Whether you are shopping for yourself or a fellow wine lover, it can be overwhelming finding the perfect gift. While shopping, keep in mind that the perfect wine experience starts with the right tools.

Here are seven things that every wine lover needs when enjoying Missouri wine.

• A wine opener is a must-have to uncork your favorite bottle.
  • Electric wine opener
  • Most local wineries will have wine openers for sale
• Wine glasses that are specifically designed for the type of wine you're drinking can enhance the aroma and taste.
  • Stemless
  • Norton
  • Vignoles
  • Ouverture
  • Flute
• Wine decanter can help bring out the flavors and aromas of your wine.
  • Chrystal Glass
  • Riedel Horn
• Wine bottle stopper can help preserve an open bottle of wine.
  • Christmas-themed
  • Basic design
• Wine fridge or cooler can keep your wine at the perfect temperature.
  • 6-Bottle Cooler
  • 24-bottle Cooler
• Bottle insulated wine tote to help bring wine on the go.
  • 2 bottle tote
  • 6 bottle tote
• Wine club membership to indulge in a variety of local wines.
  • Local wine clubs

With these seven ideas, you'll be able to enjoy your Missouri wine to the fullest and find the perfect gift for all the wine lovers in your life.

As the temperature drops and winter drifts into Missouri, wine tasting begins to look a little different. There are still ample ways to enjoy Missouri wine country, as many wineries offer indoor seating and winter-themed events.

Winter in wine country of Missouri is a magical experience. While the vines are dormant, the wineries are bustling with activity. You can enjoy sipping on a glass of wine while sitting next to a fireplace and taking in the beautiful views of the snow-covered vineyards. Some wineries offer guided tours of their production facilities, which can be a great way to learn about the art of winemaking. Additionally, many wineries host winter events such as wine tastings, food pairings, and live music performances. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also take a winter hike through the vineyards and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the winter countryside.

Click here for Missouri wineries that have indoor seating.

Listed below are some winter Missouri Wine country events!

11/30-12/10: Hermann Farm Christmas Experience

12/8: Christmas Walk Buffet – Mount Pleasant Estates

12/9: Trolley Wine Tour – Excelsior Springs Chamber Trolley

12/10: Holiday Sip, Savor and Shop – Defiance Ridge Vineyards

12/15: Holiday Sparkling Wine Dinner – Chandler Hill Vineyards

12/16: Christopher Elbow Chocolate Holiday Special – TerraVox Winery

12/17: Holiday Brunch at The Bistro – Les Bourgeois Vineyards

No matter what your interests are, there's something for everyone to enjoy in wine country during the winter season.

Are you looking for a fun and creative way to upcycle your empty wine bottles? Look no further than this wine bottle craft! By wrapping the bottles in sheet music, you can create a charming and unique decoration that adds a whimsy touch to any space. Whether you're a music lover or simply appreciate the beauty of vintage decor, this craft will impress. Grab a bottle of your favorite Missouri wine (or two) and let's get crafty!

SUPPLIES:

• An empty wine bottle
• Sheet music (we used two sheets)
• Mod Podge
• Water
• (OPTIONAL) Fairy lights

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Remove the label on the wine bottle. Check out this blog to find the easiest way to remove the label.
2. Tear the sheet music into strips.
3. Begin applying Mod Podge straight onto the bottle and place sheet music on glue. Overlap pieces to add texture to the bottle. We recommend adding flat pieces to the bottom edge of the bottle.
4. Let your bottle dry.
5. (OPTIONAL) Feed fairy lights into the bottle to add flair to this craft.

This DI-Wine project is not only environmentally friendly, but it also provides an opportunity for you to express your creativity and personal style. Gather your supplies and let your imagination run wild as you transform your old wine bottles into beautiful works of art. Cheers to a fun and rewarding crafting experience!

Looking for the perfect wine to gift for the holidays? Take advantage of shopping close to home on Small Business Saturday and support local wine shops.

Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to shop local and support your community. By shopping at these small businesses, you can not only find unique and high-quality wines, but also help support your local economy.

