Thirst Colorado -- September-October, 2024

SERVING UP THE COLORADO EXPERIENCE

San Juan Wanderlust From ancient homes to the tops of 14ers

Plus:

Wineries making big strides Women brewing great beer The rebirth of Colorado-grown apples

Vol. 9, No. 6 September-October 2024

Into Savings

28th Street and Pearl, Boulder Hazelsboulder.com Download the Hazel’s app

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e publish more stories than we can fit into each print issue.

Visit ThirstColorado.com (or point your smartphone at the QR code) to see these stories and much more, including our weekly events roundup, food and drink recommendations, ticket giveaways and more.

CURIOSITIES ON THE TRAIL

Kristian DePue offers a primer on Colorado oddities, including a hike to an infamous gunslinger’s gravesite and a century-long coal fire. Also, what’s up with Denver’s airport?

Publisher Paul Johnson paul@thirstcolorado.com Associate Publisher & Editor Joe Ross joe@thirstcolorado.com Vice President, Sales Scott Kaplan Sales Linda Battle, Rebel Becker, Nina Gunther, Alexandra Smith, Christine Werner Design & Layout Sandy Birkey Stacey Krull President & Founder Emeritus Wilbur E. Flachman Digital & Marketing Manager Steve Graham Editorial Assistant Johnny Burkin Editorial Interns Brianna Corrine, Adair Teuton Contributors John Garvey, Kristen Kuchar, Malena Larsen, Jay McKinney, Eric Peterson, Rebecca Toy For advertising and editorial information, please contact Joe Ross at 303.428.9529 or email joe@thirstcolorado.com

AN ANNIVERSARY TOAST

For the Colorado Trail’s 50th birthday, the Colorado Trail Foundation partnered with 17 breweries across the state to raise awareness and funds for the trail’s maintenance. Find out what they crafted and what’s being said of the partnership.

INCLUSION ON STAGE

Learn more about Denver’s Phamaly Theatre Company, the longest running disability-affirmative theater in the U.S., which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year with an eclectic season of shows.

Proud member of the Colorado Brewers Guild Thirst Colorado is produced by The Publishing House, a division of Colorado Word Works, Inc. The Publishing House also produces Colorado’s Performing Arts Publications, serving arts venues along the Front Range.7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, Colorado 80030 303.428.9529

Drink up life in large amounts, but restrict your alcohol consumption. We do not endorse or support excessive drinking.

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Thirst Colorado is published six times a year by The Publishing House, 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, CO 80030. © The Publishing House, 2024. All rights reserved.

Printed in the U.S.A. Except where noted, the content of Thirst Colorado is the property of the magazine and should only be reprinted with permission. Thirst Colorado is not responsible for false or misleading claims made in advertising or editorial materials published herein. Thirst Colorado Magazine is distributed in part by DJM Distribution, Inc., and Community Racks Distribution, LLC.

CONTRIBUTORS JOHN GARVEY Garvey is a storyteller, freelance writer, illustrator and nerd. He has written for dozens of lifestyle magazines, business publications, and blogs, including Entrepreneur, ColoradoBiz, InnovatioNews, and Thirst Colorado. A Northern Colorado resident, dad, and artist, one of John’s strangest and most notable accomplishments is completing a drawing a day for the entire year of 2023. That creative practice that taught him far more about the human mind than he had expected.

You can see John’s writing at clippings.me/johngarvey. His art is at CreativeFollies.com and @CreativeFollies.

KRISTEN KUCHAR Kuchar has written about travel and the beverage industry for 15 years in a variety of national and local publications.

For Thirst, she primarily covers food, wine, cider, beer and other beverages. She has contributed to VinePair, Zymurgy, The Beer Connoisseur, Craftbeer.com, Beer Advocate, Brew Your Own, All About Beer, DRAFT and dozens more.

Currently, she is a Certified Cicerone Beer Server and has a Level 1 Wine Certification with the Wine & Spirits Education Trust, and she continues to pursue further wine and beverage education.

MALENA LARSEN

Larsen is a writer and Minnesota-to-Colorado transplant. Her favorite subjects to write about are craft beer, outdoor adventures, and any topic where she gets to learn something new. In her free time, she enjoys trail running, taking photos of mountain goats, and checking out breweries with her pals.

