Let’s start with what is an appellation. An appellation is a specifically designated wine region. In the U.S. these are called American Viticulture Areas or AVAs. There are five that are in or touch parts of Missouri. But the day we celebrate as Appellation Day, June 20, marks when the first AVA was named in 1980. That region wasn’t Napa or Sonoma, it was Augusta, Missouri. This means a lot to our local wine industry because it recognizes not only the unique soil, climate and overall terroir of the area, but our rich winemaking history and the impact the wine industry has on the culture of our state.

There is a strong sense of place in an appellation. The wine made from grapes grown there takes on the personality of the region. Norton is the official state grape and the most widely grown varietal in Missouri. However, a Norton wine from Augusta and one from the Ozark Highlands or Hermann AVA taste different when compared side by side, and certainly different than Norton wine from another state or country.

Beyond the flavor of the wine, appellation gives a certain pride to the grape growers and wine makers of the respective areas as well. It’s not an easy feat growing quality grapes and making award-winning wines anywhere, but especially in the demanding climate of the Midwest. The dedicated folks of the Missouri wine industry know some things are worth the work. They take pride in where they cultivate their vineyards and craft their wines.

Celebrate Appellation Day by raising a glass to the winemakers, past and present, who make our local wine industry something to be proud of. Cheers!