River Ridge Winery, situated in a century old farm house, and nestled in the hills above the Mississippi River, is owned by Jerry Smith, winemaker, and his wife, Joannie.  The hand tended French Hyrid and Vinifers grapes grown on the hills behind the winery, produce wines of the highest quality.

Jerry purchased the 80 acre farm and began planting grapes in 1980. Joannie, ironically, began the Christmas tree and Yule Log Cabin the same year.  They later met and married February of 1993.  Work began refurbishing the old farm house to become the winery.  The doors opened September 17, 1994. 

Every year brought a new project in the expansion of River Ridge.  The new wine production building, The Fermentation Room Cafe, pavilion, two tiered patio with firepit, moving the Yule Log Cabin to the bigger cabin, opening the Little Log Cabin for overnight guests and planting the Vinifera vineyard were major steps in River Ridge growth.  Keller Ford became General Manager and Assistant Winemaker in 2003.  The River Ridge staff now consists on 15 wonderful, full and part-time employees and still growing.

Wine production topped 4000 gallons.  Our goal of producing the best wines our Missouri soils can grow is being obtained with the Vinifera vineyard.  Unusual and sometimes considered not possible, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah and Chardonnay are thriving in  River Ridge’s vineyard.

You will always be greeted by a smiling face at River Ridge Winery 364 days a year.  Plan to spend the afternoon if you can.  Hike a short distance to stroll the vineyards, or discover the tranquility of our pond.  Enjoy a relaxing meal in our dining room, pavilion or winery grounds.  Your meal is always prepared to order from fresh ingredients. Browse our unique gift shop where you’ll find a great selection of fun gifts, wine accessories and gourmet foods. If you visit between September and December save time to visit The Yule Log cabin Christmas shop just four miles from the winery. The combination of great food and live entertainment have introduced many people to the pleasure of celebrating life with food and wine.

     Come as a customer, leave as a friend.        Jerry and Joannie Smith