You don’t have to travel to California’s Napa or Sonoma Valleys to experience some truly unique wines and vineyard experiences anymore. Right here in Colorado, we are fortunate to have a variety of winemakers who are blending locally grown as well as imported grapes to create one-of-a-kind varietals.

From Western Slope vineyards to Front Range wine entrepreneurs who are blending and producing amazing offerings, oenophiles have a wide range of truly local wines. These indefatigable business owners have worked tirelessly to promote Colorado winemaking and eliminate the stigma often associated with non-coastal grapes.

The quest for flavorful wine options and perfect fusions are paramount for Colorado’s winemakers who are finally making a mark in the industry. While winemaking began on the Western Slope back in the 1880s, it wasn’t until the turn of the 21st century that the state started to see an impact from viticulture. Over the last 10 years, there has been a marked improvement in the quality of Colorado wines, proven by steady recognition and awards.

There are two designated viticulture regions in Colorado: the Grand Valley, a 30-mile valley in western Colorado that includes Grand Junction, Fruita, and Palisade, and the West Elks in Delta County, concentrating production in Cedaredge, Hotchkiss, and Paonia.

All these growers have seen their stock rise over the years by creating distinctive wines which in turn has created a new avenue of tourism into their respective communities. Tours of vineyards and production facilities, the opening of tasting rooms, and wine dinners hosted by Colorado winemakers has had a significant impact on Colorado’s economy.

According to a recent economic impact study, wine production, distribution and sales, and wine tourism in 2019 supported—through direct, indirect, and induced activities—a total economic impact of $162.3 million in business revenues, 1,360 jobs, and $59.5 million in labor income (including supplemental benefits). These activities supported estimated total state and local fiscal revenues of $8.5 million.

Accolades from nationally recognized publications and highly respected wine connoisseurs have helped solidify the economic importance of the state’s wine industry. In November of 2018, Wine Enthusiast rewarded Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park with a 90-point ranking for the winery’s 2016 Mourvèdre — an honor that came one month after the highly regarded site JamesSuckling.com awarded Snowy Peaks’ 2016 Elevé 92 points, according to an article in the Denver Business Journal. The winery offers a true taste of Colorado with its own handcrafted wines as well as offerings from some of Colorado’s boutique wineries.

Denver Business Journal further reports that “Wine Enthusiast called the Grand Valley one of the top 10 wine getaways in the world in 2018, and USA Today readers chose the Palisade-Grand Junction area one of the 10 best wine regions in the country. Food + Wine magazine ranked Denver’s Infinite Monkey Theorem as one of the 10 best urban wineries in America. And Robert Parker Wine Advocate graded three wines at 90 points or higher while declaring the state’s sector to be “increasingly interesting.”

Colorado’s viticulture benefits from high levels of solar radiation, and steady irrigation creates standout Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Syrahs, and Cabernet Sauvignon. In Paonia, another emerging area for growing grapes, Rieslings, Pinot noir and Gewurztraminer are the favored varieties.

We strongly encourage all Coloradans to enjoy some locally sourced wines this holiday season. Put aside your allegiances to California and French wine, and any preconceived notions: It’s likely you’ll be pleasantly surprised and delighted by the body and flavor of our Colorado grapes.

And don’t forget to try out Denver’s intimate wine bars that offer a broad spectrum of wines from around the world!

Here are a few of Usaj Realty’s top choices of wineries and wine bars. This is a great time of year to check out these wonderful local establishments and buy a unique Colorado wine sampler for  your favorite connoisseur.

Colorado Winemakers/Local Winemakers of California, Imported Grapes

Snowy Peaks

Situated in Estes Park, the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this little lion of a winery has been instrumental in showcasing Colorado wines and hand-crafting their own concoctions, producing magnificent wines. They offer a wide selection of varieties made from Colorado-grown grapes including Merlot, Syrah, Viognier, and Riesling. Three years ago, both Wine Enthusiast and JamesSuckling.com gave the winery 90+ point ratings on Snowy Peaks’ wines. Over the years, owner Candace Mohr has been relentless in promoting Colorado wines and her efforts have not gone unnoticed as Colorado continues to make its mark on the wine industry.

