What’s one of nearly every Kansas Citian’s favorite summer pastimes? Drinking wine. In fact, did you know that Missouri had the second largest winery in the nation before prohibition? So, you could say loving wine is in our blood.

Our changing climates and rich soil here in the Midwest make for perfect conditions for growing grapes, including Cynthiana/Norton, Catawba, Concord, Vignoles, Chambourcin, and Seyval. Because our average temperatures are moderate, Missouri’s and Kansas’s climates are ideal for naturally cellaring wine.

Mouth watering yet? Release your inner sommelier and tour these local KC wineries this summer!

KC Wine Co.

KC Wine Co. is a boutique winery in Olathe, KS, and hosts private to large group tastings. Their Pinterest-worthy Barrel Room (seriously- it’s a large barrel) is the perfect summer escape for birthdays, girls day out or any special occasion. They have a large variety of palate pleasing wines from red to white and everything in between. They also have ciders for those who want a little spice!

Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery

Located just 25 minutes from KC, Somerset Ridge Vineyard & Winery has been family-owned since 1983. With over 8,000 grapevines, they have a wine to please all palates from dry whites to sweet dessert wines. They also have fun events like live music and tapas all spring and summer long.

Belvoir Winery

Known as one of KC’s most popular wedding venues, you’re most likely already familiar with Belvoir Winery. Once The Odd Fellows home, this historic building has architecture like no other. When you come for a free wine tasting, you’re able to view historical artifacts and features while sipping on a glass of Sorelle Dolci or Casanova. If you’re a history buff and want to admire pristine architecture and sip on delicious wine, you’ll love touring Belvoir Winery!

Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery

For those who are all about the green way of life, Jowler Creek is for you; they use solar power to make their wine! This first green winery in the state of Missouri serves nine award-winning wines from sweet to dry, perfect for all palates. They’re always hosting fun events, so be sure to visit them this summer.

Pirtle Winery

Located in Weston, Pirtle Winery is a historic, small family-owned winery that produces award-winning wines on site. Enjoy free tastings in their quaint vine-covered wine garden and tour their historic 1867 building that was built by German immigrants. Their wines include anything from vignoles to rosè.

If you’ve never visited any of the wineries listed above, you’re missing out. Winery tours and tastings are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, girls’ night out, or any other special occasion. Overland Chauffeured Services would love to be your ride for the day, getting you to and from wineries safely with our special event transportation services. We also offer custom tours of your choosing! Map out which and how many wineries you’d like to tour, the duration of your tour, etc. To tour local wineries in style, book online or call (913) 381-3504. We’d love to be your designated driver for a fun day of wine tastings!