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.