First Look: Wild Sun Winery in Hillsboro

Pack a picnic and hit the road – Wild Sun Winery is now open at 4830 Pioneer Road in Hillsboro. As The Scoop reported in June, respected Missouri winemaker Mark Baehmann fulfilled his lifelong dream when he left Chaumette Vineyards to open Wild Sun with business partner Ed Wagner.

Along with swarms of volunteers, the pair transformed an 1870s home into a 4,400-square-foot winery with a tasting room, production building, expansive patio space and event amenities. Wild Sun sits on 10 acres, but events will be capped at 125 people. “We want to be known as a winery,” Baehmann said. “It’s all about the quality of the experience, the quality of the wine.”

Wild Sun is open for tastings, picnics and yard games, if you bring them. Customers can also bring their own food or order from a small menu of pizzas and snacks to enjoy on a three-level patio. Sip and wander around the pond or the barn they plan to transform into a brewery this spring.

Wild Sun opens with nine wines all made with Missouri grapes, except for a cabernet sauvignon, which is made with grapes from Washington state. Grab a bottle of that or a Missouri favorite like chardonel, Norton or chambourcin to bring home.

Wild Sun is open Wednesday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Here’s a first look at what to expect when you make the drive to Hillsboro.