Missouri has a rich history in wine-making. The story begins in 1837 when German settlers made their home in Hermann in 1890, and Italians settled in and around St. James. By the turn of the century, wine connoisseurs enjoyed 2 million gallons of Missouri wine a year until prohibition threw a fatal blow to the industry. Now more than 90 years after prohibition, the wine industry thrives in Missouri thanks to the grit and determination of growers, with more than 125 wineries throughout the state. About 40 of the wineries have joined together to form Missouri’s seven wine trails – making it easy to choose a route and set out on a wine adventure in the Show-Me State.
Tucked away in the Missouri River Valley, Hermann is a picturesque village where red brick buildings and rolling vineyards welcome you. The wineries in and around the historic German community account for about a third of the state’s total production. In 1837 a band of German settlers, inspired by the wild vines that covered the hillsides, planted grapes and began making wine marking a fascinating chapter of America’s winemaking history.
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, such as the Berries and BBQ, Wild Bacon and Say Cheese trails.
To learn more about the Hermann Wine Trail.
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.
Follow the Kansas City Wine Trail to explore urban and rural wineries in the Kansas City area.
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.
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.
Brush up on your wine vocabulary before you go with our 21 Wine Terms To Use When Visiting MO Wine Country article.
For more information on Missouri wine trails, visit Missouri Wines.