Local wine shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect bottle for any occasion and provide recommendations based on your preferences. Additionally, many shops offer tastings or events, providing a fun and educational experience for wine lovers.

Parker’s Table – St. Louis

Parker's Table is a small, independent business that has been catering to wine and specialty food enthusiasts since 1995. From Missouri to across the country, they offer a wide range of high-quality wines to satisfy any palate. Parker's Table believes that good food and wine should be an integral part of daily life, and they strive to make that belief a reality for their customers. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, Parker's Table is the perfect place to explore new flavors and discover your next favorite bottle on Small Business Saturday.

Made in KC – Kansas City

Made in KC is a local shop that offers a wide range of goods, from local gifts to apparel. With 10 locations across Kansas City, this shop is a great spot to visit for anyone looking to support small businesses. In addition to their vast selection of products, Made in KC also offers local Missouri wine, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of the area. With seasonal decor available, this store is an ideal spot to shop on Small Business Saturday, as it is a great way to celebrate and support the local community.

Willow Spring Mercantile – Excelsior Springs

Willow Spring Mercantile is a charming boutique retailer that offers a wide variety of Missouri wines. They are the perfect place to shop on Small Business Saturday. Since its establishment in 2005, this unique shop has become known for having the largest selection of Missouri-made wines, craft beers, and distilled spirits in the state, as well as for its small bistro that serves an excellent lunch. In addition to the wine, the main floor also houses a gift shop that offers gourmet chocolates, handcrafted soaps, gemstone and sterling silver jewelry, photography and artwork, gourmet foods, fresh roasted coffee and beans, loose leaf teas, gift baskets, and more. Downstairs, visitors can find a cozy bistro and wine cellar, where they can relax and unwind while enjoying a gourmet lunch and a bottle of wine from a Missouri winery.

Show Me Shop – Ste. Genevieve

If you're looking for a unique shopping experience, Show Me Shop in Ste. Genevieve is definitely worth a visit. As a wine shop specializing in Missouri wines, they have an impressive selection that's sure to please any wine lover. But that's not all they offer! Their selection of gourmet foods, unique gifts and specialty baskets is extensive, and you're sure to find something for everyone on your list. Show Me Shop also offers seasonal gifts and greeting cards, making them the perfect place to shop for those hard-to-buy-for people on your list. And if you're looking to support local businesses, Show Me Shop is the perfect spot to visit on Small Business Saturday.

Missouri Trading Post – Hermann

Stop into the Missouri Trading Post in Hermann and discover a world of wine, gifts, and seasonal items! This family-owned shop boasts an impressive selection of Missouri wines, with a focus on those produced by small, family-owned wineries. Additionally, they offer an impressive collection of locally made crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and artwork. For those looking to support small businesses, Missouri’s Trading Post is a fantastic place to shop on Small Business Saturday. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind gifts, but you’ll also be supporting the local economy and helping to preserve the unique character of this historic town.

Friar Tuck Beverage – Fenton

Friar Tuck Beverage, located in Fenton, is a fantastic destination for wine, beer, and spirits enthusiasts. Their selection of Missouri Wines is particularly noteworthy, with a great variety to choose from. Whether you're looking for a rich red or a crisp white, Friar Tuck is sure to have something to suit your taste. Additionally, Friar Tuck is a great destination for small business Saturday, providing a local option for holiday shopping. Their knowledgeable staff is always on hand to help you select the perfect bottle for any occasion, making Friar Tuck a must-visit for anyone in the Fenton area.

So this Small Business Saturday, consider visiting your local wine shop and discover the wide variety of wines they have to offer.

Missouri has beautiful winters, and what better way to enjoy the season than with a glass of wine? The state boasts a thriving wine industry with wineries producing unique and flavorful wines. Winter is the perfect time to sample some of Missouri's seasonal wines that pair perfectly with cozy nights.

Holly Berry – Dale Hollow Winery

This sweet blackberry wine is not one to miss. Katy Dale says, “Our family loves the holiday season and wine is a staple at our Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities. We release a holiday-inspired wine label every year to hopefully help others have a little more joy this time of year.”

