MEMBER FEATURE
Going Green
Meet Missouri’s
first green winery
By Joann Pipkin
In the shadows of the big city lights and jet-set
madness, the rolling hills of northwest Missouri lead
us to the northland.
The hum of Interstate 29 fades. Tucked away in
a quiet, forested opening off the back roads between
Platte City and Weston, a little taste of wine country
makes its home. As Jowler Creek trickles in the
distance, its namesake earns its keep as Missouri’s first
green winery.
Here, Jowler Creek Vineyard and Winery corners
the market on sustainable agriculture while owners
Jason and Colleen Gerke pour customers a fun-filled
experience right in their own backyard.
Jason and Colleen Gerke’s Jowler Creek Vineyard and Winery
began as a hobby with them making wine in their basement.
Savvy marketing skills helped the couple develop two wine labels
and create memorable experiences for their customers right in
their backyard.
HEARTBEAT | SUMMER 2017 5