Winemaker Interview
Celebrating America's First Appellation: An interview with Tony Kooyumjian of Augusta Winery
Appellation Signature Wine:
"Montelle’s Norton (Cynthiana) is one for the toasted oak fans. However, there is also a distinguishing earthiness or minerality that, mixing with dried berry flavors, shapes a wine that is unmistakably Norton. This is a wine that does not seek to hide its American heritage; it is sophisticated with a little refreshing wildness."
History of Montelle Winery:
Montelle Winery has played an important role in the remarkable rebirth of Missouri winemaking and the
Augusta Wine District. The Augusta region was nationally known for its wine during the 19th century, but Prohibition halted the state's winemaking for decades.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, a few pioneering souls began to refurbish the old vineyards and winery buildings of Missouri's premier wine-growing regions. One of these pioneers was Clayton Byers, who founded Montelle Vineyards in 1970.
Winemaker Tasting Notes:
Native American grape, aged in American Oak barrels, deep burgundy in color, rich aroma. Slight raspberry & black cherry fruitiness, full body with a lingering finish. Similar to a Cabernet.