In 1980, the region encompassing Augusta, Missouri, became the first federally designated American Viticulture Area (AVA) in the United States, earning the title eight months before Napa Valley. AVAs feature specific geographic features and boundaries uniquely suited to grape-growing; in the Augusta appellation, the soil, climate and proximity to the Missouri River create an ideal environment for quality grapevines. Some of the oldest and most acclaimed wineries in the state fall within the AVA, making it ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Editor's Note: The original version of this story incorrectly stated that parts of Washington, Dutzow and Defiance are included in the Augusta American Viticulture Area (AVA) and that Holy Grail Winery is located within the AVA. We apologize for the unfortunate errors, which were made during the in-house editing process.
Augusta Winery
Winemaker Tony Kooyumjian discovered his appreciation for wine while traveling the world during a career in aviation, leading him to open Augusta Winery in the heart of town. The wine list includes dry, sweet and fruit wines, as well as a 5-year Tawny Port. The tasting room features an expansive gift shop with great finds for wine-lovers. On weekends, guests can enjoy pizzas, locally made cheese and sausage or bring a picnic basket and relax on the patio. (Photo courtesy of Augusta Winery)
Augusta Winery, 5601 High St., Augusta, Missouri, 636.228.4301, augustawinery.com
★ RANDAL OAKS, OWNER, KATE'S COFFEE HOUSE: “Tony Kooyumjian, the owner of Augusta and Montelle wineries, is a pioneer of the resurgence of the wine industry in Missouri, and he’s raising the bar for quality Missouri wine. Each [winery in Augusta] has distinctive, quality wines. I tell people, ‘When you’re tired of wine-ing, come to Kate's Coffee.’ They do, but they’re not tired of the wine!”
Balducci Vineyards
Balducci Vineyards boasts a wine for every palate and a food menu designed to complement it. Winemaker Nic Balducci produces both sweet and dry wines from several grape varietals, including Vignoles and Norton. Food is focused on Italian-inspired dishes such as the portobello mushroom ravioli appetizer or chicken Parmesan sandwich with housemade red sauce. Bocce ball courts offer a fun way to enjoy scenic views of the property. (Photo courtesy of Balducci Vineyards)
Balducci Vineyards, 6601 S. Highway 94, Augusta, Missouri, 636.482.8466, balduccivineyards.com
Mount Pleasant Estates
Established in 1859, Mount Pleasant is the oldest winery in the Augusta appellation, and the original cellars are still used to age its wine today. If you’re looking for more than a wine tasting, try the cellar tours, wine classes or winemaker dinners. The wine list includes everything from sparkling, sweet, dry and fortified wines; lunch is available Thursday through Monday at the Appellation Café, open April through October. (Photo by Jonathan Gayman)
Mount Pleasant Winery, 5634 High St., Augusta, Missouri, 636.482.9463, mountpleasant.com
Montelle Winery
Montelle Winery – also owned by Tony Kooyumjian – offers everything from sunset dinners to live music on its patio overlooking the Missouri River valley. Sample a selection of wine or upgrade to a premium tasting of limited-production wines, like the Norton Reserve, made with the best barrels of the vintage. The on-site Klondike Café serves sandwiches, salads, breads and pretzels; for fancier occasions, dine on a rib eye steak or scallops in the new Parliament Room. (Photo courtesy of Montelle Winery)
Montelle Winery, 201 Montelle Drive, Augusta, Missouri, 888.595.9463, montelle.com
Noboleis Vineyards
Noboleis Vineyards was awarded the prestigious Jefferson Cup in 2017 at the Missouri Wine Competition for the best Norton in Missouri. Other dry wines produced here include Baril de Blanc, a barrel-fermented white, as well as a refreshing dry rosé; sweeter options like Traminette, Moscato and Autumn Blush are also available. Once you’ve found your favorite, dig into a housemade pizza or bring a picnic and enjoy the lovely outdoor pavilion overlooking the vineyards. (Photo courtesy of Noboleis Vineyards)
Noboleis Vineyards, 100 Hemsath Road, Augusta, Missouri, 636.482.4500, noboleisvineyards.com
Hilary Hedges
Hilary Hedges is a contributing writer for Feast.