Best 13 Wineries in Colorado: Discover the Top Vineyards in the Centennial State
Colorado boasts a thriving wine industry with numerous wineries and vineyards scattered throughout the state. From the Grand Valley AVA to the Front Range, Colorado’s diverse landscape and climate provide a unique terroir that produces exceptional wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual wine enthusiast, Colorado’s wineries offer a wide range of varietals that are sure to please any palate.
With over 140 wineries and vineyards in Colorado, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. From award-winning wineries like Plum Creek Cellars to up-and-coming craft meaderies like Honnibrook Craft Meadery, there’s something for everyone. Visitors can take a leisurely drive through Colorado’s scenic wine country, stopping at tasting rooms and enjoying the breathtaking views along the way. Many wineries also offer tours and special events, making for a fun and educational experience.
Regions Famous for Wineries
Colorado is home to several regions famous for their wineries. Each region has its unique characteristics and produces distinct wines. Here are some of the top regions in Colorado known for their wineries:
Palisade
Palisade is one of the most famous regions in Colorado for wineries. It is located on the Western Slope and is known for its fertile lands, which are ideal for growing grapes. The region has a warm climate and a high elevation, which makes it perfect for producing high-quality wines. Some of the most popular wineries in Palisade include Colterris Winery, Carlson Vineyards, and Peach Street Distillers.
Western Slope
The Western Slope is a vast region that spans several counties in Colorado. It is known for its stunning landscapes, which are dotted with vineyards and wineries. The region has a cold climate, which makes it ideal for growing grapes that produce crisp and refreshing wines. Some of the most popular wineries in the Western Slope include Black Bridge Winery, Mesa Park Vineyards, and Stone Cottage Cellars.
Grand Junction
Grand Junction is a city located in the heart of the Western Slope. It is known for its scenic beauty and is home to several wineries that produce some of the finest wines in Colorado. The region has a warm climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce rich and bold wines. Some of the most popular wineries in Grand Junction include Two Rivers Winery, Red Fox Cellars, and Whitewater Hill Vineyards.
Boulder
Boulder is a city located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is known for its vibrant culture and is home to several wineries that produce unique and flavorful wines. The region has a cool climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce elegant and complex wines. Some of the most popular wineries in Boulder include Bookcliff Vineyards, Settembre Cellars, and Balistreri Vineyards.
Grand Valley AVA
The Grand Valley AVA is a designated American Viticultural Area located in Mesa County. It is known for its diverse soils and microclimates, which produce a wide range of grape varieties. The region has a warm climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce full-bodied and robust wines. Some of the most popular wineries in the Grand Valley AVA include Canyon Wind Cellars, Garfield Estates Vineyard and Winery, and Meadery of the Rockies.
North Fork Valley
The North Fork Valley is a region located in Delta County. It is known for its scenic beauty and is home to several wineries that produce some of the finest wines in Colorado. The region has a cool climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce crisp and refreshing wines. Some of the most popular wineries in the North Fork Valley include Azura Cellars and Gallery, Leroux Creek Vineyards, and Stone Cottage Cellars.
West Elks
The West Elks is a region located in Delta County. It is known for its rugged terrain and is home to several wineries that produce unique and flavorful wines. The region has a cool climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce elegant and complex wines. Some of the most popular wineries in the West Elks include Terror Creek Winery, Alfred Eames Cellars, and Leroux Creek Vineyards.
Delta County
Delta County is a region located in the Western Slope. It is known for its fertile lands and is home to several wineries that produce some of the finest wines in Colorado. The region has a cool climate, which makes it perfect for growing grapes that produce crisp and refreshing wines. Some of the most popular wineries in Delta County include Black Bridge Winery, Stone Cottage Cellars, and Azura Cellars and Gallery.
