History of Missouri Wine  Missouri was known as wine country prior to Prohibition  Our state wine has both German and Italian influences  We have an amazing American Story – the convergence of many cultures, the survival of vineyards during Prohibition, support of the war efforts with high quality grapes, and the revival of the winemaking industry in our state, which began with our St. James founders, Jim and Pat Hofherr. The Senate Bill Peter can discuss the history of the bill, his involvement, and what it means for the industry, our great state, and St. James Winery History of St. James Winery Jim wanted to make amazing wine for family and friends and Pat agreed - as long as they could make a business out of it. It was her idea to open the tasting room right along Route 66 and share their amazing products with a wider audience. Peter is the second generation ownership of our family company now, but in the past has also served our state as the Director of Agriculture and continues to work hand-in-hand on federal and state legislation impacting our industry St. James Winery now produces 500,000 gallons of wine per year The Future at St. James Winery Our Vines and Wines Chambourcin is a relatively new grape — it was commercialized in 1963 Cynthiana (aka Norton): the official grape of the State of Missouri and is considered the cornerstone of the Missouri wine industry.  A fruity and complex, full-bodied dry red wine with flavors of red stone fruit, raspberries and blackberries. Smooth tannins and a terrific texture make it a perfect partner with barbecue or aromatic cheeses. Top Awards 2018 Best Native American Red Wine, Platinum (94 pts) Critics Challenge International 2018 Gold Pacific Rim International 2016 Best Varietal/Best of Class/Gold New World 2016 Double Gold Florida State Fair International 2016 Gold Finger Lakes International 2016 Gold Mid-American