soto, offers a charming, intimate winery experience with first-class amenities. The winery’s large tent can seat up to 250 people and is heated so it stays comfortable even during cooler days. Whether you choose to gather with family and friends inside or outside, you’ll find a casual elegance on the property, on the grounds, in the tasting room or the partially covered deck. And if you're planning your big day, the winery offers two areas for wedding ceremonies. Wedding ceremonies are especially beautiful when the sun sets behind couplse as they exchange vows. The winery features a large fountain area and waterfall that flows into a koi pond.  A full service kitchen is available for your special event needs.
 
14020 West Hwy BB
Rocheport, MO 65279
 
 
Les Bourgeois Vineyards is the perfect place for your special event, whether it’s the wedding of your dreams, family birthday, anniversary or corporate retreat. Reserved space and catering is available at the winery’s Blufftop Bistro and A-Frame. Event space includes the winery’s loft, main floor and terrace. Each offers a unique environment and spacious accommodations. 
 
21356 Gore Rd
Marthasville, MO 63357
 
 
Lost Creek Vineyard is the perfect setting for your next event. The winery will take care of setup and cleanup as you enjoy a day with family and friends. Bring your own snacks or winery staff will arrange catering to go along with one of their specialty drink packages. The winery features an 800 square-foot tent and a wrap-around porch as well as a portable dance floor and stage so you can continue your celebration into the evening.
 
8901 State Highway YY 
Leslie, MO 63056

Featuring countless breathtaking vistas, McKelvey Vineyards embraces the natural beauty and intimacy of the vineyards and Missouri Wine Country with an elegance and sophistication you and your guests will never forget. From an intimate exchange to a formal gala, the winery's goal is to help make your planning simple and enjoyable. McKelvey Vineyards offers a beautiful 3,200 square foot all-season pavilion.  They are happy to accommodate smaller parties and large groups, up to 300 guests. In addition, the winery's 1800s farm house, appropriately named Steeple View Manor because of its view of the neighboring church steeple, is a beautiful country retreat. You can book the house which contains four full bedrooms and comfortably sleeps 8. 

201 Montelle Drive
Augusta, MO 63332
 
 
Montelle Winery has a new event center overlooking the Missouri River Valley. Their event space includes climate controlled seating for up to 200 people, private tasting room and bar, state of the art kitchen, trained event staff, expanded deck, stone fireplace and beautiful views of the valley and rolling hills.  
 
100 Hemsath Road
Augusta, MO 63332
 
Celebrate your special event in Augusta, the first federally-recognized American Viticulture Area. Noboleis Vineyards offers three locations for your meetings or celebrations. 
 
The winery's Barrel Cellar is a beautiful room surrounded by barrels and their wine library. Guests enter the cellar through two large wooden cellar doors. This event venue can set up to 50 people for private, catered events. 
 
The Vineyard Loft seats up to 24 people and is a great location for wine luncheons or corporate meetings. The space overlooks beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and includes access to a full bathroom, catering kitchen and overhead projector. 
 
The Winemaker's Loft seats up to 12 people. Perfect for wine luncheons, private wine tastings or small corporate meetings, the loft overlooks beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and includes access to a full bathroom and catering kitchen.
 
5448 N. Berry Lane
Springfield, MO 65803
 
OOVVDA Winery is located in the heart of the Ozarks and is only 10 minutes north of Springfield. The winery offers outdoor seating and tables for up to 60 people in their wine garden.
 
3578 Sand Creek Road
Farmington, MO 63640
 
 
Sand Creek Vineyard is a beautiful location for your group, whether you’re planning a meeting, birthday celebration or wedding. The winery has indoor and outdoor options, including a spacious tasting room and a large veranda, complete with a large fire pit and scenic view. Looking for a unique place to say your vows? Sand Creek Winery can help you with all aspects of your special day. The winery caters delicious homemade meals on-premises and even makes and decorates custom wedding cakes.  
 
