MO’s wine country may not be the first destination
that comes to mind when planning a wine-focused trip, but
it’s a region rich with history, diversity, and evolving
viniculture that deserves attention. The state’s wine scene
has been steadily growing since the 19th century, initially
rooted in the traditions of German immigrants who brought
their winemaking knowledge to the fertile lands of the
Midwest. Today, MO is not only known for its hybrid
varieties, such as Norton and Chambourcin, but also for its
success with classic vinifera grapes like Chardonnay,
Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can expect to find
a range of wine styles that reflect both the state’s unique
terroir and the innovative approaches of its winemakers.
In MO, you’ll discover everything from robust reds to
crisp whites, with wineries producing both dry and sweet
wines. The region’s ability to cultivate traditional
European vinifera grapes alongside native and hybrid
varieties showcases its adaptability and commitment to
quality winemaking. Whether you’re a fan of a bold Norton or
prefer the familiar notes of a Merlot, MO’s wineries
offer a little something for everyone.
An American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a designated wine
grape-growing region in the United States distinguishable by
geographic features, with boundaries defined by the Alcohol
and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Missouri is home to
the country’s first designated AVA.
AUGUSTA AVA
The first AVA in the United States was accorded to
Augusta, Missouri on June 20, 1980. Seven California
districts and one in Oregon had filed applications with the
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; however, the honor
went to the 15 square mile area surrounding Augusta. The
bureau cited the unique soil, climate and wines, as well as
Augusta’s long history as one of America’s oldest and
foremost grape and wine districts. In the mid-1800s German
immigrants found the Missouri River area just west of St.
Louis to be well suited for growing grapes. Napa Valley was
the second AVA named after Augusta on January 28, 1981.
OZARK MOUNTAIN AVA
The Ozark Mountain AVA was established on July 2, 1986
and covers a vast 3,500,000 acres in southern Missouri,
extending into northwest Arkansas and northeast Oklahoma.
The Ozark Mountain AVA is so large, several smaller AVA’s
lay within its borders, including Augusta, Hermann and Ozark
Highlands. It is the sixth largest AVA in the United States.
HERMANN AVA
The Hermann AVA was recognized on Auguts 18, 1983 and
consists of 51,200 acres in the Hermann area between St.
Louis and Jefferson City, Missouri. German immigrants
settled the Missouri River Valley area in the 1830s and
began planting vineyards in what is today one of the most
historic wine regions.
OZARK HIGHLANDS AVA
The Ozark Highlands AVA was designated on August 31,
1987; although the grape growing tradition goes back to the
1870s. The fourth accorded AVA in Missouri encompasses
1,280,000 acres in south-central Missouri, covering portions
of eleven Missouri counties including the town of St. James,
Missouri.
LOESS HILLS DISTRICT AVA
The Loess Hills District AVA was established on March 3,
2016 and consists of 12,897 square miles of loess-based
hills comprising a long, narrow region along the western
banks of the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers in western Iowa
and northwestern Missouri. The topography is characterized
by rolling to steep hills. The deep loess enables grape vine
roots to reach deeply into the soil and allows water to
drain quickly.
Here are some of the Wine Trails in MO
Augusta Wine Trail
The Augusta Wine Trail in Missouri was designated as the
“First United States Wine District” in 1980 since wines were
produced here before the Civil War. There are 8 wineries
that make up this trail. They are all family-owned and open
all year round.
The Hermann Wine Trail is a group of six family-owned
wineries ranging from quaint country farms to historic wine
cellars where you will experience the rich history and a
variety of wine styles. This trail is known for thematic
events where each winery on the trail features a different
Missouri wine and food pairing.
Whether you prefer sipping wine in an urban setting, an
1800s era chapel or a 1930s restored barn, the Kansas City
area has something for everyone. One of the unique
characteristics of this wine trail is that it is a loop! You
can pick it up at any spot, head in either direction, and
spend as much time as you want sampling wines, enjoying
beautiful vineyards and visiting points of interest along
the way.
The Lake of the Ozarks has been a place to hang out and be
seen for as long as can be remembered, but it’s known for
more than fast boats and summer fun. Slow down the pace and
sip on the area’s fine wine paired with gourmet cuisine.