Cranberry Bubbly – St. James Winery

Cranberry Bubbly is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a special celebration or a casual get-together with friends. Its beautiful pink hue and sophisticated taste make it an ideal wine to serve at dinner parties or to enjoy as an aperitif. St. James Winery's Cranberry Bubbly is a wonderful addition to any wine collection and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Frohlichwein Winter Spice – Wenwood Farm Winery

Frohlichwein is a grape wine blended with fall fruits, like cranberry and apple, along with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and a splash of raspberry. This winter seasonal wine is designed to be heated and enjoyed warm, like a mulled wine or cider. This wine is inspired by the Gluhweins of Germany, adding a Missouri twist to this winter tradition.

Cranberry & Plum – Hemman Winery

Cranberry is a sweet but tart wine that is perfect for any holiday celebration. This wine is great to cook with. Try a glaze for meatballs or even a pork loin! Cranberry wine is a versatile ingredient that adds a tangy and fruity flavor to any dish it’s used in. The sweetness of cranberry wine makes it an excellent ingredient to add to savory dishes.

Plum is a sweet red wine with a hint of cinnamon. This special wine pairs well with a variety of foods, including spicy Asian dishes, grilled meats, and rich desserts. It is also a great addition to cocktails, adding a unique and delicious twist to traditional drinks.

Mull It Over – Adam Puchta Winery

This seasonal exclusive wine is rich with exotic spices, and an enticing orange zest on the nose with bold flavors of cinnamon and clove. Subtle cherry and brown sugar excite the palate while a hint of light orange gives it a pleasant citrus finish. This special wine would be perfectly served warm while cozied up by the fireplace.

Perry & Hollyberry Red Chambourcin – Edg-Clif Vineyard & Winery

Made from the beautiful pears in their own orchard. Edg-Clif Vineyard & Winery uses multiple varieties of heirloom pears go into make this traditional English-style Perry Wine - semi-dry, fruity, crisp, and slightly effervescent. This is a great wine to serve with a celebration turkey!

Hollyberry Red Chambourcin is a semi-sweet wine with loads of blackberry flavor which is pleasing chilled or yummy warm with the mulling spices, orange and brandy added for a cold winter evening. Steffie Littlefield, co-owner of Edg-Clif Vineyard & Winery, says, “[We] wanted to create a holiday wine that was giftable by itself or as a DIY package with recipe ingredients.”

Ginger Wonderland & Traditions – Brix Urban Winery

Ginger Wonderland is a unique and delightful winter mead made with smoked candied ginger, cinnamon sticks, and the marshmallow goodness of flower honey.

Traditions is a plum and cranberry wine that is a best seller for Brix Urban Winery and is the perfect blend of sweet and tart. It is also perfect for any mulled wine recipe.

Chase-N-Berry & Mary Kathryn’s Cranberry – Small Batch Winery

Discover the powerful and delicious acai fruit, blended perfectly with raspberry.
If you're looking for a new flavor experience, look no further than the Chase-N-Berry wine from Small Batch Winery! This small but mighty fruit packs a punch, especially when blended with raspberry. Its rich and unique taste will leave you wanting more. Enjoy it with friends and family at any gathering, big or small.

Savor the crisp taste of cranberries coupled with the fruity richness of this ruby-colored Mary Kathryn’s Cranberry wine. The robust yet elegant sweet berry flavors make for a truly delightful experience. This wine would be a perfect combination with holiday turkey or even ham.

Chai Spice – Van Till Family Farm Winery

Chai Spice is a sweet wine that smells and tastes like ‘Christmas in a bottle’. The Van Till team infused a blend of spices into a tank of red wine blend, and their Chai Spice was born! This unique wine pairs well with pumpkin pie and spicy foods.