1888 County Road 342
Fulton, MO 65251
 
 
Serenity Valley Winery has a couple of options for your next meeting or special event. The winery’s cozy tasting room is perfect for gatherings of less than 30 people. They also have a 40 x 80 ClearSpan structure on concrete slab with LED dimmable cafe lights and cathedral windows. In addition, there is an adjoining 40x80 gravel pad that can be used for outdoor seating, yard games or, if needed, an additional tent. Your guests will have lovely views of a peaceful countryside field.
 
Stone Hill Winery
1110 Stone Hill Highway 
Hermann, MO 65041
 

 

 

 

 

 

Stone Hill Winery’s 170+ year old hand-dug, limestone rock wine cellars and the entire historic main winery property offer a unique relaxed ambiance set among the Norton grapevines ~ perfect for weddings, corporate gatherings and any occasion. From the covered outdoor deck overlooking the vineyard, to the glass atrium with wishing waterfall, the inviting various spaces can accommodate up to 250 guests ~ each with authentic character and charm that cannot be replicated. When more than wine is needed, Stone Hill’s Vintage Restaurant creates delicious tailored menus for intimate to large outings: corporate meetings, wedding showers, rehearsal dinners and receptions.

10501 U.S. Hwy 36
Easton, MO 64443
 
 
Tipple Hill Winery is set in a beautiful countryside with great views from inside or outside on the deck area. You can rent out the winery’s tasting room which seats 70 people or reserve half of the room while the other space stays open to the public. The winery also has a private area in the downstairs section of their winery available for your special event. This area seats 25 inside with seating for 30 on the patio and lawn area. The winery’s lawn area is limited to 150. You may bring in food or use a caterer of your choice. The winery is not available to rent on Saturdays. 
 
120 S. Main St.
Independence, MO 64050
 
 
Located in Historic Independence Square, Top Hat Winery provides a down-home feeling for your special events. Choose from the winery’s catering partners or bring in your own food. Optional activities for your group include canvas or wine glass painting. The winery can accommodate 45 – 60 guests and offers a selection of wines, hard ciders and beer.  
 
8381 US-60
Mountain View, MO 65548
 
 
Viandel Vineyard is located in the pristine Ozark mountain woodlands. The winery offers interior and exterior event space, weather pending. Their interior space seats up to 30 guests with space for 50 without seating. The covered patio accommodates seating for 60. The winery also features a beautiful lawn that overlooks the vineyard with limitless seating. Viandel Vineyard offers food service or you can work with one of their catering partners.
 
12323 Rottler Lane
Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670
 
 
Weingarten Vineyard has beautiful options for your next meeting or event. The winery’s Riesling Reception Hall is spacious, perfect for groups up to 300 people. The space features a stone fireplace, arched wood ceiling, adjoining covered patio and spectacular view of the vineyard and scenery that stretches for miles. An optional outdoor wedding ceremony on the covered patio is available.
 
The Chambourcin room has a southern facing private deck that overlooks the vineyard and encompasses a stunning view. This space offers a variety of setup options for personal or professional gatherings up to 50.
 
You can view the beautiful Missouri seasons in the Saison room featuring an upper level glass enclosed balcony. Designed for larger events, the room’s deep, rich tones surround guests in a refined atmosphere. The space can accommodate 100.
 
107 Vine Street
Macon, MO 63552
 
 
Book West Winery’s downtown Macon location for your next event. Their 1880s building features indoor seating that overlooks their winemaking area. The winery can accommodate 50 inside their tasting room and, weather pending, can bring the outdoors in by rolling up their glass front. You can provide your own food or the winery is happy to help with catering options. Event rental includes use of their Wi-Fi, sound system and high-definition projector with 110" screen.
 
34751 Miller Road
Smithon, MO 65350
 
 
Plan your next event at Wildlife Ridge Winery. The winery is located on a 98 acre farm and features a lake and beautiful countryside. The winery is open year round and hosts private events on the days the winery is closed, Monday and Tuesday, as well as after normal business hours. Interior seating is available for group sizes up to 48. The winery’s catering partners can help you select the perfect menu for your special occasion.
 
