What a Norton!

I had the privilege of tasting a 10-year old Norton this weekend. What a treat!  We were at a birthday party for a good friend and she set out several wines, among them a 2003 Norton from St. James Winery in St. James, Missouri. This wine had moved from the black cherries and blackberries to rich plum and luscious fig with a touch of smoke.  It was a wonderfully complex, flavorful wine! My compliments to St. James Winery.

The Norton is one of the few United States grape varieties that can produce a good dry red wine. It is difficult to make good wine out of this "wild vine", but a well-made Norton has great depth and character. I admit it is hard to wait for a Norton to come into its own, but a well-aged Norton is a real treat.  I have put away some of my favorite Nortons to age for 8-10 years, if only I can wait! Cheers!

Whoo knew? Owl Creek Seyval Blanc a Hoot!

Southern Illinois has some beautiful countryside, nice lakes, and several up-and-coming wineries. Near Cobden, Illinois, in the Shawnee Hills is Owl Creek Vineyards, the first vineyard to take root in that region. Just a few miles south of Giant City State Park, Owl Creek has a tasting room that is open to the public most days March through December with cafe that is open on the weekends. This is one of a dwindling number of wineries that allow picnic baskets.  But if you bring your own snacks, be  classy enough to purchase a bottle or two of their wine -- its the right thing to do.

So, the Wine Girls had a bottle of the 2010 Seyval Blanc this month.  Seyval Blanc is a white French hybrid that ripens relatively early and is fairly resistant to low temperatures, making it compatible with the variable Midwest climate.

I saw "semi-dry" on the label and asked for a small sampling since I prefer (mostly) dry reds.  I was pleasantly surprised! it had fruitiness (grapefruit, green apple, melon) but also a Sauvignon Blanc-like crispness. The sweeter wine drinkers were pleased with the fruitiness, and those of us who preferred dry wines enjoyed the crispness.  The fruit was apparent at first, but quickly faded to a crisp, drying sensation.  Just as the label promises, it appealed to both sweet and dry wine drinkers. Served chilled, it has great flexibility with appetizers.  I went for a second glass!  Way to go, Owl Creek!

Walker's Bluff Winery

Near Carterville, Illinois, there is something wonderful happening. Walker's Bluff already has a general store and deli. But it doesn't stop there.  Less than a mile down the road is a gate house and vineyards that beckon to visitors to come in for a glass of wine or a tasting or both.  Make use you leave time for a tour of the facilities; there's more than meets the eye.


Walker's Bluff has been built on a family farm that has a unique topographical advantage - it is flanked on three sides by the Big Muddy River. That will moderate temperatures making it possible to try some new grape varieties. Within sight of the Tasting Room and to the right is a playground and pavilion for outdoor family fun surrounded by trees and wood carvings. Just passed the Tasting Room is The Legends, an upscale restaurant with an impressive menu. You will also see an outdoor stage for summer concerts. Plans include cabins so visitors can immerse themselves in the experience and stay overnight.

The wine offerings include some very well-chosen wines from around the world. Although their own vineyards are growing, it will be a few years before Walker's Bluff has any estate grown wines available. And because of the unique geography, wine lovers will be able to sample varietals that are not the usual for most Midwest vineyards.

Walker's Bluff is about 2 hours from the St. Louis area and well worth the drive.  If you go there, tell Jake (manager and Sommelier) that you read about Walker's Bluff on my blog. Cheers!

Off-Dry Chardonel

From the Strussione Cave Winery near Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, comes a delightful non-vintage Chardonel. Chardonel is more hardy that its well known parent, the beloved Chardonnay grape. Offering tropical flavors of pineapple, citrus, and a hint of coconut, this off-dry white (chilled) is quite refreshing and versatile. Although it can be enjoyed alone, it also paired nicely with our hors d'oeuvres and a vegetable-pasta salad.

Cave Winery is a family affair.  And it is a labor of love for the Strussione family.  If you meet Marty, his passion for winemaking is very apparent -- and so is his knowledge of viticulture and vinification techniques. Congratulations for winning the Jefferson Cup for your 2009 Norton!  I cannot wait to try that 2010!

