STE. GENEVIEVE, Mo. – Cave Vineyard is celebrating 20 years in the wine business! It all started in 1995 when Marty & Mary Jo Strussion purchased acreage in Ste. Genevieve County with the intention of building their dream retirement home. Once their home was built and they were all settled, it took Marty a whole 10 minutes to realize that “retirement” was not for him. He then discovered that their property was perfect for grape growing. The rest, as they say, is history.
The first seven acres of grapevine were planted in 2000, another 7 acres in 2001. The first harvest of these vines was in 2003 and the tasting room doors opened for the first time with a 2003 vintage in May of 2004.
The winery is very much a family affair. All 4 of Marty & Mary Jo’s daughters are involved, as are their husbands, who are affectionately referred to as the S.I.L.’s (Sons in law). There are 9 grandsons who have grown up in the business and provided much needed summertime help. The Strussions have also been fortunate to have some amazing folks helping in the vineyard, winery, & tasting room who have become family. What truly makes Cave Vineyard unique is the remarkable Saltpeter Cave that is located directly below the tasting room. Guests are able to enjoy a unique wine country experience, sipping wine inside a natural cave!
The family is proud to offer their own artisanal craft products, along with other Ste. Genevieve and Missouri favorites. Keeping it local has always been a focus. The Strussions are very proud to grow their own grapes, vint, & bottle their own wines. Over the years, craft beer and spirits were added. The biscotti bar, offering Italian cookies based on Grandma Strussion’s recipe, was an addition based on family tradition. The Strussion’s grew up dunking their biscotti in wine. They found themselves indulging at the winery often, why not offer to guests?
“It’s hard to believe that 20 years have gone by.” Says Marty. “It has been a lot of hard work, but it’s a great lifestyle. I would do it all over again.” Mary Jo stated, “This is a wonderful family project that has kept our family close for all these years. We are so thankful.”
Cave Vineyard will celebrate their 20th Anniversary at the winery on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Guests will have the opportunity to taste 2 new special releases. A dry white and dry red wine have been crafted especially for this anniversary. Grandma Strussion’s biscotti will also be available. All are invited to come reminisce and celebrate this special milestone.
Cave Vineyard is open daily April-October, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.