 

Busy Year-Round: A Peak Into Missouri Winemaker’s Post-Harvest Routine

November 15, 2018

“The care we take now to manage the plants and their welfare is a long-term investment in the stewardship of our land,” said Andrew Meggitt, winemaker at St. James Winery. Meggitt, along with other winemakers don’t stop working when harvest is over.  For these hardworking folks, the work has just begun. From checking the chemical stability of wine to preparing the vineyard for pruning, here’s a look into continued wine production at a few Missouri wineries. 

Edg-Clif Vineyard Winery & Brewery: Critical Time of Year

At Edg-Clif, as harvest season ends and fermentation is complete, it’s time to monitor and test the basic chemistry and temperature stability of the wines. 

Through strategic scheduling and planning, red wines start aging in barrels. “This becomes a choreographed endeavor that requires careful planning to rack the 2017 vintage reds from the barrel, clean and inspect those barrels, then refill them with the 2018 vintage,” said Cyndy Keesee, winemaker at Edg-Clif Vineyard Winery & Brewery. The catch? This whole process is done in the same day!

Once the new year begins and cold stability is complete, bottling begins. The bottling process typically begins toward the end of February.  

Balducci Vineyards: Transferring to Barrels

 

As the harvest season flows from October into early November at Balducci Vineyards, many of the wines have fermented dry. However, the norton grape still needs time. Norton requires ongoing attention. It will continue to macerate with the seeds and skins for at least 30 additional days.

At this point, the white wines have been racked for months on the lees and will be bottled in about four to six months. The chambourcin has been transferred to the barrel and will remain there for another 10 months as it progresses through malolactic fermentation1.

And finally, deep cleaning begins and all the harvest equipment is put away until next year – but the work to make great Missouri wines isn’t over!

St. James Winery: Crafting Wines After Harvest

    

At St. James Winery, as the vineyard leaves begin to turn and harvest season is drawing to a close, winemakers and grape growers begin to think about the days that remain in the calendar year. 

In the cellar, fermentations are slowing or complete and production staff begin blending the first of the wines. From now until the new year, the creation of the 2018 vintage involves filtration, tasting, fining and making any needed tannin adjustments.   

Meanwhile, preparation begins for next year’s crop in the vineyard. Soil samples are taken and the team analyzes and considers adjustments for early 2019. The graft unions are covered to protect them from the winter temperatures and the trellis is repaired, posts replaced and preparations made for pruning in December. Other pre-pruning practices include moving rocks, replacing dead wood and removing damaged vines. 

Four Horses and a Dog Winery: From Fermentation to Finished Goods

  

Four Horses and a Dog Winery closes out harvest season as they crush their remaining grapes. 

For their vignoles, everything that was grown this year was harvested by August and has since been placed into fermentation tanks. The chambourcin grapes, harvested mid-October, are being processed and will soon be fermented. The year will close out as they label their 2017 vintages. 

This year Four Horses and a Dog Winery is a little busier than most winters! They’re currently expanding and adding a warehouse to the property for additional fermentation tanks and space for finished wine. Exciting, yet busy times are ahead at the winery!

Crown Valley Winery: White and Red Wine Fermentation

As the year winds down and winter draws near, it’s time to start fermentation at Crown Valley Winery. While harvest concludes, red wines are being pressed and in some cases are moved into the process of malolactic fermentation1.

The cellar crew is hard at work and busy with their day-to-day operations. The Crown Valley crew works diligently to co-pack the majority of their products. They have canning lines as well as multiple bottling lines to help bring products to market for the beverage industry.  

Chaumette Vineyards & Winery: Cold Stabilization and Cleaning Equipment

Harvest is wrapping up at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery and fermentation is almost complete. The white grapes ripened later than normal this year so they are nearing the end of the fermentation process.  

Other activities that are unfolding at the winery include racking the wine off the yeast, letting the wine settle and consolidating tanks at the warehouse. All of this is done to prepare for the mixing and blending that will soon take place.  

Cold stabilization will occur shortly and even though it doesn’t affect the taste or quality of the wine, this process ensures that crystals won’t form after the wine has been bottled. As the temperatures cool, winter provides a prime environment for stabilization to take place.  

Lastly, in addition to wine production running through each of its stages, there is always equipment, facilities and areas that need to be scrubbed and cleaned. Although it’s hard to believe, the 2019 harvest season will be here before we know it! 