JAY MCKINNEY McKinney is a Colorado native who grew up south of Denver in Sedalia. In 2020, he graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Shortly after, he began contributing to Thirst Colorado. He is passionate about promoting the Colorado lifestyle and the independent craft businesses that make the state a magnet for creative people. During his free time, he enjoys playing golf, shooting pool and hiking throughout Colorado and neighboring Utah.

ERIC PETERSON Peterson is a freelance writer who covers travel, business and real estate as well as Colorado’s craft beverage industry.

In his spare time, he likes to create hard listening music, oddball art and psychedelic videos. Eric lives in Denver with his wife, Jamie, and their faithful mutts, Aoife and Ogma.

REBECCA TOY Toy is a freelance writer who covers wine, spirits, beer, travel, history – anything with passionate people doing inspiring things. She has contributed to National Geographic, Wine Enthusiast, Fodor’s Travel and others.

September-October 2024

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THIRST COLORADO | September-October 2024 EXPERIENCES

12 Southwestern shenanigans The San Juan mountains and surrounding areas are loaded with experiences

grows 18 Aintree Montezuma Restoration project helps bring back apple orchards in Four Corners area

8 12

28 Events guide

This comprehensive calendar will keep you busy throughout the fall

32 Prime pairing

Make a classic shrimp scampi, and match it with a Colorado wine

36 35th anniversary

Denver’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s kicks off Sept. 21 with high hopes

38 Weed-friendly camping Campground provides comfortable environment for responsible partakers

a glass 40 Raise to the ladies Women are brewing some of the finest craft beer in the state On the cover:

Million dollar views from the Million Dollar Highway in the San Juan mountains.

22 40 Distillery, Winery, 44 Brewery, Cidery and Meadery Guide

Find great craft beverages wherever the adventure takes you

SNEHIT PHOTO - stock.adobe.com

36

SPEAKING VINICULTURE

8 Better with age

26 Winning wines

22 Conservation ingenuity

34 Characters

State’s wine industry attracts more enthusiasts with better wine, experiences

Pioneering sustainable practices is part of the evolving wine industry

6 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

The Governor’s Cup shines light on award-winning Colorado wines

Meet some of the folks who keep the craft scene charging forward

Order “one of everything.”

Your dining escape awaits tucked away in the pines of Black Hawk.

Savor every flavor with award-winning restaurants where you can discover tastes as bold as your laugh.

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Vines 79 Wine Barn Photo by Ryan Burke, Slate Communications

GETTING BETTER WITH AGE The Colorado wine industry continues to evolve

By Jay McKinney

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C

olorado may not have the reputation (yet) of California’s viticultural industry, but wine grapes have been grown in the Centennial State for more than a century and the industry has only expanded over the years. Prohibition essentially halted the state’s wine production but after a revival in the 1960s, wine now contributes more than $300 million to the economy.

The Western Slope has become a legitimate tourist destination for wine lovers and Colorado’s picturesque vineyards consistently produce great fruit. Outside of the vineyards, wineries have also made their way to the Front Range and other parts of the state where grapes aren’t grown. The winemakers who make it all possible have seen immense growth and changes through the years but quality over quantity is still paramount when it comes to production.

One industry veteran who has left his mark across the state, is Ben Parsons, founder of the Ordinary Fellow Winery in Palisade.

The winery gets its name from an old pub in Kent, England, where Parsons hails from and it is his latest winemaking endeavor after being in the industry since the early 90s. He obtained an enological degree in South Australia. He then applied for a winemaking job at Canyon Wind Cellars in Palisade and moved to Colorado in 2001. At the time Parsons didn’t even realize Colorado had a wine industry, but he was intrigued by the opportunity.

Through his time as a winemaker in Colorado, Parsons has worked with Sutcliffe Vineyards in Cortez, and he also founded the Infinite Monkey Theorem in Denver before moving back to Palisade to launch the Ordinary Fellow. With Infinite Monkey Theorem, Parsons pushed the envelope and sparked the urban winery craze when it became the first winery to can its product. Since then, other wineries have followed suit in an effort to make the beverage more casual and accessible. While Parsons has been immersed in the industry and seen it grow considerably, he still considers Colorado’s wineries more intimate than other areas.