Noteworthy Wineries
Bookcliff Vineyards
Bookcliff Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing premium wines since 1999. The winery uses traditional winemaking techniques to create wines that are expressive and complex. Bookcliff Vineyards offers a wide range of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s award-winning wines in the tasting room, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
Website: http://www.bookcliffvineyards.com/
Address: 1501 Lee Hill Dr UNIT 17, Boulder, CO 80304, United States
Carlson Vineyards
Located in Palisade, Carlson Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing award-winning wines since 1988. The winery uses locally grown grapes and fruit to create unique and flavorful wines. Carlson Vineyards offers a wide range of wines, including Cherry ‘n Chocolate, Riesling, and T-Red Lemberger. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: http://www.carlsonvineyards.com/
Address: 461 35 Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, United States
Stone Cottage Cellars
Stone Cottage Cellars is a boutique winery located in Paonia, Colorado. The winery specializes in small-batch wines made from locally grown grapes. Stone Cottage Cellars offers a wide range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open on weekends.
Website: https://www.stonecottagecellars.com/
Address: 41716 Reds Rd, Paonia, CO 81428, United States
Infinite Monkey Theorem
Infinite Monkey Theorem is a winery located in Denver that produces wines in cans and kegs. The winery uses locally grown grapes to create unique and flavorful wines. Infinite Monkey Theorem offers a wide range of wines, including Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: http://theinfinitemonkeytheorem.com/
Address: 3200 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205, United States
Colorado Cellars
Colorado Cellars is a winery located in Palisade that has been producing wines since 1978. The winery uses locally grown grapes and fruit to create unique and flavorful wines. Colorado Cellars offers a wide range of wines, including Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: https://coloradocellars.com/
Address: 3553 E Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, United States
Red Fox Cellars
Red Fox Cellars is a winery located in Palisade that produces wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Syrah. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: https://redfoxcellars.com/
Address: 695 36 Rd, Palisade, CO 81526, United States
Buckel Family Wine
Buckel Family Wine is a winery located in Gunnison that produces small-batch wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open on weekends.
Website: http://buckelfamilywine.com/
Address: 1018 CO-135 Unit B, Gunnison, CO 81230, United States
Monkshood Cellars
Monkshood Cellars is a winery located in Buena Vista that produces small-batch wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open on weekends.
Website: N/A
Address: 107 Williams Street, Minturn, CO, US, 81645
Carboy Winery
Carboy Winery is a winery located in Littleton that produces wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: https://www.carboywinery.com/locations/littleton
Address: 6885 S Santa Fe Dr, Littleton, CO 80120, United States
Azura Cellars
Azura Cellars is a winery located in Paonia that produces small-batch wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open on weekends.
Website: http://azuracellars.com/
Address: 16764 Farmers Mine Rd, Paonia, CO 81428, United States
Snowy Peaks Winery
Snowy Peaks Winery is a winery located in Estes Park that produces wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Syrah. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: http://www.snowypeakswinery.com/
Address: 292 Moraine Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States
Whitewater Hill Vineyards
Whitewater Hill Vineyards is a winery located in Grand Junction that produces wines made from locally grown grapes. The winery offers a wide range of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of the winery’s wines in the tasting room, which is open daily.
Website: http://www.whitewaterhill.com/
Address: 220 32 Rd, Grand Junction, CO 81503, United States
Vino Salida Wine Cellars
Vino Salida Wine Cellars is truly a hidden gem right in the heart of Colorado’s stunning Rocky Mountains. This charming little winery is all about crafting wines that capture the essence of this beautiful region. They take their commitment to sustainable and organic farming seriously, resulting in some truly exceptional grapes and a diverse range of wines to satisfy both wine aficionados and those just looking to enjoy a good glass.
Website: http://www.vinosalida.com/
Address: 10495 Co Rd 120, Poncha Springs, CO 81242, United States
Types of Wines
Merlot
Merlot is a red wine that is known for its softness and fruitiness. It is one of the most popular wines in the world and is grown in many regions, including Colorado. Merlot is often blended with other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, to create a more complex wine.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a red wine that is often used in blends, particularly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It is known for its spicy and herbaceous flavors and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Syrah
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a red wine that is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor. It is often aged in oak barrels to give it a smoky and spicy flavor. Syrah is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Port
Port is a fortified wine that is typically sweet and rich. It is often served as a dessert wine and is made by adding brandy to the wine during the fermentation process. Port is not commonly produced in Colorado.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine that is known for its full-bodied flavor and high tannins. It is often aged in oak barrels to give it a smoky and spicy flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular wines in the world and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a white wine that is known for its buttery and oaky flavor. It is often aged in oak barrels to give it a creamy and rich flavor. Chardonnay is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris, also known as Pinot Grigio, is a white wine that is known for its light and crisp flavor. It is often served chilled and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Riesling
Riesling is a white wine that is known for its sweet and fruity flavor. It is often served chilled and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Malbec
Malbec is a red wine that is known for its dark and fruity flavor. It is often blended with other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, to create a more complex wine. Malbec is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine that is known for its crisp and refreshing flavor. It is often served chilled and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Petite Sirah
Petite Sirah is a red wine that is known for its dark and full-bodied flavor. It is often blended with other red wines, such as Syrah, to create a more complex wine. Petite Sirah is not commonly produced in Colorado.