For Missouri wineries, a lot is happening at all times of the year. Whether it’s farm teams working hard in the vineyard, or the cellar teams crafting great wines… all of the hard work comes together to produce the spectacular Missouri wine we all know and appreciate. 

 

1Malolactic Fermentation:Process in which in which tart-tasting malic acid, naturally present in grape must, is converted to softer-tasting lactic acid

Missouri Wine Trail Spotlight: Meramec River Wine Trail

November 13, 2018

Amid the peaks and the valleys of the Ozark Highlands, winds the Meramec River, one of the longest free-flowing waterways in the United States. You’ll also find a beautiful countryside and a selection of Missouri wineries that form the Meramec River Wine Trail, the perfect destination for those who enjoy the outdoors and delicious Missouri wines.

With eight wineries on the Meramec River Wine trail the most difficult decision may be where to start. Consider beginning your adventures on the road nicknamed Main Street America. Historic Route 66 curves its way through Missouri and will lead you to two wineries on the trail: Belmont Vineyards and St. James Winery. Belmont Vineyards offers views of the rolling Ozark hills and a tasting room filled with European antiques and locally crafted art reminiscent of old world Europe. Enjoy their select wines and food in a casual dining atmosphere. You can also get your kicks on Route 66 at St. James Winery. The historic road runs past the winery’s vineyards. Relax with your favorite wine and order delicious food to pair with it in The Gardens. Try your hand at bocce ball or test your chess skills on a life-sized board at the winery.

Four additional wineries call the St. James community home and invite you to enjoy their delicious wines and warm hospitality. Enjoy wine, food and delicatessen, including artisan breads, pies and cakes at Eagle’s Landing. Sip fine wines on the terrace at Heinrichshaus Vineyards and Winery. Enjoy a variety of Missouri varietals and signature blends at the newly renovated Meramec Vineyards. The winery offers a bistro menu with a savory selection of food items. Three Squirrels Winery is located in a former dairy barn and, in addition to featuring a variety of wines, showcases the talents of local and regional artists in their art gallery.

While you’re exploring St. James, don’t miss out on the opportunity to take a stroll down memory lane and check out the vast collection of vacuum cleaners at, where else, the world’s first Vacuum Cleaner Museum and Factory Outlet.

Your trip is not complete without a visit to Peaceful Bend Vineyard in Steelville and Red Moose Vineyard in Salem. Enjoy a selection of blended wines at Peaceful Bend Vineyards, each wine named after the creeks and rivers that surround the winery. You can also enjoy a delightful dish to compliment your wine selection in their new building. Red Moose Vineyard offers a variety of Missouri varietal and blended wines. Sit under the winery’s canopy and enjoy a beautiful view of their lake.

You might consider timing your trip to coincide with a Meramec River Wine Trail event. The trail hosts several events throughout the year, including Bootlegger’s, Be Mine with Wine, Rosé All Day, Homegrown Harvest and Spooky Cellars. Each of the trail’s signature events includes fantastic food or tasty treats paired perfectly with Missouri wine.

For those who seek adventure, there are plenty of opportunities in the area. Meramec State Park in Sullivan is surrounded by beautiful campgrounds where you can hike, canoe and zip line through the hills. There are more than 40 caves located throughout the park, including Fisher Cave, where you’ll find well-preserved bear claw marks, cave wildlife and a variety of calcite deposits. Take a tour of Meramec Caverns and learn about the ancient limestone “Wine Table” and the underground 7 story mansion. If you enjoy fishing, bring your rod and gear to Maramec Spring Park, home to the fifth largest spring in the state. The Missouri Department of Conservation stocks the fishing stream daily. You can camp onsite nine months out of the year. If camping is not your thing, find a quaint bed-and-breakfast located in the surrounding communities. 

This is only a glimpse of what you will find when you visit the wineries and explore the countryside along the Meramec River Wine Trail. We invite you to do your research and plan ahead of time so you get the most out of your trip. Enjoy the scenery and create your own adventure in Missouri wine country!

