Visit these destinations where fruit has been turned to liquid gold

By Emily Baker

When searching for the perfect wine in Colorado, a trip to Palisade is likely in order. Known for delicious fresh fruits, it’s no wonder that in Palisade one can find a wine or beverage for almost any palate. Whether you’re looking for a small family-run operation, the oldest wine producers in Palisade or a flavorful array of fruit wines, this list will help you find what you’re looking for.

Colorado Cellars

With the extensive list of wineries in Palisade growing ever longer, it can be hard sometimes to decide where to start. You can’t go wrong, though, by visiting possibly the oldest winery in the area, Colorado Cellars. Originally founded in 1978, Colorado Cellars’ brand also encompasses Rocky Mountain Vineyards and the Orchard Mesa Wine Company. Emphasizing minimalist processing and revolutionary winemaking techniques that are now employed across the region, Colorado Cellars is certainly worth the visit.

Grande River Vineyards

After over 35 years in the business, it’s no surprise that Grande River Vineyards is reputed as the “premier estate-grown wine producer.” Specializing in Bordeaux and Rhone style wines, Grande River Vineyards has won countless awards for their product. Setting them apart further is the Live in the Grapevines concert series. Back by popular demand, every other week through the summer and early fall you can enjoy live music and tasty wines in their beautiful location at the base of the western Little Book Cliffs.

Vines 79 Wine Barn

Known for its iconic location and dry flavorful wines, Vines 79 may just be a 2-acre vineyard, but this family-run business is not to be missed. Situated on what was historically dubbed Section 79 of the Vinelands is a thriving grape vineyard from the early 20th century that was resurrected decades later. Today, Vines 79 honors that history with its Wild West-themed bottles including the Buffalo Rose rosè and the Trails End Tempranillo. Stop by their Tasting room for a sip or a fun seasonal cocktail.

The Storm Cellar Winery

There’s very little that is more refreshing on a hot Colorado day than a cool crisp glass of white wine or rose. Look no further than the family-owner Storm Cellar winery in Hotchkiss. Husband and wife team Steve Steese and Jayme Henderson, bring a wealth of experience from their time in the wine industry and extensive travels through wine regions around the globe to specialize in whites and roses. Pay a visit to the winery for one of their many events year round, or if you aren’t able to make it to the Western Slope, their wines also can be found online.

Talbott’s Cider

Since 1907 the Yeager family has been furthering their mission to “produce value from the land” through their fruit, wines, and now cider with their newest venture, Talbott’s Cider. Cider flavors range from dry, to spicy, to pumpkin spice and everything in between. Made from apples, pears, peaches, grapes, and more, you’ll be able to find a favorite for just about any drinker no matter how picky or adventurous. Visit their taproom in person, order online here, or find their cans in a store near you.

Sauvage Spectrum

Young in age, but not in skill, Sauvage Spectrum aims to be the new breed of Colorado wineries. Focusing on homegrown product and experimental blends, Sauvage is the brainchild of winemaker Patric Matysiewski and grapegrower Kaibab Sauvage. In just four short years, Sauvage Spectrum has already been lauded with countless awards. The prowess with which they have taken the winemaking scene by storm is nothing short of savage. Learn more, schedule a tour or order wines here.

Chill Switch Wines

Life can move pretty fast, but when coming out to wine country you can slow down and “flip the chill switch” as they’d say at Chill Switch Winery. Chill Switch prides themselves on the all-natural minimal processing style of winemaking. Using only local grapes, and made without additives, or animal-based filtering or fining tools. Wines are aged for 18-30 months before being ready for consumption. Pop by the winery in Cedaredge for a tasting or visit liquor stores statewide to purchase a bottle closer to home.

Carlson Vineyards

When a passion project becomes a full-blown success and business, you get Carlson Vineyards. Under new ownership since 2015, the winery is still committed to maintaining its roots and the quality of the Carlson brand. While the wine speaks for itself, one thing that sets Carlson vineyards apart is the Wren Quinn project. Named after owner Garrett’s two daughters, each month proceeds from a purchase of bottles from the Wren Quinn series are donated to a one of many different charities and community organizations in the area. Even the website is catered to building community, including a list of recipes from various events at the vineyard.

Peachfork Orchards and Vineyard

A quality wine would not be its best without quality fruit, and that is at the core of Peachfork’s philosophy. Growing apples, pears, peaches, and grapes, Peachfork is a staple of what draws any taste-lover to Palisade. As the diversity of fruit would suggest, you aren’t limited to a grape wine here. Fruit wines from all of the Peachfork produce are must tries. Wednesday through Monday afternoon and evening, you can swing by the winery for a taste. More information about the fruit and wine can be found at peachfork.com.

This article is in the September-October issue of our print magazine. Click here to read the full magazine online.