The wineries on The Missouri River Wine Trail have one thing in common; a fine selection of Missouri wines. Four of the seven locations have an on-site restaurant offering a menu beyond snacks and sandwiches. The trail members schedule special wine and food events through spring, summer and fall. Note: no outside beverages (wine, beer, liquor, sodas) are allowed at a Missouri winery; leave beverages in your car.
If you stayed the night at Cliff Manor Bed and Breakfast Inn, a scrumptious breakfast awaits. From several porches, this bluff top Inn gives you panoramic views of the Missouri River; two suites include a private porch and a Jacuzzi brand tub. Supper is available by reservation.
Located four blocks west of the Capitol, at 722 Cliff St.; Jefferson City; 573-635-4208.
Visit the Missouri State Capitol for fascinating insights into the history and culture of Missouri. The building, completed in 1918, is literally a museum of art, remarkable not only for its quality and abundance, but also for its faithful reflection of the themes, events and people of Missouri. Guided tours are available. The grounds contain fountains and various statues and monuments.
201 W. Capitol Ave.; 573-751-2854.
The tasting room for the Westphalia Vineyards is inside the Westphalia Inn Restaurant. The Norton Room offers a relaxing atmosphere where patrons are invited to unwind and sample a variety of WV private label wines. The Norton Room and the restaurant are open Friday and Saturday evening, and Sunday afternoon and early evening. Westphalia is 15 miles southeast of Jefferson City, on Route 63.
106 E. Main St., Westphalia; 573-455-2000.
At Summit Lake Winery-Holts Summit, patrons relax on the extensive, terraced, bluff top patio and take in the sweeping view, as well as indoors at the bar and around the fireplace. Live music is offered. The restaurant serves a creative bistro menu, with daily specials. Special “Murder Mystery Dinners” are scheduled through the fall and winter months.
Located two miles north of Jefferson City, off Route 54, at 1707 S. Summit Drive; 573-896-9966.
Summit Lake Winery-Hartsburg
This winery offers indoor seating and an open-air deck, one block from the Katy Trail. They serve sandwiches, wraps and pitas, plus snacks and desserts. Open Thursday thru Sunday; hours are subject to the weather.
Located 18 miles northwest of Jefferson City, off Route 54 on Route A, at 15 E. Main St., Hartsburg; 573-657-0467.
In Rocheport, this winery is known for its spectacular bluff top view of the Missouri River and amazing sunsets. The terraced wine garden, known as the A-Frame, is a favorite for picnickers; bring your own or buy one there. It is open seasonally, noon-sunset, weather permitting.
Located one mile off I-70 on Route BB (exit 115), 15 miles west of Columbia. 12847 West Route BB, Rocheport; 800-690-1830.
Cooper's Oak Winery-Higbee is on the premises of A&K Cooperage, manufacturer of fine American oak barrels. A unique feature is the old Higbee jail which is built into the wine cellar. Closed Sundays.
Located 30 miles north of Columbia off Route 63 on Route B. 96-A West Jones St., Higbee; 660-456-7507.
Visit Cooper's Oak Winery-Boonville for a selection of wines, and sandwiches. Occasional entertainment and live music are scheduled. Closed Tuesdays.
327 Main St., Boonville; 660-882-0111.
Les Bourgeois Vineyards Blufftop Bistro serves extraordinary cuisine, lunch and supper, along with their estate bottled wines. The Bistro is perched at the edge of the cliff, adjacent to the A-Frame wine garden. The panorama is breathtaking, no matter what the season. This restaurant offers a full gourmet menu of provincial fare for lunch and supper, including house-smoked meats, fresh seafood, hearty pasta dishes and daily specials. Open year-round; closed Mondays.
Located15 miles west of Columbia; one mile north of I-70 on Route BB (exit 115) at 12847 West Route BB, Rocheport; 800-690-1830.
The Yates House Bed and Breakfast, in Rocheport, offers six guestrooms in two adjacent buildings. Breakfast is served in the Garden House Sun Room, where you are treated with delightful dishes prepared with local produce, eggs, meat, cheese, and herbs. Gourmet weekend packages include a cooking school (reserve well in advance).
Located two miles north of I-70 on Route BB (exit 115) at 305 Second St., Rocheport; 573-698-2129.