Grape and wine production have a long history in the St. James area. Officially recognized as the Ozark Highlands, our region is fondly known as “Little Italy of the Ozarks” thanks to the establishment of an Italian settlement in the area more than 100 years ago. The Italians who settled here planted vineyards, and by 1922 over 2000 acres of grapes on about 200 vineyards dotted the landscape. Over the years a strong Italian heritage and influence has remained in the St. James area.
Grape and wine production have a long history in the St. James area. Officially recognized as the Ozark Highlands, our region is fondly known as “Little Italy of the Ozarks” thanks to the establishment of an Italian settlement in the area more than 100 years ago. The Italians who settled here planted vineyards, and by 1922 over 2000 acres of grapes on about 200 vineyards dotted the landscape. Over the years a strong Italian heritage and influence has remained in the St. James area.
