Rooted in Colorado
When most people think of Colorado, they think of the soaring Rocky Mountains, epic ski resorts, and miles of terrain to be explored on foot or by bike. Not rolling vineyards. But tucked away on the western side of the state lies one of our best-kept secrets: Colorado wine country.
In fact, the Western Slope is home to nearly all the vineyards in the state. And it’s not by accident. Between the climate, soil, elevation, and other factors, the region provides everything needed for a flourishing wine industry. And while Colorado wines might still be under the radar compared to Napa or the Willamette Valley, they’re earning national attention for their quality and innovation.
One of the few outliers is Blendings at the Hillside Vineyard in Fort Collins, which grows its own grapes on-site. The vineyard's three cold-hardy grape varieties include the Marquette, Louise Swenson, and Frontenac Blanc, alongside Aronia berries. These grape varieties are specifically chosen for their resilience to Colorado's challenging climate, especially our harsh winters.
And if you're ever out on the eastern plains near Fort Morgan, don't miss hidden gem, County Road Vines and Wines. This small, family-owned vineyard makes small batch wines, including a variety of dry, sweet, and dessert style wines.
Where to Uncork Colorado
Now, if you're ready to hit the road, wine country is calling. Here's our list of Western Slope vineyards for you to explore.
- 5680' Vineyards, Paonia
- Alfred Eames Cellars (Puesta del Sol), Paonia
- Avant Vineyards, Palisade
- Blendings at the Hillside Vineyard, Fort Collins
- Blue Beryl Winery, Palisade
- Bookcliff Vineyards, Palisade + Boulder Tasting Room
- Carboy Winery at Mt. Garfield Estate, Palisade
- Carlson Vineyards, Palisade
- Colorado Cellars, Palisade
- Colterris Winery, Palisade
- County Road Vines and Wines, Fort Morgan
- Fox Fire Farms, Ignacio
- Grande River Vineyards, Palisade
- Guy Drew Vineyards, Cortez
- Maison La Belle Vie Winery, Palisade
- Painted Vineyard, Paonia
- Peachfork Orchards and Vineyard, Palisade
- Restoration Vineyards, Palisade
- Sauvage Spectrum Estate Winery, Palisade
- Sutcliffe Vineyards, Cortez
- Varaison Vineyards & Winery, Palisade
- Whitewater Hill Vineyards, Grand Junction
*Some tasting rooms may not be open yet for the summer season. Check websites for dates.
Why the Western Slope for Wine
The sunny side of the state is the heart of Colorado’s winemaking scene. From the climate to the soil, here's what makes the region prime for wine.
1. The Perfect Microclimate for Grapes
Wine grapes are picky. They thrive in areas with the right combination of sun, temperature swings, elevation, and well-drained soils. The Western Slope—particularly the Grand Valley and North Fork Valley—offers all of that in abundance.
Thanks to the region’s high desert climate, the area sees more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Warm days help grapes ripen and develop sugars, while cool nights preserve acidity, creating a natural balance that winemakers love. Elevations between 4,000 and 7,000 feet also add a unique twist, making Colorado one of the highest wine-producing regions in the world.
2. Shelter from the Mountains
The towering Rockies act as a natural barrier, shielding the Western Slope from extreme weather that can hit the Front Range and Eastern Plains. This protection helps extend the growing season just enough to support a variety of grapes—Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Riesling, and even lesser-known varietals like Viognier and Tempranillo.
3. Rich, Rocky Soil
What might seem like challenging soil for farming turns out to be ideal for wine grapes. The arid, rocky terrain on the Western Slope forces vines to dig deep for water and nutrients, resulting in grapes that are smaller, more concentrated, and full of character—perfect for crafting complex, flavorful wines.
4. A Strong Agricultural Legacy
The Western Slope has a deep-rooted agricultural history, especially in fruit growing. Palisade peaches are famously sweet, and apples, cherries, and apricots have long flourished here. This agricultural know-how laid the groundwork for grape growing, and many of today’s vineyards are run by multigenerational farming families who saw the potential to expand into winemaking.
5. A Growing Wine Tourism Scene
The towns of Palisade, Grand Junction, and Paonia have become destinations for wine lovers seeking a slower pace, stunning views, and locally made wines. The Colorado Wine Country experience is refreshingly down-to-earth—you’re just as likely to sip wine in a tasting room overlooking the vines as you are to chat with the winemaker themselves.
Plus, the scenic byways, bike-friendly routes, and proximity to national parks and hot springs make the Western Slope an ideal wine getaway.
