Meet the Winemaker Tasting at Rendez Vous Wine Bar

If you're looking to expand your wine horizons on a global scale, you don't have to go to the airport. Just get in your car and head to Rendez Vous Cafe and Wine Bar in O'Fallon, MO.  This local restaurant and wine bar offers patrons delicious dishes and a large variety of wines from around the world. They offer an assortment of wine classes, beer tastings, wine glass paintings and much more. We've gotten really excited about their Meet the Winemaker Tasting Events. We had the opportunity to meet Patricio Santos from Santos Vineyard in Argentina. His father was one of the first people to export Mablec in 1971 when it was still just considered a "second class" variety. Malbecs are extremely popular now and are a household man. Patricio sampled 6 of his wines, and Rendez Vous paired each sample with a delicious taste. We are really looking forward to the next event like this!

1. Terco Torrontes - floral bouquet, very similar to a Missouri Traminette, dry, buttery/oaky finish, thick mouth-feel, pairs well with spicy and garlicky foods (Side note: Torrontes make a good table grape) Paired with  buttery garlic shrimp.

2. Santos Semillion - light, crisp with hints of green apple, similar to a Missouri Vidal Blanc or Seyval Blanc, very refreshing and full-bodied. Paired with Chicken Enchilada Casserole.

3. Tercos Bonarda - lasting raspberry aroma, not oaked, jammy and smooth, similar to a Missouri St. Vincent, can be served chilled (Side note: This is the second most popular variety in Argentina, used mainly for blending) Paired with Jalapeños Cheese Dip and Tortilla Chips. 

4. Tercos Sangiovese - Italian varietal, fruit finish, balanced, no oak, but long finish, easy to drink. Paired with Tomatoes, Mozzarella with Balsamic Vinegar and Baguette. 

5. Santos Malbec - peppery, full-bodied, complex but balanced, "elegant style of wine" -Patricio Santos. Paired with a Chicken Empanada.

6. Santos Cabernet Sauvignon - Tobacco and leather aromas, full-bodied, intense flavors, very complex. Paired with a Chocolate Caramel Cupcake. 

Find out more about Rendez Vous Cafe and Wine Bar and other upcoming events here. 

Follow them on Facebook here. 

SALUD!

Wine Bars in St. Charles County

It sure is fun to go out and explore the Missouri wine regions and see the countryside when the temperatures start rising, but what about all the possibilities that are right here in St. Louis?

Within the confines of St. Charles County one can find a plethora of wine bars to choose from.  Each with their own distinct flare and wine selections that will please even the most specific of pallets.

St. Charles County

If you're coming from St. Louis and you have to cross the river into St. Charles County, you'd better make a stop at one of these awesome wine bars!

Unkorked Wine Garden - Wentzville, MO

Unkorked is a pleasant house turned wine bar affair.  The place is owned by a mother/daughter duo, and they know their wine.  They've converted the old garage into a sweet place to hang out.  They've got live music often and their patio is perfect for relaxing.  Right in the old part of Wentzville, Unkorked is most definitely a place to "chill".  We recommend the Allegro Moscato and Spinach Artichoke Dip.

Domain Street Wine Bar - St. Charles, MO in "New Town"

 

Domain is a wonderful place to experience New Town first hand if you've never been.  Equipped with TVs, a pool table, darts, and a modern yet laid back feel, Domain will keep you coming back for more.  Check out a game of sand volleyball right out the front door or take a stroll along one of New Town's many avenues or waterways.  We recommend Heavenly Retreat Riesling paired with Shakespeare's Pizza.

The Vine - St. Charles, MO on "Main"

Main street in St. Charles offers plenty of shopping, dining, and of course drinking.  You've got your pick of a couple places that will definitely please.  The Vine is one of them!  The restaurant/wine bar is very intimate and only seats a select few, lucky guests.  Be sure to call ahead to reserve your spot.  This is a great place to take a date if you really want to impress. We recommend anything from their reds selection.  Be sure to check out Grandma's Cookies down the street for dessert!

Picasso's Coffee House - St. Charles, MO on "Main"

Though we never get "down" from wine indulgence sometimes we need a little pick-me-up.  Picasso's offers the best of both worlds with their delicious, uniquely styled coffees and a wine selection to boot!  Pick up a cup of joe or grab a glass of vino because this charming place is filled to the brim with hip.  We recommend the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino for a break from wine. 

Saint Charles Coffee Cafe & Wine Bar  - St. Peters, MO

Don't get confused! Even though it is called St. Charles Coffee Cafe & Wine Bar, it is in St. Peters.  Regardless of location, this place is worth the trek down 94 from I-70.  Why?  They have an awesome atmosphere, complete with a patio and wine slushies!  It is definitely one of our favorites for cooling off after some yard work.  Swing on by for a piece of cake/pie or relax to the tunes of a local artist.  We recommend Wine Slushies.

Rendezvous Cafe and Wine Bar - O'Fallon, MO

Schedule some time to make a rendezvous with wines from around the world at Revdenzous Café and Wine Bar. They offer over 400 different wines and each month they highlight new wines and offer wine flights. They also have wine tastings and classes such as "Merlots from Around the World" and  "Paint Your Own Wine Glass." Come in for some live music, stay for their large menu which includes tapas, pizzas, and much more, and explore wines from around the globe. We recommend sampling the Monthly Featured Wines.