Norton is not just a classic, it’s a wine for the ages. It’s our state grape, complex and rich in flavor. Every January, we recognize and honor this special grape.

This grape varietal was originally discovered in Virginia but eventually made its way to the Show-Me state. When Norton arrived in Missouri, it became the star of the show on a national and international stage. A Hermann winery won gold at the World’s Fair in Vienna for their Norton.

German settlers in Hermann set the standard for today’s winemakers who continue to carry on their legacy. Since 2011, the Missouri Wine Competition has recognized and awarded the best Norton in the state with the C.V. Riley award. The award is named in honor of Charles Valentine Riley, the state’s first appointed entomologist who is credited with helping save the French wine industry. Riley discovered that American rootstock was naturally resistant to the Phylloxera, a pest that nearly decimated the vineyards in France.

This year’s C.V. Riley award winner was also the Governor’s Cup winner - Stone Hill Winery’s 2020 Old Vine Reserve Norton. The winery’s President, Jon Held, says, “This wine is extremely unique since it’s produced entirely from a pre-prohibition vineyard of Norton vines planted during the 1860s.”

Jon says “This tiny ¼ acre vineyard only yields two to three barrels of wine per year. This precious vineyard was the source of cutting wood for renewed plantings of Norton as the Missouri wine industry was restarting in the 1960s. It is a special tribute to win with a wine from these old vines since we celebrated the 175th anniversary of Stone Hill Winery last year.”

Norton is a great wine to age and to keep in your collection for years to come.

Celebrate Norton Month by enjoying a glass of the ‘Wine for The Ages’.

The Vixen's Velvet is a decadent concoction made with a blend of three easy ingredients. This cocktail is perfect for anyone who loves the rich and smooth flavors of chocolate and coffee. If you are looking for a cozy drink to enjoy on a cold winter night, Vixen's Velvet is sure to satisfy.

INGREDIENTS:

2 oz Port-style wine

1 oz Kahlua

Eggnog (for topping)

Nutmeg (for topping)

Ice

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Add ice to a shaker.
2. Pour Port-style wine and Kahlua into shaker.
3. Strain into glass with ice.
4. Top with eggnog.
5. Sprinkle with nutmeg and enjoy!

Vixen's Velvet is a delicious and indulgent holiday drink that perfectly combines the strong flavors of Kahlua and Port and the sweetness of Eggnog.

Wine is a beverage that has been enjoyed for thousands of years and has become an integral part of many cultures around the world. However, with its rich history and cultural significance comes a certain level of etiquette that should be followed when enjoying a glass of wine. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of wine, understanding proper wine etiquette is essential to fully appreciate the experience.

SERVING WINE

Serving wine properly is key for a successful dinner celebration. The first step to serving is choosing the proper glassware for the wine you are serving. For example, sparkling, white, rosé and light red wines will need a narrow rim as they concentrate the aromatics and will help the wine stay chilled. Full-bodied wines require a wider rim and bowl which allows the wine to better aerate.

On top of choosing the proper glassware, make sure that the wine is being served at a proper temperature. We recommend following the 3-2-1 rule for refrigerating. 3 hours for sparkling, 2 hours for white and rosé and 1 hour for reds. Additionally, depending on the type of wine you are serving, red wines may taste better being decanted. View this video on how to decant.

When pouring a glass of wine for your guest, try not to overfill their glass. A normal serving of wine is 5 oz, meaning a bottle contains around 5 glasses of wine. We recommend filing the glass up to the widest part of the bowl. 

TASTING WINE

There is a process all wine professionals follow: 5 S’s of Wine Tasting

The first S is ‘see’. Hold your glass against a white background in a well-lit room to admire the color & clarity. A wine's color is influenced by its age & grape variety. As wines age, white wines gain vibrancy, while red wines may lose some pigment.

The next step to wine tasting is ‘swirl’. Hold your glass in front of you, or place on a flat surface, and gently rotate it so the wine swirls about in the glass. Swirling helps aerate and "open up" the wine, releasing its natural aromas.

The third S is ‘smell’. Stick your nose down inside your glass and take a quick, deep inhalation. Much of wine's pleasure is the aroma from the grapes, and the bouquet, which reflects the winemaking process.

The fourth and our favorite S is ‘sip’.  Take a small sip, roll it to coat your tongue (like swishing mouthwash) and breathe in a little air to release the aroma as you are tasting.

The final S is ‘savor’. Most wines have a lingering aftertaste or "finish" even once you've completed the tasting.

GENERAL ETIQUETTE

When holding a wine glass, it may seem logical to cup the bowl. However, this warms up the wine, making it less enjoyable. The proper way is to hold the glass near the bottom of the stem. More specifically, between your thumb and forefinger.

Having good wine etiquette can greatly enhance your wine tasting experience and leave a positive impression on those around you. By following these simple tips, you can become a pro at wine etiquette and enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and aromas that wine has to offer.

Cheers!

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.