Oct. 19: Coming soon - a wino's guide to St. Louis

By Adam Claypool
Metromix

It's the middle of October, which means it's the perfect time to head out to wine country. We here at Metromix are in the process of putting together a comprehensive wine guide that will have you enjoying wine here in town, and in Hermann, Augusta and Ste. Genevieve. You may have already seen our guides to Augusta and Ste. Genevieve. If so, you'll know that there are plenty of spots to score good wine, good scenery and a good time. Personally, Ste. Genevieve is my favorite place to retreat to. I think the rolling hills offer spectacular vistas, but I also like the variety. Chaumette has you covered when it comes to upscale and classy (and I'm a little partial to this place, as it's where I got married). Crown Valley has the most variety when it comes to the actual wine. And if fruity wine is your thing, you can't beat Sainte Genevieve Winery downtown. Now might not be the best time to hang out in the actual cave at Cave Winery, but the fact that it's there is pretty cool in itself. Another reason I really like Ste. Gen is the beer. Crown Valley just opened a brewery, and they offer more than half a dozen specialty beers. I can't wait to get back and try their strawberry cider. But, hands-down, Charleville has some of the best beer I've ever had. Whether we're talking about the pilsner (which was served at my wedding, and drew lots of compliments from the guests) to my personal favorite, the strawberry blond ale.

Enough about Ste. Genevieve, though. Augusta is awesome, and a little closer. And Hermann is a really neat place to get wine too. You'll find comprehensive guides to all three wine regions—as well as the best wine bars in town—when we unveil our wine guide later on this week. So stay tuned... you won't want to miss this!