Kris Kringle – Baltimore Bend Vineyard

This holiday wine is blended with Vignoles and Norton grape varieties with cinnamon. The bottles display a festive label created by a local artist, Mary Scanlin. This year's label helps commemorate their 20th anniversary in the wine industry. Sarah Schmidt, Co-Owner of Baltimore Bend Vineyard, says, “Kris Kringle is great enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but is especially tasty warmed with mulling spices through the cold winter months”. This wine has made an appearance in the Baltimore Bend wine list for 12 years now and continues to be a popular one.

Winter White - Les Bourgeois Vineyards

This seasonal, sweet white blend presents aromas of vanilla blossom and candied pear on the nose transitioning into layers of fruit notes of jammy peach, kiwi, melon and grapefruit zest. The Les Bourgeois Vineyards team wanted to show wine lovers that winter is not just for red wines, so Winter White was born!

Cranberry - Stone Hill Winery

This is a sweet seasonal wine, bursting with the aroma and flavor of ripe cranberries. Perfect for any Holiday celebration, Stone Hill Cranberry flavored grape wine can be served with your favorite foods, poured over ice, or even used in the kitchen as part of a special Holiday treat!

Missouri wineries have much to offer during the winter season. From bold reds to crisp whites, there is a wine to suit every palate. So, this winter, why not explore the seasonal Missouri wines and discover your new favorite bottle? Cheers to a season filled with warmth, joy, and great wine!

Cranberries and wine? Don't mind if we do! This easy-to-make Red Wine Cranberry sauce is bursting with flavor and made with love (and a little Missouri magic). Whether you're a traditionalist or like to mix things up, this sauce is a must-try for the holidays.

INGREDIENTS

1 package fresh or frozen cranberries (12 oz.)

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

1 cup dry red wine (we used Röbller Vineyard’s Chambourcin)

1/8 tsp allspice

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients; bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat to medium; cook, uncovered, until most of the berries pop, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Transfer to a bowl; cool slightly. Refrigerate, covered, until cold (sauce will thicken upon cooling)
3. Serve and enjoy!

Whether you're looking to impress guests at your next dinner party or simply want to add a little pizzazz to your fall menu, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try today and taste for yourself just how delicious Missouri wine can be!?

Chambourcin truffles are a delectable treat that combines the luxurious flavor of dark chocolate with the rich, fruity notes of Chambourcin wine. These decadent treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress your guests at a dinner party or indulge in a sweet treat for yourself. Each bite is a heavenly experience, with a smooth, creamy texture and a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.

INGREDIENTS:

8 OZ bittersweet chocolate

1/3 C heavy cream

1 TSP espresso powder

1 TSP unsweetened cocoa powder

3 TBSP dry red wine (we used Mathany Family Vineyards’ 2019 Chambourcin)

1 TSP pure vanilla extract

(OPTIONAL) Toppings – Sprinkles, melted dark chocolate, dehydrated fruits

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Finely chop the chocolate and place into a medium heat-safe bowl.
2. Pour the heavy cream into a small saucepan and place pan over medium heat. Heat until it is barely below a boil.
3. Place heavy cream into the bowl with the chocolate. Add espresso powder and cocoa powder. Stir the mixture slowly.
4. Stir in the red wine and vanilla extract. Place bowl into the refrigerator to firm up for up to 40 minutes.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop into mounds. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Shape the mounds into a ball with your hand and roll in toppings of your choice.
7. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Chambourcin truffles, infused with the finest Missouri wine. A heavenly treat for the taste buds and a true celebration of local flavors.

Imagine having everything you worked for over 33 years disappear in the flick of a flame. This is a feeling that Hank Johnson, owner of Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, knows all too well.

The morning of July 8, 2021 began like any other day. Hank Johnson and his wife, Jackie Johnson, started their morning and checked in at their winery, which sits on 310 acres of land in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri.

The day progressed as normal until around 7 p.m. when Hank happened to glance towards the wine production facility, seeing something that stopped him straight in his tracks. He saw a little red flame and thought to himself, “What in the world is that?”

His shoes pressed against the loud and dense gravel as his gaze led his eyes towards the production facility, only 100-yards from his and Jackie’s house. By the time Hank had reached the door handle and pulled it towards him, there was a black wall of smoke.