Shiraz
Shiraz, also known as Syrah, is a red wine that is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor. It is often aged in oak barrels to give it a smoky and spicy flavor. Shiraz is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Petit Verdot
Petit Verdot is a red wine that is often used in blends, particularly with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It is known for its dark and full-bodied flavor and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Teroldego
Teroldego is a red wine that is known for its dark and fruity flavor. It is often blended with other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, to create a more complex wine. Teroldego is not commonly produced in Colorado.
Cabernet Franc Reserve
Cabernet Franc Reserve is a red wine that is often aged in oak barrels to give it a smoky and spicy flavor. It is known for its complex and full-bodied flavor and is grown in many regions, including Colorado.
Winery Tours
Winery tours are a great way to experience the beauty and taste of Colorado’s wineries. Visitors can take a guided tour, participate in a wine tasting, or take a wine tour to learn more about the wine-making process.
Guided Tour
Guided tours are an excellent way to experience the wineries of Colorado. These tours offer visitors a chance to learn about the wine-making process and the history of the winery. A knowledgeable guide will lead visitors through the vineyards and the production facilities, explaining how the grapes are grown, harvested, and processed into wine. Visitors will also learn about the different types of wine and the best food pairings for each.
Wine Tasting
Wine tastings are a great way to sample the different wines produced by the wineries of Colorado. Visitors can sample a variety of wines and learn about the different flavors and aromas. A knowledgeable guide will explain the characteristics of each wine and suggest food pairings. Visitors can also purchase bottles of their favorite wines to take home.
Wine Tour
Wine tours are a fun and educational way to learn about the wine-making process. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and production facilities, learning about the different types of grapes and the wine-making process. A knowledgeable guide will explain the different stages of wine production, from the harvesting of the grapes to the bottling of the wine. Visitors can also participate in a wine tasting and purchase bottles of their favorite wines.
Unique Aspects of Colorado Wineries
Fruit Wines
Colorado wineries are known for their unique fruit wines, which are made with a variety of fruits including peaches, cherries, and apples. These wines are often sweeter than traditional grape wines and are perfect for those who prefer a fruitier taste. Some wineries even offer fruit wine blends, which combine different fruits to create a one-of-a-kind flavor.
Organic Practices
Many Colorado wineries use organic practices to grow their grapes and produce their wines. This means that they avoid using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and instead rely on natural methods to protect their crops. By using organic practices, these wineries are able to produce high-quality wines that are free from harmful chemicals.
Handcrafted Wines
Colorado wineries take great pride in their handcrafted wines, which are made in small batches using traditional methods. These wines are often aged in oak barrels, which gives them a unique flavor and aroma. By using traditional methods, these wineries are able to create wines that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Estate Grown Wines
Many Colorado wineries grow their own grapes on their estate, which allows them to have complete control over the quality of their wines. These estate-grown wines are often more complex and flavorful than wines made with grapes from other regions. By growing their own grapes, these wineries are able to create wines that are truly unique to their region.
Canned Wines
Colorado wineries are also known for their canned wines, which are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. These wines are often made with the same high-quality grapes as traditional bottled wines but are packaged in convenient and lightweight cans. Canned wines are a great way to enjoy a glass of wine while enjoying the great outdoors.
Overall, Colorado wineries offer a unique and diverse selection of wines. Whether you prefer fruit wines, organic practices, handcrafted wines, estate-grown wines, or canned wines, there is sure to be a winery in Colorado that meets your needs.