Augusta Winery: A Guide to Missouri's Premier Wine Destination

Augusta Winery, founded in 1988, is a family-owned winery located in the charming town of Augusta, MO. It is situated where the Missouri River Valley meets the Ozark Mountains, making it a picturesque destination for wine lovers. Augusta Winery is the first winery in the United States to be recognized as a viticultural area, with its unique soil, climate, and quality of wines from grapes grown in vineyards that date back to the 1800s.

The winery produces award-winning wines from grapes grown in the first U.S. Wine District, or Viticultural Area #1. Augusta Winery offers a scenic outdoor wine terrace, a gift shop, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of tours, tastings, and events throughout the year. The winery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, and seasonal hours are available on their website.

Augusta Winery is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates great wine and breathtaking scenery. The winery's rich history, commitment to quality, and unique location make it a standout among Missouri's many wineries. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun day trip, Augusta Winery is sure to impress.

History and Heritage

Augusta Appellation

Augusta Winery is situated in the heart of the Augusta Appellation, which is the first designated American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States. The Augusta Appellation is known for its unique soil composition, which is ideal for grape growing. The area is characterized by rolling hills, fertile soil, and a mild climate, which create perfect conditions for growing high-quality grapes.

Historical Significance

Augusta Winery has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. The winery was established in 1859 and is the oldest winery in Augusta. The winery was founded by German immigrants who recognized the potential of the area for grape growing. The winery has been a part of the Augusta community for over 160 years and has played an important role in preserving the town's history and heritage.

The Augusta Heritage Foundation was formed about six years ago by the townspeople of Augusta, with the goal of preserving the history and heritage of the area. Two landmarks in the town are fairly sacred, The Harmonie Verein and Mount Pleasant Winery. The foundation has been instrumental in preserving these landmarks and ensuring that they remain an important part of the town's history.

Tony Kooyumjian's Vision

Tony Kooyumjian, the owner of Augusta Winery, has been instrumental in promoting the Augusta Appellation and preserving the area's history and heritage. Kooyumjian is a third-generation winemaker and has been involved in the wine industry for over 30 years. He has a deep appreciation for the history and heritage of the Augusta Appellation and has worked tirelessly to promote the area and its unique soil composition.

Kooyumjian's vision for Augusta Winery is to create high-quality wines that reflect the unique character of the Augusta Appellation. He believes that the key to creating great wines is to start with high-quality grapes. To this end, he has worked closely with local grape growers to ensure that the winery has access to the best grapes in the area. Kooyumjian's commitment to quality and his deep appreciation for the history and heritage of the Augusta Appellation have made Augusta Winery one of the premier wineries in the region.

Viticulture

Augusta Winery's vineyards are located in the first designated American Viticultural Area (AVA) in the United States. The unique soil and climate of the Augusta AVA provide ideal growing conditions for a variety of grapes.

Unique Soil and Climate

The soil in the Augusta AVA is rich in limestone, which provides excellent drainage and imparts a distinctive mineral character to the grapes. The climate is also ideal for grape growing, with warm days and cool nights that allow the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors.

Grapes Grown

Augusta Winery grows a variety of grapes, including Chambourcin, Norton, Vignoles, and Seyval Blanc. Each grape variety has its own unique characteristics that contribute to the complexity of the wines produced at Augusta Winery.

Vineyard Practices

Augusta Winery uses sustainable viticultural practices to ensure the health and longevity of the vineyards. This includes integrated pest management, cover cropping, and minimal use of herbicides and pesticides. The vineyards are also hand-harvested to ensure that only the highest quality grapes are used in the winemaking process.

Overall, Augusta Winery's commitment to sustainable viticulture and the unique soil and climate of the Augusta AVA combine to produce exceptional wines that reflect the terroir of the region.

Wine Selection

Augusta Winery boasts an impressive selection of wines that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the highlights of their wine selection:

Award-Winning Wines

Augusta Winery has been recognized for producing some of the best wines in America. Their wines have won numerous awards in international competitions, including the prestigious Men's Journal and Vacation Ideas Magazine. Some of the award-winning wines that visitors can taste include:

• Norton: A full-bodied red wine that is a local favorite.
• Chardonel: A dry white wine that has a crisp and refreshing taste.
• Vignoles: A semi-sweet white wine that has a fruity flavor.
• Seyval Blanc: A dry white wine that has a citrusy taste.

Wine Tasting Experience

Visitors to Augusta Winery can enjoy a wine tasting experience that allows them to sample different wines and learn about the winemaking process. The winery has a tasting room that is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm. The tasting fee is $5 per person, which includes a souvenir glass. Visitors can taste up to six wines of their choice, and additional tastings are available for a fee.

Wine Club and Memberships

Augusta Winery offers a wine club membership that provides members with exclusive access to limited-edition wines, discounts on purchases, and invitations to special events. Members can choose from different membership levels, depending on their preferences and budget. Some of the benefits of the wine club membership include:

• Quarterly wine shipments
• Discounts on wine purchases
• Complimentary tastings
• Invitations to members-only events

In conclusion, Augusta Winery has a diverse selection of wines that cater to different tastes and preferences. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting experience and learn about the winemaking process. Wine enthusiasts can also join the wine club and enjoy exclusive benefits and access to limited-edition wines.