Check out their website at: www.cavevineyard.com

Cuvee Prestige

Last night was Wine Night.  Each member brings a food item and a bottle of wine. My wine contribution to our group was the Augusta Winery Cuvee Prestige, which received a Bronze medal at the 2011 Missouri Wine Competition. A sip of this dry red wine offered an explosion of raspberry mingling with a softer blackberry flavor evolving into a dry, spicy finish. I heard many say, "Oh!"

Cuvee Prestige catches a person off-guard with its great flavors and complexity.  Savor its impressively long finish and, although it has noticeable acidity, its great balanced. I kept going back for yet another taste. The bottle was empty too soon!

When I find myself in a discussion about the wineries in and around Augusta, Missouri, I frequently hear myself  affirming that Augusta Winery has consistently produced quality wines over the years.

I went to Augusta Winery's website (www.augustawinery.com) this morning and found this statement:


At Augusta Winery the managers and tasting staff are constantly trained on not only the wines we produce, but the wines of the world.  It is through this training that they are able to educate and excite our customers about the merits of our wines and how to enjoy them to their fullest...We take pride in our wines, which are vinted in small quantities so that special care may be given to each lot.

That quote tells us a great deal about Tony Kooyumjian's passion for producing good wines and why he has such a great team at Augusta Winery. This, combined with the knowledge of viticulture and winemaking techniques Tony brings to Augusta, ensures that his customers will always have a selection of interesting wines like the Cuvee Prestige to enjoy.  


Going to the Augusta area is a pleasant drive through the meandering Missouri countryside. If you haven't been to Augusta (and specifically to Augusta Winery) lately, treat yourself with a mini-vacation to the U. S.'s first AVA. You meet the nicest people over a glass of wine. Cheers!

Chandler Hill Vineyards

On a nice fall day, several of us visited Chandler Hill's tasting room.  Chandler Hill Winery is in Defiance, Missouri, near Daniel Boone's Home and Heritage Center owned and operated by Lindenwood University. They are just a couple miles off Highway 94 just west of St. Louis.

We had lunch, enjoyed the live music and, of course, tasted the wines. I had the opportunity to meet Tom Murphy, Winemaker and Vineyard Manager, who was helping out at the tasting bar that Saturday. I had a nice conversation with Tom, a friendly and humble man, who has put together some great wines.  He has created a nicely balanced blend of Missouri reds named King Buck. The Chandler Hill Norton has a great array of fruit flavors (blackberry, cherry, etc.) and spice (cinnamon and nutmeg).  It is not easy to successfully corral the goodness of the Norton grape in a quality dry red wine. Chandler Hill has produced a very good expression of the Norton grape in their Savage Norton 2008. But should you not be in the mood for sampling Midwest wines, Chandler Hill also offers West Coast wines representing some of the best AVAs in Oregon, Washington, and California.

Everything was top-notch at Chandler Hill (see www.chandlerhillvineyards.com).  Whether you are just interested in tasting, or also looking for a tasty lunch and good music, Chandler Hill has an impressive venue with a great view and plenty of seating.

Wine & Ghosts?

Do you believe in Ghosts? This former hotel and Odd Fellows Hall is now Belvoir Winery in Liberty, MO (Just north of Kansas City). The owners have renovated the main floor, using some impressive antique pieces and paintings.  The tasting room boasts a beautiful wooden bar, stained-glass lamps, and assorted wall decorations. Shall I say, "tastefully" done? ;-)

Entering an impressive foyer, guests walk up the steps into the Tasting Room. I could feel the history (spirits?) of this imposing old building.  What a unique winery! There is an abandoned orphanage on the property -- I'm guessing that's a hot spot for ghosts. There is also a mini-museum in the main building where you will meet a skeleton named George.

We were greeted by Danny Wood, writer for the Midwest Wine Press, who mans the tasting bar.  We soon were joined by the winemaker, John, as we sampled his wines. Belvoir currently offers 6 wines: Chardonel, Plumeria (a blend of Seyval, Traminaette, and Vignoles grapes), Sorelle Dolci (a smooth sweet blend of Symphony and Cayuga grapes), Norton, Casanova Medium bodied red blend of Chambourcin, Syrah, and St. Vincent grapes), and Lucky Pierre (Concord, St. Vincent, and Chambourcin blend).