“When I first moved here there were 36 wineries in Colorado and now there’s around 160 on any given day,” Parsons says. “The industry has definitely grown, but it hasn’t grown that quickly. It’s still small and niche, family owned and operated, and everyone’s got a good story. It’s going to be more intimate and less corporate when customers come out to visit because they’re talking to the owner. They want to have a conversation and they want an experience and I think Palisade and the Western Slope in general offers that.”

Palisade’s family-owned Wine Country Inn is a perfect example.

It opened in 2008 and offers guests a premier Western Slope getaway with 80 rooms, luxurious amenities and incredible food and wine pairings. The Tally family owns the inn as well as Grande River Vineyards that shares the property.

Before purchasing Grande River Vineyards, the Tallys operated the hotel as a neutral space that promoted all the wineries on the Western Slope. The hotel now primarily serves wine made on site at Grande River Vineyards, but co-owner Anne Tally says they still embrace the “all for one, one for all” mentality and offer other Colorado wines. Each winery’s success is a win for the entire industry and Tally always looks to recommend other wineries when interacting with her hotel guests.

“Since we opened the hotel, every year seems to be better and new people are discovering the industry,” Tally says. “There are still people who have lived in Colorado for a really long time and they’re just discovering that Colorado has a wine industry. I would say probably close to 80 percent (of hotel guests) are Colorado residents. Our weekends fill up faster than anything else and most of our reservations are generally from the Front Range.”

While the Front Rangers may be fueling the tourism industry on the Western Slope, Tally believes the tourists coming from elsewhere value Colorado’s off-the-beaten-path wine scene and exceptional quality of wines.

Joe Buckel of Buckel Family Wine in Gunnison is proud of the quality of wine coming out of Colorado and sees it as a result of two opposing reasons. On the one hand, Buckel says it starts in the vineyard and he credits the Grand Valley’s history of agriculture and the farmers who emphasized soil health and proper farming practices when growing peaches, cherries and other crops. This laid the groundwork for high-quality grapes and a thriving viticultural industry. However, Buckel also believes Colorado wine has September-October 2024

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Colorado wine in general is improving every year and the perception of that fact is growing. The art of winemaking in Colorado will always be limited in quantity but not in quality.

— Alfred Eames, owner Alfred Eames Cellars

Photo courtesy of Alfred Eames Cellars improved because of the increasing number of winemakers with formal training.

“I’m not sure how many people were formally trained or had done time in other wine regions, but it was definitely few and far between when I got here in 2009,” Buckel says. “There’s been a lot more people coming from different places in California, so the winemaking techniques are getting more sound. It’s not just people saying, ‘I want to make wine’ and going out and starting to do it. It’s actually people that were professionally in the industry and taught by really good people and brought really good systems and processes with them.”

Buckel is speaking from experience, having worked at three different wineries in Sonoma and attending Napa Valley College for formal education in enology. He’s thankful of his time in California and the education he received but he’s also quick to credit the winemaking program at Colorado Mesa University, which has been instrumental in teaching the next generation of winemakers. The combination of factors has raised the bar for the Colorado wine industry and it will continue to do so, according to Buckel.

A degree in enology and formal training at an established winery certainly can’t hurt a winemaker’s ability, but there is still great wine being made by self-taught amateurs. Juliann Adams owns Vines 79 Wine Barn in Palisade and made wine for nearly 15 years as an amateur before her colleagues told her she needed to go commercial with her product.

“It’s a huge leap to go from amateur to commercial, and you really have to know that you have that support behind you,” Adams says.

“This community is a very strong network and so I knew that if there was anything I needed, I could call anybody and find an answer.”

Vines 79 Wine Barn opened in 2020, but Adams has been immersed in the Western Slope wine scene for years and believes it has evolved. In the 1980s and 1990s, she says there were a lot more

10 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

fruity and sweet wines and now there are more dry red wines and sparkling wines being produced. According to Adams, there’s also been an increase in unique processing methods such as pétillant naturel (pét-nat) which means “naturally sparkling” in French and involves bottling the wine before the initial fermentation has finished.

While winemakers may be experimenting with an ancient technique like pét-nat to appease shifting taste preferences, certain wineries have also looked to the future and begun planting hybrid and cold hardy varietals that suit the climate of Colorado. Adams is optimistic about the potential of these varietals, but Vines 79 is currently sticking with the traditional European varietals cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and syrah because the winery has formed its identity around dry reds made with these grapes.

