The Parson’s House sits high on a hill in the heart of Defiance, Missouri, overlooking the scenic Missouri River Valley. The historic home was built in 1842 by Thomas and Phoebe Parson, who had ventured west from Virginia in 1840. Their family settled high on the ridge and farmed more than 1,000 acres of land there long before the town of Defiance was established.

Their grandson, William Lee Parson, Sr., played a key role in establishing the town of Defiance. The tale is told that the town’s name would have been Parsons, if it hadn’t been for a Parsons, Kansas, already founded along the Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad (now known as the Katy Trail).

Complete restoration of the historic brick house commenced in 1986 when the property was no longer owned by the Parson family and since has served the community as a Bed & Breakfast. Today, Norm Kellar, a dear friend of Defiance Ridge Vineyards, owns and operates the Parson’s House. Norm is fond of Chardonnay wine which attributes to using the Parson name for this Chardonel label. 

The team at Defiance Ridge Vineyards enjoys commemorating the history of their town by naming wines after cornerstones of their community. Some of these wines include Katy Traminette, named after the nearby iconic Katy Trail, Falling Leaf Off-Dry Vignoles, dedicated to the local Falling Leaf Farm, and of course, Parson House Chardonel.

Guests visiting Defiance can book their stay at the Parson’s House by contacting Norm at 314-280-3555. Enjoy a getaway to the Defiance area and be sure to complete your trip with a stop at Defiance Ridge Winery and a glass of Parson House Chardonel.