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Augusta Wine Trail celebrates important anniversary this month

On June 20th, 1980, Augusta was designated as the first American Viticultural Area in the United States.

Augusta, MO — When driving the Augusta Wine Trail, the quote, "Life is a journey, enjoy the ride" comes to mind.

Tony Kooyumjian, owner of Augusta and Montelle Winery, said, "It's rolling highway and it's a lot of fun, especially if you have a sports car or motorcycle but even in the family sedan, it's a lot of fun."

If you're coming from St. Louis on Highway 94 you'll see wineries like Montelle, Augusta Winery, Noboleis, and Balducci.

Tony said, "The distance between Montelle and Balducci is 7 miles. This is the breath of the Augusta Viticultural Area so it's a very small Viticultural area but there's a reason for it."

The Augusta grape growing region might be small but it is mighty.

"This soil isn't every place in the world, not every place in Missouri. The story starts 10,000 years ago when the last continental glacier was rumbling through Missouri. It stopped right here and so as the ice melted, it left all these rich soils, a lot of minerals, organic matter, well drained soils that grapes happen to grow really well in," he said.

The soil and the microclimate make a big difference in the taste of the wine.

"On June 20,1980, the federal government recognized our area, the superiority of our area, and designated us as the first American Viticultural Area in United States and that was quite an accomplishment. 18 months later, Napa was chosen as number 2," he said.

Right now in Augusta, they're starting to see grape clusters on the vines.

"Your within 40 minutes of an authentic wine growing area and people can come out and taste wines for themselves," he said.

Montelle Winery
201 Montelle Drive


Augusta Winery
5601 High Street


Noboleis Vineyards
100 Hemsath Rd


Balducci VIneyards
6601 S Highway 94

Before You Leave, Check This Out