Alpine Bank presents the 28th annual Colorado Mountain Winefest, and as is typical for this popular event, the festival is sold out. But no need to “wine!” There are plenty of ways to savor all things grapes and vines during Grand Junction’s Wine Week. From September 16 through the 22, experience wine pairings, special events, and affordable lodging deals!
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The Redlands Mesa Golf Club was voted the #1 course to play in Colorado by Golfweek, and when you visit during Wine Week, you can play all 18 holes and enjoy teeing off on the immaculate greens with the dramatic backdrop of Colorado National Monument towering over you. After a round, stop by Ocotillo, the golf club restaurant for the Wine Week Feature – a three-course meal with wine pairings from Talon Winery for $65 per person.
626 on Rood in Grand Junction’s downtown is known for two things - its masterfully prepared cuisine highlighting locally sourced and seasonally fresh ingredients, and for having an expertly curated wine selection. 626 on Rood is so exceptional that this charming small-town restaurant received a write up in Wine Spectator. During Wine Week, expand your palate with $20.00 wine flights. Also, enjoy hand-stuffed grape leaves picked from the orchards of nearby Two Rivers Winery.
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The Zesty Moose in Downtown Grand Junction is devoted to creating flavorful recipes, spices, seasonings, and everything else you need to create healthy meals that are free of preservatives but packed full of flavor. Zesty Moose is also home to the Shiras Winery Tasting room, so you can sip, shop and relax! And when you buy two bottles of wine, you'll receive $5.00 off a Charcuterie Board. There's no better way to elevate your next dinner party than a visit to the Zesty Moose to stock up on quality spices, olive oil, barrel aged balsamic vinegars and unique cheeses.
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Even though Colorado Mountain Winefest is sold out, there are also plenty of wine events you can still partake in. Quench your thirst and uncork your inner artist with a session at the Palette for an evening of wine and painting. While there are different art themes each night, on September 19, you can follow along with helpful instructors to create your very own version of the 2019 Colorado Mountain Wine Festival poster, all while you enjoy wine from Grand Junction's local wineries. On the 18th, you can sip and paint Starry Wine, your very own rendition of Starry Night with a fun wine-themed twist.
Spend an evening dining with spectacular views of Colorado National Monument at The Chateau at Two Rivers Winery. On September 20, the Chateau will be hosting their 17th annual Winemaker’s Dinner, a unique event highlighting their award-winning wine, served with an expertly prepared five-course meal, designed to pair perfectly with a variety of vintages chosen specifically for this special experience.
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Peach Street Distillers is one of Colorado's oldest distilleries, and they've dedicated themselves to creating some of the best spirits - bourbon, vodka, gin, and brandy. While they might not be in the wine game, they still like to celebrate the Colorado Mountain Winefest. On September 22, head to Peach Street for Sip and Stretch Yoga. If you don’t have your own yoga mat, you can borrow one for the morning and after a refreshing asana, sip on cocktails the good folks at Peach Street have created especially for the occasion.
If you’ve ever wanted to see what goes into growing some of the best wine grapes in the state, and some would argue the country depending on the grape, then taking the Intro to Grape Growing class might be perfect for you. State viticulturists will go over everything that goes into the art of growing grapes, from site selection to pruning. They’ll also cover some of the risks and challenges involved with growing grapes in the temperate climate of Grand Junction.
Wine Down
If you’re looking for a place to stay, Grand Junction has plenty of affordable lodging to choose from. During Wine Week, call the Holiday Inn & Suites Grand Junction airport location, or the Candlewood Suites to make your reservation and mention “Cabernet,” for either hotel, to receive a complimentary bottle of wine when you stay three or more nights. While you’re in town, you can also explore a full list of restaurants offering special tastings in celebration of the 27th Colorado Mountain Winefest. So, what are you waiting for, start planning your trip now!
Discover more ways to spend a day or two in Grand Junction starting on page 16 of the Grand Junction Visitor Guide.