The wines are well made -- Very flavorful and balanced.  I broke my usual pattern and bought the two white blends, I was so impressed with their uniqueness and floral nose as well as the crisp fruitiness.  John, a retired doctor, has a definite talent for blending.

For those of you that have an interest in haunted buildings, Belvoir has periodic late-night Paranormal Investigations from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. -- if you last that long! Just keep that wine glass full -- so you can have spirits with the Spirits!

Next time you get to Kansas City, take a couple hours and travel up to Liberty, Missouri, to Belvoir.

Missouri Passport Reward - Food and Wine Pairing

We drove many miles for over a year to earn the Food and Wine pairing for 10 that we experienced at Montelle Winery yesterday. We were unsure of what to expect, but the manager and staff at Montelle were outstanding! From the moment we walked through the door, we felt welcomed.

Montelle used the Stone House for our event, with table set and candles lit when we entered.  The staff was extremely attentive and well-paced throughout our visit. The food was great and well-paired with the Montelle wines. The entire experience exceeded expectations for all present. 

Compliments to everyone, including the Missouri Wine and Grape Board, for this wonderful opportunity! The Passport program has encouraged us to visit wineries all over the State. The rewards have all been high quality throughout. Thank you, all!

The trees were lovely in southern Missouri last weekend.  We were on a quest to visit a few State of Missouri wineries we had not explored. during the 12-hour trek, we found some delightfully hospitable tasting rooms. 

We met Jim and Lea Anne Casteel at Hunter Valley Winery.  Lovely setting geographically; warm tasting room area, nice lunch offerings.  Very friendly place and the owners take their wine-making seriously.

We also had a nice experience at Rothbrick winery that includes cabins and a riding stable. The gentleman behind the tasting bar knew wines and wine-making very well.  It was a great conversation and enjoyed tasting the wines. Wish I had had time to ride one of the horses -- best to ride before you taste, however!

Another fun stop was River Ridge Winery near Commerce, MO. Jerry Smith greeted us in the parking lot, showed us the processing area, and led us to the tasting room. [He also has a few jokes to share.] Guests will find a small restaurant and grill on the grounds if they lose track of the time and end up there at mealtime. Live music is provided on occasion as well.  His wife Joannie runs a Christmas shop nearby.  Thanks for the hospitality to Jerry and his staff!

So we made several new friends, had a wonderful day, and collected even more Missouri winery stamps in our passports as we are closing in on 60 stamps for the romantic dinner for two.

Congratulations, Montelle Winery!

The October 15, 2012, edition of Wine Spectator contains a feature article by Kim Marcus that lists 200 American value wines under $20. There are no wines included below 85 points. Some wine enthusiasts are quick to insist that wines that achieve 85 points are very good wines and, in fact, personal opinion gets involved with scores above that. You can pretty much be assured that if you have purchased a wine rated 85 or more, you have a very nice wine.

The article "Great American Values" (p. 81) is divided first by reds or whites, and then rolls out by state and by score. After California, Oregon, and Washington is the category "Other U. S." In that section, we read "Montelle  Vignoles Missouri Dry 2010" with 86 points. A Brief mention that speaks volumes! What an honor to be listed among great wines from California, Washington, Oregon, and New York! Congratulations to Tony Kooyumjian, family, and staff! Thanks for putting Missouri in the national spotlight!

I am on my way with several friends to enjoy Montelle winery in a couple weeks. (Although, I didn't need Wine Spectator to tell me Tony and his crew make great wines.) The Missouri leaves are turning a myriad of fall colors and Montelle has one of the best views of the Augusta Valley from that hilltop location. This is a great time to head just west of St. Louis to the Augusta AVA to enjoy the fall colors and some top quality midwestern wines! Way to Go, Tony!

It's Port Wine Weather!

Ah, the cool, crisp air of Fall! Thoughts turn to warm fires and a great glass of Port, Sherry, or Madeira dessert wine. I have been waiting for the leaves to turn and the temperatures to drop so I can enjoy some of those great, hearty wines in my collection.  Winter doesn't seem so cruel when a person can cuddle up to a crackling fire with a nice glass of quality port.