“I knew from the beginning, this was going to be a total loss” Hank said. The flames engulfed the building and burned for over 4 hours, demolishing 9,000 square feet and depleting 20,000 bottles of wine. The 2020 vintage of their latest bottling was gone before it even had the opportunity to be opened.

There was 22 minutes that separated when 911 was called and the firetrucks arriving. 175,000 gallons of water drenched the production facility, eliminating the 9,000-degree flames in its path and keeping the fire from reaching the woods. But even after those efforts, it was too late. Everything was melted and nothing remained of the building.

An eternal optimist at heart, Hank’s eyes saw not the defeat before him but only hope for the winery’s future. “I have to admit I am very positive about things and I knew we would be okay,” he said.

Hank is said to be someone who always has a vision. “Hank is not only the guy that said we would recover from the fire but when there was nothing here but cow pasture, he sat on this ridge and said ‘This is where the tasting room should go’” said Charles Brazeale, General Manager at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery.

It took 1 vision, 2 new winemakers, and 3 years for the winery to fully recover. It truly takes a village. Or in Hank’s case, an industry that lends itself.

The current winemakers are Jeff and Jodi Atkins, a couple new to the Ste. Genevieve area with a passion for wine. With wisdom from local winemakers, Jeff and Jodi grounded their feet and eventually begin to develop their own craft. They won two awards at the 2023 Missouri Governor’s Cup Wine Competition, including a gold medal for their 2022 Norton and a silver medal for their 2022 Unoaked Chardonel.

Chaumette Vineyards & Winery is known for much more than their wine though. They offer an experience, composed of food, wine, and hospitality.

As guests drive through the gate and up the gravel road, they are met with the pristine view of private villas, rolling vineyards, a spacious pool, local hiking trails and the opportunity to truly ‘stay and play’.

“People tell me when they come through the gate, they feel relaxed and then they figure they are far enough from home to feel like they are in a different spot,” Hank says. “We are different than other wineries. I want guests to be able to come and have beautiful places to stay.”

Grapevine Grill, rated the #1 Best Winery Restaurant in the nation by USA Today two years in a row, is also a staple of the grounds that offers exquisite cuisine and an elevated dining experience for everyone.

Perched on top of the hill sits a historic Saint Vincent’s chapel that Hank purchased and had moved onto the grounds 20 year’s ago. He wanted to keep the authentic charm of the church, keeping every wooden pew, decoration, and cross as the original piece. His mission was to create a space that encompasses all, no matter who they are. Hanks says that “…welcoming everyone is an important part of who we are.”

“Whoever you are, you are welcome here,” Charles added. 

Surviving a fire to their production facility is only a sliver of this winery's story. There is an innovative future ahead for Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, a legacy that Hank Johnson wishes he could continue.

With a pivot towards prioritizing family time and the blessing of new opportunities, Hank has decided to sell Chaumette Vineyards & Winery. It will forever hold a special place in his heart as Hank and his family are proud of what they have built.

Hank Johnson will always remain an important and influential part of Chaumette Vineyards & Winery and is the perfect person to admire for his contribution to the wine industry, as well as his dedication to making the world a more welcoming and better place.

Fall in love with this bubbly blend of Missouri wines and pumpkin spice. Sip, savor, and let the flavors cozy up to your taste buds. It's the perfect pick-me-up for cool autumn nights.

INGREDIENTS:

4 oz. Sweet White Wine (We used Stonehaus Farms Vignoles)

1 oz. Pumpkin Spice Syrup

Seltzer

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Add ice to shaker
2. Pour 1 oz. of pumpkin spice syrup and 4 oz. of sweet white wine into shaker, and shake
3. Strain mixture into a glass
4. Top with seltzer
5. Enjoy!

Whether you're enjoying it at a cozy bonfire with friends or sipping it on your front porch, this spritzer is sure to bring a smile to your face. So, the next time you're in the mood for a festive and flavorful beverage, give this Pumpkin Spice Spritzer a try – your taste buds will thank you!