New Book Highlights Hermann's Wine Region to the Confluence

Since its discovery the Missouri River has cast a spell over visitors. And not unlike the river's current itself, it has always pulled me along down river - enticing me to stop and experience the sites and towns along the way. 

Dan Burkardt was also enticed, which lead him to assemble and edit Missouri River Country: 100 Miles of Stories and Scenery From Hermann to the Confluence (published in partnership with Missouri Life Media - www.MagnificentMissouri.org), a collection of essays  and photos from 60 contributors.

“Whether you are interested in grapes and wine, architecture, history, conservation or art, there is a unique story or vignette in this book for you,” said Burkardt explaining the regions natural beauty and history. “ This 100-mile stretch of the Missouri River Valley is a terrific civic asset for St Louis - and what has happened there is remarkable.”

Counted among the most interesting, historic and flavorful components of the Missouri River Valley is Hermann’s Wine Trail (www.HermannWineTrail.com). Set along the valley’s western edge, the German village of Hermann, perched overlooking the Missouri River, is considered the epicenter of Missouri’s wine production, an industry that began over 150 years ago and still flourishes; leading the sate in production and award winning wines. Hermann’s Wine Trail embraces this heritage by promoting and educating visitors on he different wines available throughout its appellation (wine region).

Now is an excellent to explore the region during the Hermann Wine Trail’s Holiday Fare Wine Trail, held annually on the third weekend of November. The event celebrates good wine and food from seven wineries where visitors can sample a featured wine paired with a seasonable recipe. Among this year’s pairings are Adam Puchta’s Savory Pumpkin Soup paired with Triminette, Dierberg Star Lane’s Schwienebraten and Sautéed Spaetzle paired with Pinot Noir and Stone Hill’s Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars paired with Hermannsberger’s Mulled Wine. 

 To sample tickets are required and are available online or at the Hermann Welcome Center.  Hermann’s Wine Trail hosts sevßeral such tastings events throughout the year, including its Chocolate Wine Trail in February and the Just Say Cheese Trail during the second weekend of December. The Just Say Cheese trail is another stellar event that pairs Hermann’s signature wines and foods together with its popular Christmas markets.