Are you ready for those tastes of fall? Within an hour of St. Louis, MO, we have access to several wineries that make very nice port wines. Check out the port wines at some of my favorite stops: Adam Puchta Winery (Hermann), Augusta Winery (Augusta), Chaumette Winery (Ste. Gen), and Sugar Creek Winery (Defiance).  Also, Crown Valley Winery actually boasts its own Port House near Hannibal, MO. So, get away for a few hours, sip a good port or two, and welcome Fall!

Which ever way you go, take time to enjoy the fall colors -- and tell them The Wine Girl sent you! Cheers!

Let's Rally, Midwest Wine Lovers!

In my Sommelier training in California last month, we covered the globe discussing wines from countries that exist between the 30th and 50th latitude, both north and south of the equator. I tasted wines from France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Austria, Portugal,and South Africa.  I also tasted wines from Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, and Australia. When it came to the United States, however, the wines we tasted came from the more recognized states like Washington, Oregon, California, and New York.  Others States including Missouri and Virginia got a passing mention. Granted, we were short of time by then, and our instructors were aware that U. S. wines are readily accessible to those of us who live in this wonderful country.

Being from the Midwest, I find this unfortunate since Missouri is the home of the first AVA officially recognized in this country. The Augusta AVA was identified a full 9 months before Napa Valley. I made some noise about our wines and wine industry, but time did not permit much discussion as we were absorbing book after book of information for our exam.

All of this just renews my passion to discover exceptional Midwestern grown and produced wines. I want a ready list of exceptional Midwest wines in hand; wines that will stand along side of the California Cabernets, the Oregon Pinot Noirs, and the Washington Rieslings. If you are passionate about a stand-out wine from Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, etc., please let me know!

Norton Wine featured in Article

Dave McIntyre wrote an article published on August 27th in the food section of the Washington Post. He poses the question, "Have you tried a Norton lately?"  The article entitled "Less Acidity, More Interest in Nortons" touches on the history of the Norton grape and its evolution in America.  He references Todd Kliman, author of The Wild Vine, a book that recounts the history of Norton grape in America, an interesting read. I have met the Todd.

Dave recently found himself on a panel of judges at the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition that awarded gold medal scores to two Nortons (One was from Frogtown Cellars in Georgia, the other from Cooper Vineyards in Louisa, Va.). Norton recognition seems to be happening more and more as the American public discovers the rich complexity of a well-produced Norton wine. We need to invite Dave McIntyre to the Midwest to so he can continue his quest for a good Norton!

A Certified Sommelier Writes

I have just returned from taking the level 1 Immersion Course for Sommelier Certification offered at Wente Vineyards in California by the U. S. Sommelier Association. What an experience! After weeks of study, previewing course materials, and reading a wonderful wine course by Kevin Zraly, I went to California for the course feeling pretty well prepared for the challenge.

In 5 1/2 days, however, I learned an amazing amount of additional information and tasted an incredible array of wines from all over the world. It's often said, "I now know enough to know how much I have yet to learn." It's true! The rich history of wine has so many dimensions -- from viticulture to vinification to terroir to aging -- that it is wonderfully exhausting to delve into the great wines of the world. I tasted wines from France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and, of course, the United States -- many varietals, various processings, difference ages. Fascinating! I have learned so much! And met others who are passionate about wine. Life is too short to drink bad wine.

I am proud to say I passed the exam -- both written and blind tasting -- and now begin a new era in my blogging career -- as a Certified Sommelier. I hope to write even more valuable entries going forward -- And, yes, I still have a passion for our Midwest Wines!

Augusta Winery Does it Again!

It's no secret to my more frequent readers that I enjoy the wines produced by Augusta Winery. I continue to find that Tony Kooyumjian is exceptional at maintaining consistent quality in his wines from one year to the next. I had the pleasure of drinking the 2009 Norton Reserva del Patron which I purchase some months ago in Augusta, MO. This was perhaps the best Norton I have had in recent times!

