“Picking” is the key word for September because it is harvest time for vineyards in eastern Kansas and western Missouri. The wineries invite wine lovers and the curious to come out and pick grapes.

Sunday morning is reserved as picking time at Holy-Field Vineyard and Winery in nearby Basehor. Pick grapes, watch them being processed, taste varied wines, and enjoy a farm meal. The event is free of charge, and reservations are required. For more information: go to http://holyfieldwinery.com or call 913-724-9463. Basehor is about 30 miles northwest of Tallgrass Creek.

For information on Kansas wineries go to http://kansasfarmwineries.org, which includes a Northeastern Kansas Wine Trail. For information on Missouri wineries go to www.missouriwine.org. Some area vineyards suffered losses from the late frost last spring, so be sure to check the grape availability before visiting.