Missouri Wineries: America’s First Wine District

Missouri wineries have been in existence for nearly 150 years, though its successful wine industry was briefly disrupted by Prohibition. Currently, it is home to more than 50 wineries. In addition, the Missouri wineries bring more than 2.5 million visitors to the state every year. Included among the varietals grown in Missouri wineries the unique varieties of Chambourcin, Seyval, Cynthiana/Norton, and Vignoles. Other varietals grown in Missouri include St. Vincent, Vidal, Chardonel, Cayuga, Concord, and Catawba. The sunny hills of Missouri provide the long growing season that is perfect for these specialized grapes.

History of Missouri Wineries

German immigrants brought their customs of winemaking to the Missouri River Valley when the came to America from the Rhine River Valley in the 1830’s. Soon, the area became known as America’s First Wine District. In fact, the wine manufacturing and distribution center of the United States was located in St. Louis by the late 1800’s. Despite the downfall in Missouri wineries caused by Prohibition, the Missouri wineries currently found along Highway 94 have won numerous national and international wine competitions.

Much of the credit for the rebirth of Missouri wineries belongs to Jim and Betty held, who reopened the historic Stone Hill Winery in 1965. Prior to Prohibition, this winery was the United States’ second largest and the third largest in the world. Over the past 20 years, the Held’s have restored the reputation of the Stone Hill Winery, which has now become a family tradition. Stone Hill Winery is currently the largest of all Missouri wineries and is the third most awarded winery in the country. Today, the majority of Missouri wineries offer wine tasting and tours of the facilities, though arrangements may sometimes need to be made ahead of time.

Things to Do While Visiting Missouri Wineries

Missouri is home to a wide variety of fine restaurants, bakeries, and specialty shops that will be sure to draw the attention of those who love to shop. In addition, a wide variety of live entertainment can be enjoyed throughout the state and near to many of the Missouri wineries. The St. Louis Arch is a point of interest for those visiting Missouri wineries in the St. Louis area. Those who like a little adventure and enjoy taking in the natural scenery will gain great pleasure in hiking or biking along the KATY trail, which is former railroad right of way that was later converted to a scenic path through the Missouri valley.