From a limited number of hand-picked grapes to carefully chosen barrels selected by the winemaker, this Norton is dry, intense, flavorful, but not over bearing or not too oaked. The Augusta Winery website says it best:

This wine is the true expression of the Norton grape, with powerful intensity of fruit and big, silky tannins. The color is dark, with briar, plum, and currant flavors riding along a racy, mineral streak that culminates with lovely chocolate and boysenberry notes on the finish. This wine can be enjoyed immediately or cellared for up to twenty years.

I enjoyed it on the 4th of July with a Bison Ribeye and it was amazing! Thanks, Tony!

Missouri Wine Passport Goal

I made it to 40 stamps in my Missouri Wine Passport!  That means I am entitled to a food and wine pairing for 10. I am excited to achieve this.  It took time and commitment -- and the support of a great group of wine-loving women! I hope you take advantage of this opportunity too.

Fahrmeier Winery - Wellington, MO

Another 10 minutes down the gravel lane from LaBella Winery [see previous entry] through some beautiful countryside is the family owned and operated Fahrmeier Winery.  Brandon Fahrmeier tells me the winery has been open for 4 years, but he has been making wine for 15 years.  His experience is evident particularly in two of his white wines : an impressive dry Moscato and a locally popular Vidal Blanc. I know the Wine Girls will enjoy this one!

The tasting room was fashioned with a nice tasting bar, included table seating, and sported an impressive picture window that showcased their vineyard outside.There was a little shop area as well.  Brandon enjoys telling about his wines as he pours his latest vintages.  It was a worthwhile stop on my way to KC.  I wish I had had more time to stay and enjoy the winery. It took no more than 15 minutes to get back to the Interstate [and I didn't have to return via the gravel road!].

LaBella Vineyards

A recent road trip to Kansas City, Missouri, gave me the occasion to stop by a few western Missouri wineries I had never visited.Once I left the concrete serpent that is Interstate 70 and drove north of Odessa, Missouri, the pace slowed down through winding country roads. Ultimately, I meandered down a gravel lane to LaBella Winery. Bought a couple years ago, the fledging winery is adding a wine or two each year to its offerings. I was greeted by one of the owners, an friendly employee, and Bella, the winery dog.  I tasted the semi-sweet white wine they currently produce.  I found it delightfully crisp, very fruit flavorful, and not overly sweet. This wine, interestingly named Sunday Drive, was sipped at the tasting bar by yours truly on a sunny, pleasant Sunday afternoon. Although LaBella offers a sweet red, I did not take the time to taste it. [I was driving and was pacing myself as I had planned more stops before arriving safely in Kansas City.]

The tasting room is an attractive building situated on a small lake with both indoor and outdoor seating. Although they are just beginning, LaBella Vineyards shows great promise for the future.  Even now, it was worth the 5-mile trek off the highway to experience this winery near Wellington, MO.

Shimmery White Struts it Stuff!

Some great things are happening at Illinois River Winery located in the Illinois River Valley near Utica in north central Illinois.  Their wines have very unique labels designed by artists, many participating in the Artist is residency program they offer.

We had the opportunity to try their Riesling, a semi-sweet white wine in the German wine style.   Illinois River Winery calls it, “our most versatile white for food paring.”  It was crisp with a complexity of fruit flavors, yet subtle in its sweetness. We found it quite yummy and refreshing to experience.  At around $16.00 a bottle, it is a good buy for a nice Midwest Riesling.

Chaumette Winery - Quality Place (Wine Trip - part 3)

Chaumette Winery (www.chaumette.com) is graced with a great view, a classy tasting room, and highly rated restaurant. Behind the bar is a creative man named Dick.  He knows his wines and gives his guests a great wine-tasting experience. He may give the customer an extra taste now and then and an exceptional bit of wine history, but his flare sells lots of wine for Chaumette.We love you, Dick!

Hank Johnson, the owner, tells me that he wants Chaumette to be a destination, not just a passing visit. With lodging and a spa to offer along with a rack of quality reds and whites, he is creating just that. If you get to Ste. Gen, make sure you take time to investigate the fine wines at Chaumette.  Chances are you will stay longer than you plan, but it is well worth lingering at this wonderful winery.

Don't leave without tasting the Port!