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Sip, Savor & Support: The Annual Best USA Sommelier Association Fundraiser (Hermann, MO)


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If you call yourself a wine aficionado, mark your calendar and book your stay: the Annual Best USA Sommelier Association Fundraiser is one of the most anticipated Missouri wine-country events of the year.


Whether you're hoping to rub elbows with sommeliers and dedicated connoisseurs, or simply enjoy a night of elevated dining and fine wine, this is an evening you won’t want to miss.



Missouri wine country’s insider evening has it all—chef-crafted courses, sommelier-curated pairings, and a rare-bottle auction for a cause, and a draw of attendants from near and far. Seats tend to go quickly, so plan early and make it a weekend at The Mercantile on the Katy Trail.


Event Fast Facts


  • What: Annual Best USA Sommelier Association (BUSA) Fundraiser

  • When: First Saturday of November · 5:00–9:00 PM

  • Where: Hermann Farm, 27 Stone Barn Rd, Hermann, MO 65041

  • Phone: 573-486-3276

  • Tickets: Price varies. Reserve promptly when tickets are announced (historically, ticketed portions sell out). Event Link



What to Expect


This isn’t your average wine tasting. Expect an immersive evening of gastronomy, rare bottle auctions, and inspiring wine fellowship. Some highlights:


  • Multi-Course Dinner by Top Chef - A culinary collaboration led by an acclaimed Chef will craft courses to complement the wines—imaginative, finely balanced, and memorable.


  • Optional Premium Wine Pairing by a Fine Wine Merchant - For those seeking the full experience, the wine merchant—will curate a bespoke wine pairing to accompany each course.


  • Host & Guest Appearances - The evening will be hosted by JiaMin and Michael Dierberg, alongside BUSA President Doug Frost, MS, MW. Their passion for wine and education will help elevate the evening’s discourse and energy.


  • Exclusive Auction of Private Cellar Wines - One of the rare draws: bidding on exceptional bottles straight from private collections—including those of the hosts and Doug Frost himself.


  • Mission-Driven Purpose - Every dollar raised goes to support BUSA’s mission and to assist U.S. Sommelier Champion Mark Guillaudeu, MS, in preparing Team USA for the Annual World Sommelier Championship.


Why It Matters


Support the Sommelier Community - Your participation fuels education, scholarship, and international representation for U.S. sommeliers.


A Unique Networking Pool - This event draws seasoned wine professionals, collectors, and enthusiasts. It's an opportunity to engage with people whose taste and knowledge could elevate your own.


Experience Something Uncommon - Rare bottle auctions, intriguing food–wine pairings, and conversations with top-tier sommeliers—these are not everyday offerings.


Celebrate Wine Heritage in Missouri - Hermann Farm’s deep ties to local wine and spirits underscore the region’s legacy—this event bridges past tradition and future innovation.



Stay Close: The Mercantile on the Katy Trail


Upgrade your night into a relaxed wine-country weekend. The Mercantile’s apartment-style suites (full kitchens, in-suite laundry) are minutes from Hermann Farm and downtown tasting rooms—perfect for a pre-event glam-up and an easy post-event return.


  • Comfort & character: spacious suites with period charm and modern amenities


  • Effortless logistics: Transport to and from The Mercantile by Hermann's Lyft U Up Rides, so you don't have to drive, and you can relax and savor pairings.


  • Morning reset: Katy Trail strolls, coffee, and brunch in Hermann


  • Transport to and from: The Mercantile by Hermann's Lyft U Up Rides, so you don't have to drive, and you can relax and savor pairings.




After Hours Dinner Magic: Bonfire Recap by the Katy Trail


Bring the evening back to The Mercantile. Weather permitting, gather for a quiet bonfire under the stars to compare tasting notes, favorite courses, and auction highlights.



Tips for Attendees & Prospective Guests


  • Buy Early — Ticketed events always sell out quickly. As soon as the announcement hits, reserve your spot.


  • Dress Thoughtfully — Smart casual with flair is a safe bet. You’ll mingle with wine professionals—style counts.


  • Brush Up on Wine Topics — Having a few questions or talking points (e.g. recent vintages, terroir of Missouri vs Old World regions) can help you meaningfully engage.


  • Set a Budget for the Auction — It’s easy to get carried away bidding on a rare bottle. Decide beforehand what your maximum is.


  • Bring a Wine App or Tasting Journal — Document your favorite pairings, tasting notes, and impressions.


Ready to Go?


Get event updates and tickets as soon as they’re announced, then book your suite at The Mercantile on the Katy Trail to stay close to the action—and the after-talk.

 
 
 

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