Enjoy views of rolling Missouri foothills and breathtaking
panoramic views of the Lake while on the Lake of the Ozarks
Wine Trail.
Get your kicks in between Route 66 and the Meramec River on
the Meramec River Wine Trail! The wineries on this trail
belong to the Ozark Highlands AVA, which encompasses
1,280,000 acres in south-central Missouri. Explore local
shops and restaurants while enjoying the views at vineyards
and tasting locally grown Missouri wines!
The Mississippi River Hills Wine Trail features two family
owned and operated wineries, each with its own unique appeal
and diverse range of wines. Dry and semi-dry to sweet and
fruity, there’s something for everyone! The trail
passes through some of the state’s most attractive country
side. Rich in history and beauty, Mississippi River Hills
Wine Trail stretches from the center of Perry County
southward through northern Cape Girardeau County. Sample the
small-town charm in southeast Missouri along the Mississippi
River Hills Wine Trail.
The six wineries on the Missouri River Wine Trail have one
important thing in common – a fine selection of Missouri
wines. They also host special wine and food events, live
music and other activities throughout the spring, summer and
fall. In addition to great wine, the region offers a variety
of restaurants, lodging options and places to explore.
The Weinstrasse is located in the middle of the first area
ever designated as an official American Viticulture Area,
Augusta, Mo. Taste the wines and you’ll know why it came
first!
Sip wine in an 1800 church, a repurposed school house or
from a patio overlooking grape vines as far as the eye can
see. Whatever your speed or palate, Northwest Missouri
wineries will have something for you. The Northwest Missouri
Wine Trail boasts unique and welcoming wineries located in
the northwest area of the state.
The Ozark Mountain Wine Trail is situated in southwest
Missouri and winds through picturesque countryside. Wines on
this tour range from American and Hybrid grapes grown in
Missouri, Fruit wines from Missouri produce, Mead (honey
wine) from Missouri Beekeepers. Take a relaxing drive
through the countryside on the Ozark Mountain Wine Trail.
Set amid the rolling hills along the Mississippi River in
Southeast Missouri, the Route Du Vin Wine Trail beckons with
award-winning wines, scenic views and communities filled
with history. Enjoy restaurants, lodging, boutique shops and
art galleries, located primarily in Farmington and Ste.
Genevieve – the oldest European settlement in the state. The
trail features wineries, each with its own distinct
character.
In the northern part of the state, hugging the Iowa border,
is the Winestein Trail, consisting of two wineries 90 miles
apart, with Bethany as the center point. Backyard Vine
and Wine is to the west, in Maryville, home of Northwest
Missouri State University. It opened in 2008 and has seven
varieties on its five acres. Just under 100 miles to the
east in the Green Hills area of the state, in Trenton, is
Black Silo Winery. It’s open from April 20 to December 22
and hosts special events
For those not versed in the nine grape varietals grown in Missouri, here
they are
Catawba
Pink and rosé wines
Semi-sweet to sweet
North American hybrid red grape
5.6% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: 44-55°F
Chambourcin
Red wines
Dry to semi-dry
French-American hybrid red grape
11.5% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: 65°F to cellar temperature
Chardonel
White wines
Dry
Cross between seyval blanc and chardonnay grapes
7.2% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: 44-55°F
Concord
Red wines
Sweet
Originated in Concord, Mass.
6.6% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: Chilled to 45°F
Norton
Red wines
Dry
Official Missouri State grape, first found near Richmond,
Va., in 1835
17.7% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: 65°F to cellar temperature
Seyval Blanc
White wines
Dry to semi-dry
French-American hybrid grape
2.5% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: Between 38–45°F
Traminette
White wines
Dry to semi-sweet
American child of the German Gewürztraminer grape
5% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: Between 44–55°F
Vidal Blanc
White dessert or sparkling wine
Dry or semi-dry
French-American hybrid since the 1930s
5.9% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: 44-55°F
Vignoles
White wines
Dry to sweet
Versatile French-American hybrid
15.5% of grapes grown in Mo.
Serving Temperature: Between 44–55°F