The Hermann Wine Trail is fortunate to have some of the most talented winemakers in the state making wine in our historical region. They are extremely passionate about what they do, which is evident with the large number of award-winning wines they have collectively produced over the years.
We thought it would be fun to share their thoughts on making wine in Hermann, their backgrounds, their wine favorites and just get to know the person behind the scenes. We will feature one winemaker a month, so stay tuned.
Here is our first winemaker of the series:
Shaun Turnbull, Winemaker – Stone Hill Winery
Years in the Industry: 15 total. 9 in MO
Favorite Varietal or Blend: Norton and Vidal Blanc Methode Champenoise (sparkling wine)
Favorite Wine & Food Pairing: Wine with food 🙂
Top Wines to Taste Now: The young aromatic varieties like Vignoles, Traminette or a crisp fresh Vidal Blanc. The 2012 Chardonel is awesome!! Norton between 2007 and 2011 are also drinking well right now. I personally prefer the younger Norton’s. And probably the top wine to taste now (and always really), is something new that you never have had before.
What I Like Most About Hermann Wines: They have their own unique character and personality.
What wine you are most proud of: Vidal Blanc Ice Wine currently. Never made it before and it turned out a-OK!!
Favorite Thing to Do (when not making wine): Try and play guitar – love/hate relationship really….
Background: Originally from South Africa where, in 1999, I graduated from Elsenburg Agricultural College with a degree in winemaking. Spent 6 years in the industry there before permanently moving to Hermann, Missouri. Also did harvests in Napa Valley, CA and Charlottesville, VA.
Thanks Shaun for sharing your thoughts and background! We hope you stay in Hermann making wine. We are lucky to have talents such as yours on the Hermann Wine Trail!
Cheers!
Shaun Turnbull, Winemaker at Stone Hill Winery
