This Rocky Mountain State Is Known for Outdoor Adventure but It's Hiding a Lesser-known Wine Region

"Wine grapes have been grown in the Centennial State since 1890, but production wasn't in full swing until the late 1970s. Now, there are over 150 wineries spread throughout Colorado, and the state plays host to events such as the Colorado Governor's Cup and festivals like the Colorado Mountain Winefest. About 80 percent of all of Colorado's grapes are sourced from the Grand Valley American Viticultural Area, located between Grand Junction and Palisade, in the state's Western Slope. Clearly, something amazing is happening out there."

"At first glance, Colorado seems like an unusual place to grow wine. Here, vignerons must contend with harsher climates, higher altitudes, and constantly fluctuating temperatures-but that's only pushed growers to be more creative. Many have cultivated cold-hardy varietals that also grow well in hot, warm desert climes. The growing seasons are shorter here, but the combination of hot, sunny days, whipping mountain winds, 6,800 feet of elevation, and rocky alkaline soil makes for a truly interesting and unique terroir."

Wine grapes have been grown in Colorado since 1890, with production expanding substantially in the late 1970s and now supporting over 150 wineries statewide. About 80 percent of Colorado's grapes come from the Grand Valley American Viticultural Area between Grand Junction and Palisade. The state hosts competitions like the Colorado Governor's Cup and festivals such as the Colorado Mountain Winefest. Growers face harsher climates, higher altitudes, and fluctuating temperatures, which has driven innovation and the cultivation of cold-hardy varietals that also tolerate warm desert conditions. Hot, sunny days, strong mountain winds, high elevation, and rocky alkaline soils create a distinctive Colorado terroir.

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