Wine lovers in the Midwest need not travel to grape growing terrain in a Mediterranean climate to savor the tannins of this alcoholic treat. In the German settlement of Hermann, native Missouri grapes produce award-winning wine, while its wine trail makes for an enjoyable tasting that is a casual and fun outing for friends and family.
Hermann Missouri Wine Trail Weekends
Although many of Hermann’s wineries are open daily at specific times, visitors who sign up for a wine trail ticket will get a souvenir wine glass, a glass of wine paired with a sample of food, tasting opportunities, and a chance to enter a drawing to win a night’s stay at a B&B in Hermann with $30 gift certificates from each participating winery.
Hermann’s wineries lure visitors with seasonally themed wine tasting weekends throughout the year. Participating wineries include: Adam Puchta Winery, Bias Winery, Hermannhof Winery, OakGlenn Winery, Röbller Winery, and Stone Hill Winery.
Hermann’s Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend in February
On the weekend following Valentine’s Day in February, six of Hermann’s wineries host the chocolate wine trail. A unique chocolate dessert is paired with a glass of local wine, different at each location.
Hermann’s Norton Wine Trail Weekend in May
The first weekend in May at the Hermann wineries celebrates the Norton grape variety, native to Missouri and the official state grape. The Norton does well in Missouri’s climate and has a full-bodied dry taste, making a great red wine for cold nights and hearty dinners.
Hermann’s Berries and Barbecue Wine Trail Weekend in July
On the last full weekend in July, visitors to Hermann can enjoy wine paired with summer fruits and meat. Wineries generally offer recipes for the delicious snacks paired with the wines so that visitors can recreate the tasting experience at home. Summer is a good time to enjoy the shaded outdoor tables on site while listening to live music or simply pick-nicking.
Hermann’s Holiday Fare Wine Trail Weekend in November
On the third weekend of November, just before Thanksgiving, visitors can sample wines paired with traditional holiday treats like beef burgundy, stuffing, and mulled wine. November in central Missouri brings a slight chill to the air, but makes for perfect hiking weather, particularly around the picturesque vineyards.
Hermann’s Say Cheese Wine Trail in December
A new addition to the end of the year is the Say Cheese Wine Trail Weekend on the second weekend of December. Besides nibbling on cheese and sipping wine, this weekend presents the perfect opportunity for purchasing holiday gifts or stocking up on wine for holiday meals.
Visitors must buy tickets in advance online (with a PayPal account) or by phone: 1-800-932-8687.
Those interested in attending should purchase tickets early as they can sell out.
Good wine doesn’t always require far travel and good weekends don’t always have to be expensive.