A Wine Oasis in Palisade, Colorado

With our Utah episode wrapped and a newfound confidence in our filming abilities, we set our sights on Colorado, the third stop on our Southwestern wine loop. Palisade, nestled near Grand Junction, held a special significance for us, having visited a decade prior with my late grandmother. Back then, the region's wine scene was a mixed bag of sweet fruit wines and fledgling vinifera attempts. While promising, it was clear they had a long way to go. That being said, wine in Palisade, Colorado is beginning to have a solid reputation.

This time, however, we were eager to witness their progress. A five-hour drive from Cedar City landed us in Grand Junction in the early evening. While we typically aimed for shorter driving days, sometimes the itinerary demanded a bit more road warrior spirit.

We checked into the Maverick, a charming hotel conveniently located on the Colorado Mesa University campus. A wave of nostalgia washed over us as we realized a family friend's son had once graced these very grounds as a star basketball player. We chuckled, imagining their surprise at our unexpected stay.

Dinner on the rooftop was a revelation. The panoramic city views and a menu featuring a selection of wild game – a rarity in Arizona – delighted us. I seized the opportunity to savor a bison ribeye, expertly paired with a local Cabernet. While not my favorite expression of the varietal, the experience embodied the unique flavors of Northern Colorado, which is what I was really seeking.

Refreshed and energized, we embarked on our Palisade wine adventure. BookCliff Winery, with its award-winning reputation, topped our list. Having traversed this region numerous times, I envisioned our intro filmed along the majestic Colorado River that courses through the landscape. We found the perfect spot, capturing the essence of the region before heading to the winery.

It didnt go without notice that since our last visit Palisade has blossomed into a veritable wine oasis. Over 30 wineries now dot the landscape, their vineyards clinging to the sun-drenched slopes. These aren't just local favorites anymore; Palisade wines are claiming prestigious awards on the national stage, a testament to their dedication and the region's unique terroir. While this burgeoning wine region has come a long way, there's a palpable sense of ambition in the air. Palisade is on the rise, and its future in the world of wine is brimming with potential.

BookCliff's tasting experience was a delightful surprise. Embracing the natural beauty of its surroundings, they offered a unique outdoor tasting experience. Armed with a flight and a carrying rack, we ascended a grassy knoll overlooking the vineyards and the namesake Bookcliff mountains. The view was simply breathtaking.

Despite Mrs. Kay battling a slight ailment, we absorbed the moment, capturing footage amidst the comfortable outdoor setting. The wines, thankfully, lived up to their accolades.

As the afternoon drew to a close, we found a winery sign near the vineyards for our outro. With our Palisade adventure successfully documented, we hit the road once again, this time bound for Denver. Another five-hour drive lay ahead, but the promise of a stationary day in the Mile High City awaited us tomorrow.