Visiting Augusta Winery

If you're planning to visit Augusta Winery, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your experience. Here are some details on the tasting room, hours of operation, amenities and entertainment, and location and contact information.

Tasting Room

The Augusta Winery tasting room offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where you can try a variety of award-winning wines. The staff is knowledgeable and can guide you through the different options available. The winery also offers tours of the vineyards, production, and cellars, which can be booked in advance.

Hours of Operation

Augusta Winery is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm. During the summer and fall, the winery is open seven days a week, with extended hours on Saturdays until 9pm. It's always a good idea to check the winery's website for the most up-to-date information on seasonal hours.

Amenities and Entertainment

In addition to the tasting room, Augusta Winery offers an outdoor wine terrace where you can enjoy your wine with a view. There is also a grapevine-covered arbor where you can relax and enjoy snacks. On weekends, the winery hosts live entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Location and Contact

Augusta Winery is located at 5601 High Street, Augusta, MO 63332. You can reach them at (636) 228-4301. The winery is situated in the heart of Augusta, which is America's first wine region. It's a beautiful area to explore, with many other wineries and attractions nearby.

In conclusion, Augusta Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. With its welcoming atmosphere, award-winning wines, and beautiful location, it's the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Community and Events

Augusta Winery is not just a place to taste and buy wine. It is also a hub for community events and activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy live music, seasonal activities, and local partnerships while sipping on their favorite Augusta Winery wine.

Live Music and Entertainment

From April to October, Augusta Winery offers free live weekend entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while listening to local musicians perform on the outdoor patio. The winery also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the Fall Wine Festival, which features live music, food vendors, and local artisans.

Local Partnerships

Augusta Winery is proud to partner with local businesses and organizations to promote the Augusta community. The winery collaborates with the Augusta Chamber of Commerce to promote local events and businesses. They also partner with local restaurants to offer wine pairings and special promotions.

Seasonal Activities

In addition to live music and local partnerships, Augusta Winery offers seasonal activities throughout the year. During the fall, visitors can take a hayride through the vineyard and enjoy a glass of wine around a bonfire. In the winter, the winery hosts a holiday market featuring local artisans and vendors.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend activity or a fun night out, Augusta Winery has something for everyone. With a focus on community and entertainment, visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while supporting local businesses and organizations.

Amenities and Services

Gift Shop

Augusta Winery offers a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, wine accessories, and local products. The shop features a variety of items including wine glasses, corkscrews, and wine stoppers. Visitors can also find unique gifts such as handmade jewelry, pottery, and artwork. The gift shop is open during regular business hours and is a great place to find a special memento of your visit.

Picnic Options

Augusta Winery provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a picnic on their scenic grounds. Visitors can bring their own food and drinks or purchase a pre-made picnic basket from the winery. The picnic baskets include a selection of meats, cheeses, crackers, and fruit. Visitors can also purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy with their meal. The winery provides picnic tables and chairs for visitors to use during their visit.

Bike Rentals

Augusta Winery offers bike rentals for visitors who want to explore the scenic countryside. The winery is located near the Katy Trail, a 240-mile trail that runs through Missouri. Visitors can rent a bike from the winery and ride along the trail, taking in the beautiful scenery and stopping at local attractions along the way. The winery provides helmets and maps to help visitors plan their route.

Overall, Augusta Winery offers a variety of amenities and services to enhance visitors' experience. Whether you're looking for a unique gift, a relaxing picnic, or an outdoor adventure, Augusta Winery has something for everyone.

Plan Your Visit

Accommodations

Augusta Winery is located in the heart of Augusta, Missouri, a charming town in the Missouri River Valley known for its scenic beauty and rich history. Visitors to Augusta can choose from a variety of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, inns, and hotels. Some popular options include the Inn at Augusta, the Red Brick Inn, and the Augusta Wine Country Inn.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to Augusta Winery, there are many other attractions in the area that visitors can enjoy. High Street is a popular destination for shopping and dining, with a variety of shops and restaurants to choose from. The Classic General Store is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique gifts and souvenirs, while Shop Classic Styles offers a great selection of clothing and accessories.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Missouri River Valley offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The nearby Katy Trail is a popular destination for cyclists, while the Fountain Bluff Sports Complex is a great place to play a game of baseball or soccer.

Visitor Tips

Visitors to Augusta Winery should keep in mind a few tips to make their visit as enjoyable as possible. First, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially during peak season. Second, visitors should dress appropriately for the weather, as the winery offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Finally, visitors should be prepared to sample some of the best wines in the U.S. wine district.

Overall, a visit to Augusta Winery is a must for anyone looking to experience the best of Missouri wine country. With its beautiful setting, friendly staff, and award-winning wines, Augusta Winery is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the area.