Missouri’s Wine Growing Regions

In Missouri, there are five recognized American Viticultural Areas (AVA). In fact, Missouri is home to the country’s first AVA, according to the Missouri Wine website. These are regions established by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. They include:

• The Ozark Mountain AVA is by far the largest, with more than 3.5-million acres.
• The Ozarks Highland AVA is nearly 1.3-million acres and includes the region around St. James.
• The Loess Hills District AVA is the newest in northwestern Missouri.
• The Augusta Ava is the first established in US history. It beat out districts in California and Oregon for that honor.
• The Hermann AVA is 51-thousand acres and consists of Missouri’s most famous wine growing region.

The Grapes In Missouri

The Norton grape was named the official state grape of Missouri in 2003 for it’s impact on the current industry, but also the history behind the varietal. It has been grown in the Show Me State for over 200 years. Early growers found that it was perfectly suited for Missouri’s soil and climate and has thrived here for those reasons. Norton grapes are used to produce many of Missouri’s top rated wines in wineries across the state.

In addition to the Norton, these other varieties are grown in Missouri:

Also Read:
Why France and California owe
Missouri for their wine industries

The 10 Wine Trails in Missouri

List of Missouri’s Wineries