Chambourcin Chocolate Cupcakes

November 08, 2018

 

It’s not easy to improve upon the classic chocolate cupcake recipe. But here at Missouri Wines, we cracked the code with this mouth-watering wine cupcake! 

Have you ever thought about baking with wine? If you haven’t, you should definitely give it a try! These chocolate cupcakes mixed with our very own Missouri-made Chambourcin make for the most moist, rich, full of flavor, scrumptious treat. We would highly recommend this baked good for any occasion. 

(This recipe calls for coconut flour, but the ingredient can easily be substituted with a 
wheat-based flour.)

Chambourcin Chocolate Cupcakes

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Serving Size: 12 Cupcakes

Cupcake Ingredients:

 

6 tbsp - Unsalted butter, room temperature

¾ cup - Dark brown sugar, packed

¼  cup - Granulated sugar

1 Large Egg + yolk, room temperature

¾ cup - Chambourcin wine

1 tsp - Vanilla extract

1 cup + 1 tbsp - Coconut flour 1

½ cup - Cocoa powder

1/8 tsp - Baking soda

½ tsp - Baking powder

¼ tsp - Salt

¼ tsp - Ground cinnamon

 

Icing Ingredients:

8 oz. - Cream cheese

¾  cup - Chilled heavy whipping cream

2 tbsp - Granulated sugar

Sprinkles 2

 

Directions: 

Preheat over to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners.

In a large bowl, sift together coconut flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Whisk to combine. Set aside. 

In the bowl of a standard mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, mix together butter and dark brown and granulated sugar for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add in the egg + yolk, beating well.  Next, mix in the Chambourcin and vanilla. 

Slowly add in the dry ingredients and mix until it’s all combined and mixed well. 

Use an ice cream scoop and divide the batter into the lined muffin pan. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely. 

In the meantime, to make the frosting, whip together cream cheese, heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until soft peaks form. Put frosting into piping bag (or Ziploc bag and snip the corner) and pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes. Make sure the cupcakes are completely cool before icing.

Be sure to enjoy with a glass of Missouri Chambourcin!

 

Additional Notes: 

1These Chambourcin cupcakes were made gluten-free by using coconut versus wheat flour.

2For added beauty, and a seasonal touch, feel free to add your favorite sprinkles.

 

 

5 Common Wine Myths

November 05, 2018

When it comes to wine, nothing is black or white. Often people base their opinions on their first impressions or a singular experience. There are a lot of misconceptions about wine – have you heard any of the following? 

1. MYTH: A screw cap is a sign of low quality wine. Overtime, screw caps have been associated with large, economy-sized wine production. Many consumers view large industry winemakers as lower-quality, thus creating the myth that all screw cap wines are lower in quality than wines with corks. 

Even though screw caps get a bad rap, they really aren’t a sign of poor quality wine. Screw caps are actually used for many reasons, all which essentially increase the quality of wine. One of the reasons winemakers use screw caps is to keep the bottle sealed and not allow oxygen to get into the wine. Producers also choose screw caps versus corks to reduce the risk of cork failure. 

2. MYTH: Since wines improve with age, they never go bad, even after opening. This is nottrue. Once a bottle of wine is opened, it has a shelf life. The type of wine determines the shelf life. 

To preserve the wine as long as possible, you should always seal and refrigerate wine after opening. 

Red wine typically lasts 5-7 days after being opened and white wine for 3-5 days. After this period, the wine is past its prime. 

3. MYTH: Expensive wine is better. Although expensive wine canbe high quality wine, that is not always the case. A price tag is not a true indication of a wine’s worth. Many factors play into the overall cost of a wine, including labor, barrels, bottles and grape production as well as label design and packaging. 

4. MYTH: Old wines are better. Did you know wine is actually perishable? Most wines are meant to be enjoyed within the first one to fiveyears of their life – their life outside of the barrel!  

The most age-worthy wines are those with solid acidity and structured tannins – like Norton. 

5. MYTH: Red wine is better for you than white. A lot of people claim that red wine is healthier than white. Without getting into the heart health debate, if we are just looking at calories, white wine actually tends to have less calories. Check out our Missouri wine calorie chart for more information: 

 

References: 
Grapecollective.com 
Missouriwine.org

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