Take a Fall Escape to America's First Wine District

Have you considered taking a vacation this fall? How about an escape to a historic winery located in a magnificent, country setting? Then you might be ready to visit the Midwest. That's right! This fall, take your escape to the Midwest, the center of America.

When you think wine, you most likely think of exotic places like Germany, France, Italy, Australia, and Napa Valley, California. One place you may overlook, however, is the Midwest. In truth, the Midwest gets overlooked for a lot of things.

A Brief History Lesson about Missouri Wine

But, did you know that Missouri has recently been recognized as "America's First Wine District." It's true. In the 1830s, German immigrants settled in the Missouri River Valley, and with them came their love and talent for wine. Although Prohibition halted the success of these wineries, they have managed some amazing success in recent years.

Also treasured by Missouri wine connoisseurs are the different types of wine that are distinct to the Missouri area. While developed in Virginia by Dr. Norton, the Norton grape has found a home in the Midwest. It is here that Norton wine is produced with great flourish and pride from the rare Norton grape, which is rumored to be one of the few North American grapes.

The Perfect Escape

History lesson aside, though, the Midwest is a wonderful place to visit during the fall. The leaves are changing colors, the air is brisk, and the people are kind, which makes it the perfect place for a romantic fall getaway. Imagine, you could escape to the heart of America at a time when the grapes are being harvested and festivals are a plenty. So many people go to the coast for vacation, but Missouri offers just as much natural beauty as any other tourist attraction, if not more.

Take the Tour

The best part about Missouri's wine district is that you can tour a number of wineries all within miles of each other. Although they all are wonderful, two that you do not want to miss are the Augusta Winery in Augusta, MO, and the Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, MO. Both wineries have history, as well as award-winning wine.

Augusta and Hermann are just two of the towns that you can journey to on your escape. You can stay at one or travel to the other towns, which include: Berger, Defiance, Dutzow, Marthasville, New Haven, and Washington. Each of these fine towns boasts at least one winery.

The Missouri River Valley's wine trail can be reached by a number of modes of transportation, including bike, car, or train. The Katy Trail State Park, which has since been converted from its old railroad ways into a bike trail for guests and residents alike due to the rails to trails projects. There are also a number of hotels, motels, and beautiful bed and breakfast establishments. Whatever your pleasure, there is sure to be a perfect place for you to escape to this fall in the Missouri wine district.