Grapes: from the vine to wine!
Enjoying a Sunday morning touring Jowler Creek Winery!
Missouri's first "green" winery.
Did you know the University of Missouri has a viticulture major? Or that there are more than 100 wineries in Missouri? I had the opportunity to visit Jowler Creek Winery for an area agriculture intern event this summer. While I could not sample the products, I did get to witness the wine making process from Missouri's first ecologically friendly winery.
Jowler creek uses sustainable methods such as sheep grazing for weed prevention and chickens to control insects. What began as a hobby has turned into a passion and new career for the owners. (One of whom is a MU Ag J alumni!) The winery hosts annual harvesting events, grape festivals and group tastings.
Before Prohibition, Missouri was the second largest wine producing state in the country. Though it has gone down slightly in rank since then, Missouri is still a driving force in the viticulture industry. If you get a chance, be sure to tour a Missouri winery.
Cheers!
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