Nestled in Historic Missouri Wine Country, you’ll find numerous award-winning wineries near St. Charles celebrated for their handcrafted wine and food. Soak up the magic and unbeatable surroundings with this Friday-to-Sunday itinerary designed for the perfect wine lovers getaway.
Friday
Following an afternoon arrival, it’s time to start exploring the wineries in St. Charles. Take in the lush surroundings of Defiance Ridge Vineyards through a relaxing tour of the scenic grounds after your drive. Be sure to try the seasonal artisan cuisine and sample Missouri and West Coast wines.
Cap off your first night with a visit to the nearby Chandler Hill Vineyards, where you can enjoy a delicious farm-to-table dinner. Toast to your weekend getaway atop the 4,500-square-foot terrace and browse the expansive wine menu for a fresh variety of Missouri and West Coast wines.
Then, settle into your bed & breakfast or guest house to get some much-needed shut-eye. Choose from one of the timeless and charming accommodations right in Historic Missouri Wine Country, like the luxurious Merry House Inn or Enchanted Owl Inn.
If you don’t have a designated driver in your party, the Augusta Wine Tour can be booked for safe, affordable, and private door-to-door transportation to St. Charles wineries.
Saturday
Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious breakfast at your B&B or guest house, it’s time to start a full day of exploring the culture, history, and charm of St. Charles, Missouri wineries.
Cozy up indoors with a glass of award-winning estate bottled wine at Sugar Creek Winery & Vineyards, or take in the scenic river valley view from its hilltop terrace above the Katy Trail. Try locally distilled craft vodka from Judgment Tree Distillery while there. This local winery also allows guests to bring their own picnic baskets to enjoy on its grounds.
Next, prepare to be amazed at the magnificent views of the Missouri River Valley at Montelle Winery, situated just atop Osage Ridge. This winery near St. Charles specializes in French hybrid wines that you can sample on the spacious deck while you enjoy live music throughout the season.
Just minutes away is Augusta Winery, which produces award-winning, handcrafted wine in small quantities. Enjoy a wine tasting (or pair it with salami, cheese, and crackers), unwind in the relaxing wine and beer garden, or catch local musicians performing live seasonally.
Step into history at the nearby Mount Pleasant Estates, Augusta’s oldest winery. Stroll the dramatic wine cellars dating back to the late 1800s as you learn how winemakers taste, test, and develop award-winning wine, then share a delicious lunch at The Appellation Café. Take a behind-the-scenes tour through the vineyards on the back of an ATV with Augusta Vineyards Tours to see where the wine comes from.
Enjoy a seasonal 4-course tasting menu at Root Food + Wine for dinner. This rustic restaurant sits in a 1905 home in Augusta and uses locally-sourced food to create delectable bites.
Consider staying at an Augusta B&B, like the historic Victorian H.S. Clay House Bed & Breakfast or Lindenhof Bed & Breakfast, for convenient and comfortable lodging options.
Sunday
It may be your final day in Historic Missouri Wine Country, but there’s still plenty to see at Noboleis Vineyards. Sample a wine flight on the expansive lawn, nosh on tasty appetizers, sing along to live music during the season, or take a yoga class on the 84-acre property.
End your wine lover’s getaway at the award-winning Balducci Vineyards. Try delicious Italian-inspired meals and sip fragrant wine to the tunes of live music. Time your visit right to catch one of the winery’s beautiful sunsets (and an unbeatable photo opportunity) before you start your trip back home.