September brings an array of delights – football season kicks off, the crisp fall air sets in, and we celebrate a few cherished holidays. But perhaps the most exciting highlight is that September is Missouri Wine month, a time to savor the rich flavors and the unique varietals of all the local vineyards. Each and every winery in Missouri puts in countless hours to handcraft great wines made uniquely for you.

5 ways that Missouri wine country was uniquely made for you.  

1. Our grapes are very versatile, winemakers can create unique wines that will taste different across the state. 
2. Missouri wine country is always hosting unique events – check our calendar to find one near you.
3. Many of our wineries offer unique lodging, bed-and-breakfast as well as event spaces for one-of-a-kind experiences. 
4. The views in Missouri wine country are unmatched from the rolling hills, fall leaves, waterfront views, relaxing patios and so much more!
5. 128 destinations across the state of Missouri to visit. 

To celebrate these wineries along with each and every one of you we are going to present you with a challenge. When you visit ten wineries and check in during the month of September you will be able to receive a Missouri Wines hat. This challenge is part of our loyalty program, Rewards Uncorked! You must redeem points for this

(Embroidery may vary, hats will be mailed out at the beginning of October.) 

While out visiting Missouri wine country don’t forget to capture the beauty of the experience. We are holding our annual “Through the Glass” photo contest. Submit your photo by October 4^th. We would love to see your unique view of Missouri wine country.

We invite you to celebrate Missouri Wine month by visiting Missouri wine country and experiencing its unique offerings, made just for you! Remember to share your photos with us using #MoWine!

Poppy’s Vidal Blanc from Defiance Ridge Vineyards was the 2024 People’s Choice Award winner, at our Missouri Governor’s Cup Wine Competition.

When looking at this label you may notice the gentle stream, the quiet woods on the bank and the man with the fishing pole. This man may seem like just a part of the picture, but there is more to him than meets the eye.  We took a look behind this label and learned more about this fisherman and his signature hat on the Poppy’s Vidal Blanc Label. 

Poppy’s Vidal Blanc is named after owner Chuck Gillentine’s kids’ grandfather, John J. Shillington, who passed away on Christmas Eve 2018. Everyone affectively called him Poppy. One of his pleasures in life was trout fishing at Rockbridge, Missouri. Using rooster tails as choice in lures. Poppy was always up before anyone else at his favorite fishing spot, located around a bend and bluff with a strong current. John always wore the hat in the label. He also enjoyed a nice fruity dry white wine, much like Defiance Ridge’s Vidal Blanc. 

The overall designing of the label was a joint effort by Justin, Chuck’s son, and Allison Laupp, who paints their labels. After their collaboration it was sent to their graphic designer, Cindy Summers, made their vision come to life.

Chuck worked for Poppy for 23 years.  He was a third-generation owner of Shillington Box Company. He was loved by everyone where he walked his factory floor daily, talking to all his employees. He had a love for outdoors, fishing and animals, especially birds. He used to feed raccoons from his home office and whistle Whippoorwills to his feet. He was a great friend to everyone.

Be sure to visit Defiance Ridge Vineyards and try Poppy’s Vidal Blanc!

See our full list of results from our 2024 Missouri Governor’s Cup Wine Competition here.