The Final Pour: 5 Things You MUST Experience Before Chaumette Vineyards & Winery Closes Forever
The news has sent shockwaves through the Missouri wine country: Chaumette Vineyards & Winery, a beloved destination known for its award-winning wines, luxury villas, and the scenic Grapevine Grill, is officially closing its doors. This announcement, coming after 25 years of operation, marks the end of an era for the Ste. Genevieve landmark, which has served as a premier getaway for countless visitors from St. Louis and beyond. The property’s final day under the current ownership is set for August 15, 2025, making the next few months the last chance to experience the magic of Chaumette as we know it.
The transition is the biggest story in Missouri viticulture right now, with the 310-acre estate set to be reimagined by its new owners, Life Teen International. This Catholic youth ministry organization plans to convert the picturesque vineyards and resort into a center for faith-based summer camps, retreats, and leadership programs. For wine lovers and luxury travelers, the clock is ticking to savor the last moments of this iconic Missouri winery.
The Visionary Founder and The Legacy of Chaumette
The story of Chaumette Vineyards & Winery is inextricably linked to its founder, Hank Johnson, and his wife, Jackie Johnson. What began as a simple weekend getaway property in 1990 evolved into one of the Midwest’s most celebrated wine destinations.
Hank Johnson, a man who successfully blended his love for business with a passion for viticulture, purchased the expansive 310-acre plot in Ste. Genevieve County. The winery's unique name is a nod to Johnson's family history, specifically his mother's maiden name, tracing back to an ancestor named Jean de la Chaumette, who was born in France in 1664.
- Founders: Hank and Jackie Johnson
- Property Purchased: 1990
- First Grapes Planted: 1992
- Wine Production Began: 2000
- Tasting Room Opened: 2003
- Location: Ste. Genevieve, Missouri (Missouri Wine Trail)
- Signature Grape: Chardonel
- Total Operating Years: 25 years
- Final Day of Operation: August 15, 2025
Johnson's vision was not just about producing wine, but about creating an all-encompassing experience. This philosophy led to the development of luxury lodging, a high-end restaurant, and a premier event venue, establishing Chaumette as a true destination resort in the heart of Missouri wine country.
The Shocking Transition: From Wine Resort to Retreat Center
The biggest news surrounding Chaumette is the transfer of ownership to Life Teen International, a Catholic youth ministry organization. This move, scheduled for August 15, 2025, marks a dramatic shift in the property's purpose.
Life Teen International is well-known for providing resources and experiences that lead teens and their families into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Their acquisition of the sprawling Ste. Genevieve property signals a major expansion of their retreat and camp offerings.
The Future of the 310-Acre Estate
The scenic vineyards, once dedicated to growing acclaimed Missouri grapes like Chardonel and Chambourcin, will soon host a new kind of gathering. Life Teen International plans to transform the estate into a year-round Catholic summer camp and retreat center.
The existing infrastructure—including the luxury villas, the event spaces, and potentially the Grapevine Grill building—will be repurposed to support faith-based programming, leadership development, and community building for Catholic youth. This transition highlights the property’s immense value as a serene, beautiful location, perfectly suited for spiritual reflection and large-scale events, even if the events are no longer wine-focused.
5 Essential Experiences to Book Before August 15, 2025
With the closing date rapidly approaching, the remaining months offer a limited window to enjoy the quintessential Chaumette experience. If you’ve been planning a visit, now is the time to book. These five experiences are considered essential for a proper farewell to the Missouri wine institution.
1. Savor an Evening at The Grapevine Grill
The Grapevine Grill is more than a winery restaurant; it is a culinary destination. Known for its Contemporary American cuisine, the restaurant has consistently received high praise for pairing its seasonal menu with Chaumette's extensive wine portfolio.
A final meal here is a must. Patrons should seek out dishes that complement the signature Chardonel, a dry white wine that has become synonymous with Chaumette's excellence. The atmosphere, with its stunning views of the rolling vineyards and the distant hills, is arguably the best dining view in Missouri wine country.
2. Indulge in a Stay at The Villages at Chaumette
The luxury villas at Chaumette, collectively known as The Villages, offer a peaceful, high-end retreat experience. These charming cottages provide amenities like fireplaces, private balconies, and full kitchens, making them perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing St. Louis day trip extension.
Booking a villa stay before the August 15th closure is the only way to fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of the estate and enjoy a morning coffee overlooking the 310-acre property before its transformation. Availability is expected to be extremely limited, so early booking is highly recommended.
3. Taste the Signature Award-Winning Wines
Chaumette has built its reputation on producing high-quality, award-winning Missouri wines. While they offer a diverse portfolio, a farewell tasting should focus on their most acclaimed varietals.
The Chardonel, often highlighted as the winery's signature grape, is a hybrid known for its crisp, dry profile. Another must-try is the Chambourcin, a versatile red that thrives in the Missouri climate. Visiting the Tasting Room for a final flight is the perfect way to pay homage to the winery's 25 years of viticultural excellence.
4. Attend a Final Vineyard Event or Wedding
Throughout its history, Chaumette has been a premier venue for weddings, corporate events, and seasonal celebrations. The picturesque setting, complete with a beautiful pavilion and event spaces, has hosted countless memorable occasions.
Check Chaumette’s official events calendar immediately for any remaining scheduled events, such as wine dinners, concerts, or holiday celebrations. For couples, securing one of the last wedding dates before the August transition would ensure a truly historic and unique venue for their big day.
5. Explore the Scenic Hiking Trails
Beyond the vines and the villas, the expansive 310-acre property offers scenic hiking trails that allow guests to explore the natural beauty of the Ste. Genevieve area. These trails provide a different perspective of the landscape that has made Chaumette such a beloved retreat.
Taking a final walk through the grounds offers a moment of reflection on the legacy of the Johnson family and the natural splendor that will soon serve a new, faith-based mission under Life Teen International. It’s a quiet, contemplative way to say goodbye to a Missouri treasure.
The End of an Era in Missouri Wine Country
The closure of Chaumette Vineyards & Winery on August 15, 2025, is a significant event for the Missouri Wine Trail. The estate’s 25-year run established a high bar for hospitality, culinary arts, and quality wine production in the region.
While the transition to Life Teen International promises a new chapter of service and community for the property, the loss of Chaumette as a premier wine and luxury destination will be deeply felt by the local community and wine enthusiasts across the Midwest. The final months represent a unique opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Hank and Jackie Johnson and experience the award-winning destination one last time.
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