The Missouri State Fair offers numerous opportunities to learn about the agricultural industry in Missouri, including the state's well-established wine industry. In this episode of the "Live from the Fair" series, I sit down with Jim Anderson, Executive Director of the Missouri Wine and Grape Board.

Jim has been in his current role for over twenty five years and oversees the day-to-day operations for the Board. Since joining, he has played an integral role in the growth and success of the Missouri wine industry. The Missouri State Fair offers the opportunities to contribute to this success through education, wine tastings, one-on-one classes and more.

Join us for this episode of OUTdrive as we talk about the role wine plays in Missouri agriculture and tourism. We also discuss what's ahead for 2022 and ways Missouri locals and visitors can experience all the state has to offer.

What you'll learn:

• New experiences and educational opportunities that the Missouri State Fair provides for wine lovers and amateurs alike
• Partnerships and how the Missouri Wine and Group Board partners with other industries and educational institutions to improve the Missouri wine industry
• The important role the wine industry plays in Missouri and how it drives economic and tourism growth
• The unique history of Missouri wine and how it has grown to what it is today
• Jim's favorite aspects of the fair, including the opportunities to educate others and build friendships along the way
• Partnerships between the Missouri Wine Tent and other fair vendors that provide a unique experience for fairgoers
• An inside look at what Missouri Wine Country has to offer for visitors, from day trips to extended weekends
• How wineries across the state are adapting and overcoming the effects of COVID-19