Lindwedel Winery celebrates 15 years

By CINDY THOMAS, Staff Writer

In 1995, the Lindwedel family gave in to their love for the lake and scenic views by deciding to leave city life. Stephen, Kim, and their three daughters settled in the Ozarks on Table Rock Lake just outside of Branson.

Many wines are offered at Lindwedel Winery, now celebrating their 15th anniversary.

Photo by Cindy Thomas

Inspired by visits to Missouri’s wine country in 2005 and 2006, Steve began thinking of ways to combine his chemistry background with his enjoyment of relaxing with family and friends, and the idea of Lindwedel Winery was born. In 2007, they purchased a house and acreage west of Branson, overlooking the west end of 76 Country Boulevard through Branson and the Shepherd of the Hills Inspiration Tower. This month, Lindwedel Winery celebrates its 15th year providing area residents and tourists with a place to relax, take in the view, and enjoy delicious handcrafted wines.

Son-in-law Adam Jett got on board with the business by learning the craft of winemaking, and for the past 10 years, many of the wines featured at Lindwedel Winery have been crafted there on site, featuring Missouri-grown grapes and other specially-selected fruits.

The winery, located at 3158 St. Hwy. 265, has indoor and outdoor seating and offers live music through the spring and fall, with favorite local groups performing regularly. There are occasional open dates; contact manager Lauren Lindwedel at 417-338- 0256 for information. Wine newbies can enjoy a “flight” of wine as a way to learn the subtleties of different flavors, aromas and colors; more experienced tasters can enjoy the variety as well or choose their favorites. Lauren Lindwedel said there are usually at least 15 wines to choose from, including an immensely popular blackberry. Their specialty Table Rock Red and Table Rock White are also popular. Snack items such as pretzels, breads and charcuterie boards are available for order, or patrons may bring their favorite snacks to enjoy with the wines. More recently, Lindwedel Winery has offered the portability and convenience of canned wines, and after starting with favorites from other suppliers, has purchased their own canner.

Lindwedel Winery also participate in the Ozarks Tap & Pour Tour, which began its 2022-23 season July 1. This Springfield-based beverage passport includes many of the region’s most popular wineries, breweries and distilleries, and participants can earn stickers, T-shirts and collectibles for their visits, plus the chance to be entered for a gift drawing at the end of the season. Many locations offer a discount as part of the program as well; learn more at https://www. springfieldmo.org/tapandpour/.

Comfortable and relaxing outdoor seating with a scenic view

Photo by Cindy Thomas

While officially retired, Steve and Kim continue to be involved and enjoying their original mission and vision for Lindwedel Winery, expressed on their website, “The Lindwedel Winery, with the ability and fruits given by God, will supply and/or produce wines for the delight of his people, that they may take pleasure in several of his greatest blessings: Family, friends, and the beauty of his creation.”

Hours through October are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Lindwedel Winery is also available for special events; learn more at www.lindwedelwinery. com, where you can also check out the live music schedule, explore the list of varieties, and see photos of the winemaking process. The family looks forward to meeting visitors and area residents alike and helping other families gather to make memories.