292 Moraine Ave., Estes Park

Infinite Monkey Theorem

Like Snowy Peaks Infinite Monkey Theorem has helped elevate the Centennial State’s prowess in the often stuffy industry. “No Vineyard, No Pretense” continues to be their mantra as this urban winery produces canned (Gasp! Yes canned) and conventional bottled wine. Infinite Monkey Theorem wine is made in urban warehouses in the RiNo Denver neighborhood and on the East Side of Austin, Tex. Grapes are predominantly sourced from the Western Slope of Colorado and High Plains of Texas. The results are top notch, well-respected and deliciously accessible wines. Food + Wine Magazine has ranked Infinite Monkey Theorem as one of the top 10 urban wineries in the nation.

3200 Larimer St., Denver

Sutcliffe Vineyards

An outlier in more ways than one, this iconoclast Colorado winemaker outside of Cortez not only has staying power but has gathered more accolades than any other Colorado vineyard. Located outside both the Grand Valley and West Elks growing areas, Sutcliffe is used to blazing its own trail and has been for the last 30 years. They produce 4,000 cases per year and have earned a reputation for creative and succulent wines. Check out their special events and amusing levels of wine club memberships.

12174 County Rd G, Cortez

Attimo

After living abroad in Italy, Jon and Megan Schlegel decided to bring a piece of the Piedmont region to Denver. Thus, Attimo (‘moment’ in Italian) was born. The imported Italian grapes are processed and bottled right here in Denver. From Barolo to Dolcetto, enjoy wonderful Italian wines without needing a passport. Their great staff keeps customers coming back, and a magnificent wine club allows you to enjoy the wine in the comfort of your own home. The restaurant is fabulous — enjoy small plates on up to full on entrees, all served with that special Italian flair.

2246 Larimer St., Denver

Bigsby Folly 

This fun and whimsical winery in Denver receives shipments of grapes from the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, and transforms them into sensational pours that keep customers coming back. By using high-quality California grapes and then expertly crafting the product into high-quality wines, you’ll enjoy a taste of California right here in Colorado without the attitude. Owners Chad and Marla Yetka take a joyful approach to their winemaking and are committed to the highest standards in artisan winemaking.

3563 Wazee St., Denver

Blanchard Family Wines

Located in the popular Dairy Block, this family-owned winery is overseen by brothers James and Mark Blanchard. Their dream of producing fine artisan wine has come to fruition right here in Denver and showcases Sonoma County grapes. Their boutique wines are low-production and limited in availability which equates to high quality in every bottle. You’ll find these techniques employed produce stellar and choice wines that are best enjoyed with friends and family. In addition to enjoying. Sip your favorite selection with their extraordinary charcuterie plate or scrumptious desserts.

1855 Blake St., Denver

Best Denver Wine Bars

Neighbor’s Wine Bar

Tucked away in the Park Hill neighborhood, this establishment is a friendly spot with plenty of ambiance and charm. Offering an extensive wine list and much more, Neighbor’s pride itself on a variety of pours and food. Everything from small plates to savory cheeses and meats, to panini and desserts can be found on their extensive menu. Featuring a wonderful bar and lovely patio, Neighbor’s is a perfect spot to explore new wines in the middle of one of Denver’s most popular neighborhoods.

2202 Kearney St., Denver 

Trellis Wine Bar

With a dizzying assortment of reds, whites, sparkling and rose, this charming small business is full of personality and captivating flavors. Operated by two women, Ilona Botton and Alisha Stoltz, the two left corporate careers to launch their dream of owning a neighborhood wine bar. Sensational small plates of delectable eats provide the perfect complement to an exquisite glass of wine. You’ll love happy hour at Trellis which features ½ off their wines by the glass, Monday through Friday from 4-5 p.m. Trellis also offers a number of events throughout the year so be sure to check out their calendar.

2868 Fairfax St., Denver

Sunday Vinyl

Offering an extensive wine list and an impressive atmosphere and music, this Denver gem feels more like an entertainment venue! Inspired by the tradition of European wine bars, Sunday Vinyl provides the perfect escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Offering a glimpse of by-gone days with a classic horseshoe bar, Sunday Vinyl is the perfect space for meeting with friends after work. You’ll be struck by the sensational floor to ceiling glass cellar display that  boasts an extensive but carefully curated wine selection. Soulful music (expertly selected by Vinyl Me Please) plays on bespoke turntables and hand-built speakers. Sunday Vinyl is brought to you by the Frasca Hospitality Group, which includes Frasca Food and Wine, Pizzeria Locale and Tavernetta.

1803 16th St., Denver