Two decades ago, most people never heard of Colorado Wine Country. but in recent years, Colorado wines have been holding their own in prestigious competitions.

Most operations are small, family-owned estates.

During Prohibition, the wine industry died in Colorado. in 1978, Colorado Mountain Vineyards (now Colorado Cellars) opened for business. others followed – slowly. by 1990, there were nine wineries and by 2000, there were about 30. then came the explosion.

in the past seven or eight years, that figure has more than doubled, says Doug Caskey, executive director of the Colorado Wine board. Now there are about 80, most producing decent, sometimes award-winning, vintages. in the past decade, “Colorado wines have hit a new level of maturity,” Caskey says.

WINE HAS BECOME CAUSE

FOR CELEBRATION

Western oenophiles mark their calendars for sept. 17-20 when the Colorado Mountain Winefest overflows the Grand Junction area. Last year, more than 6,000 people attended the annual celebration, where more than 50 Colorado wineries poured their best vintages for tasting.

the main event is always on the saturday in Palisade’s riverbend Park, with a grape-stomping contest, culinary demonstrations, gourmet food and artisans’ booths. on other days, there are jazz concerts, workshops and winemaker dinners all around the Grand Junction area, as well as a golf tournament and fly-fishing excursion.

HEART OF WINE COUNTRY

the largest enclave of Colorado vineyards and wineries is in the Grand Junction area on the Western slope.

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Like Napa Valley, the Grand Valley has developed dining, lodging and attractions to complement the wine theme, as well as offering its own natural Colorado twist.

Visitors take self-guided wine tours, stopping at local wine-tasting rooms to sample their wares, tour wine-making operations, and check out the gift shops.

to really immerse yourself in the wine-country experience, consider spending a night at two rivers Winery, near Grand Junction. besides being a lovely spot with great views of both the book Cliffs and the Colorado National Monument, the winery is secluded and quiet. the Chateau has several beautiful guest rooms. A gourmet breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace overlooking the vineyard.

While at two rivers, sample their award-winning cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, riesling and port.

Near Palisade, consider stopping at an enclave of four award-winning wineries with tasting rooms.

established in 1978, Colorado Cellars is the

far left the book Cliffs serve as a backdrop for one of the many wineries near Palisade, just east of grand Junction. visitors should take time to explore the area’s wineries and other attractions.