White Mule Winery and Bed & Breakfast
Owensville, Missouri
Description
The White Mule Winery and Bed & Breakfast
Located in the heart of Missouri's wine country, The White Mule Winery and Bed & Breakfast offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern vineyard culture. This family-owned estate is not only a destination for wine enthusiasts but also a picturesque venue for special events and a cozy getaway.
History and Background
The White Mule Winery is situated on a historic farmstead which has been part of the regional heritage since the turn of the century. Originally sitting behind the old Charlotte store and post office, the property is linked to the Schlottach family's great-grandfather, a blacksmith serving the Old Iron Road Trail. Their acquisition of the neighboring Roethemeyer Farm in 2004 marked the beginning of the vineyard and the restoration of the old farm house into what is now known as The White Mule.
The name "White Mule" itself is inspired by a pair of white mules used by the Roethemeyer family well into the 1980s, which were local icons along a notorious curve on Highway 50 known as “White Mule Curve.”
Vineyard Details and Wine Production
The vineyard at The White Mule Winery focuses on cultivating native American grapes, a variety praised by historical figures such as Thomas Jefferson but only recently gaining recognition for its quality, especially in Missouri. The winery invites guests to explore their ranges of wine, each telling a story of the local land and its history.
Visitor Information and Experiences
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Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM - CLOSE
- Restaurant Hours:
- Friday: 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM - 8:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM
- CLOSED Mondays
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Dining Experience:
- Offering meals every weekend with a focus on "farm-to-table" dishes including fresh steak and local produce.
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Special Events:
- Perfect for weddings, class reunions, birthdays, and other events, the venue promises a memorable setting tailored to individual preferences. Each wedding at The White Mule is unique, set against the backdrop of Missouri’s stunning landscapes.
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Accommodation:
- The on-site Bed & Breakfast is housed in a 100+ year old farm home, fully refurbished to offer a comfortable and rustic stay.
Notable Wines or Specialties
The White Mule prides itself on its unique collection of wines made from native American grapes, celebrated for their rich heritage and increasingly recognized quality. The winery encourages tasting sessions where their passion for winemaking and the grape's storied past is shared with visitors.
Contact Information and Location
- Phone: (573) 764-4800
- Location: Central Missouri, along the historical path from St. James Missouri to the Missouri River at Hermann.
For those seeking an immersive experience in the history and culture of American winemaking or a memorable venue for special occasions, The White Mule Winery and Bed & Breakfast stands out as a prime destination.