Regardless of where a vineyard is located, Colorado weather can be unpredictable and potentially devastating. The struggles that growers grapple with in the Grand Valley are often more extreme in Colorado’s second and only other American Viticultural Area, the West Elks AVA. With the elevation of the West Elks AVA being nearly 1,000 feet higher, the winters can be harsher than the Grand Valley and therefore the vines are more susceptible to problems. According to Alfred Eames of Alfred Eames Cellars in Paonia, the tradeoff is that with favorable conditions, the fruit can be exceptional. Eames made his first wine in 1972 but opened Alfred Eames Cellars in 1999 when there were only three wineries in the valley. Now there are 12.

He agrees with Adams that Colorado wine drinkers have started to crave more sophisticated wines than they used to.

“When we first came here a lot of people would ask me if I had any sweet wines,” Eames says. “They’re people that were used to country wines that grandpa made, and they were generally sweet wines. That was the taste in the rural country, but that has changed.

There’s a lot more people that like a good complex dry wine.”

Eames has seen the West Elks AVA and the Colorado wine industry as a whole evolve into a reputable region for the beverage. From professional winemaking practices to a heightened importance on wine’s space in the culinary world, Colorado wine has only gotten better and will continue to do so.

“Colorado wine in general is improving every year and the perception of that fact is growing,” Eames says. “The art of winemaking in Colorado will always be limited in quantity but not in quality. The industry may not grow much in volume: There is simply not enough space or water. But it will continue to grow in excellence.”

Jay McKinney grew up in Sedalia and graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. During his free time, he enjoys playing golf, shooting pool and hiking throughout Colorado and neighboring Utah.

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EXPLORING THE SAN JUANS AND BEYOND What to expect in Colorado’s rugged playground

By Malena Larsen

T

he San Juan Mountain Range stretches from the Lake City area to the Chama River in New Mexico. This range formed through volcanic activity less than 30 million years ago—in geology standards, that’s pretty recent! Due to the range’s “youth,” rock type, and volcanic origins, these peaks appear more jagged than other mountain ranges in the state.

From the aggressive jutting peaks of Jagged Mountain to the tabletop-esque Uncompahgre Peak, each bit of topography in this area makes its own mark against the Colorado sky. Within the unique mountains, the area also offers a plethora of experiences for visitors. Get ready to travel along scenic highways, explore ghost towns and thriving mountain communities, conquer mountains, and get a glimpse of Indigenous history.

DRIVE THE MILLION DOLLAR HIGHWAY This highway was reported to cost a million dollars per mile to build, which is where it gets its name. This 25-mile scenic byway winds through the San Juan Mountains between Ouray and Silverton.

The Million Dollar Highway has no shortage of views, but if you’d like to ogle at the scenery, consider using one of the many pull-offs. There are no guardrails and it’s crucial to pay close attention when traveling on this road.

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VISIT THE NUGGET MOUNTAIN BAR This rustic mountain bar is just down the road from the Purgatory Ski Resort north of Durango. This makes it a perfect après-ski spot during the colder months.

However, The Nugget Mountain Bar is a good time yearround. Have a local brew at the bar while enjoying some live music. And if you’re hungry, there’s a permanent food truck serving fries, sliders, salads and more.

EXPLORE MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK This national park is not in the San Juan Mountain Range.

However, they are neighbors, separated by canyons. If you’re already in the Durango area, this is well-worth the approximately hour-long trip southwest in the Four Corners region.

JimGlab - stock.adobe.com.

Above: Fall aspen near Ridgway Inset: Photo courtesy of The Nugget Mountain Bar near Purgatory Ski Resort Upper right: Million Dollar Highway

Craig Zerbe - stock.adobe.com.

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PixelRay - stock.adobe.com.

Hike a 14er The San Juan Mountain Range has 14 peaks above 14,000 feet, ranging from beginner to expert terrain. So, before you head out to tackle one of these San Juan beasts, do some research and prepare adequately.

Ensure you know the risk level of your 14er approach and that you’re in appropriate physical condition to tackle it. Pack all necessary gear, download maps or bring paper maps, and consider inviting a hiking buddy to go along with you.

THE 14 FOURTEENERS OF THE SAN JUAN MOUNTAIN RANGE Uncompahgre Peak Mount Wilson El Diente Peak Mount Sneffels Mount Eolus Windom Peak Sunlight Peak Handies Peak North Eolus Redcloud Peak Wilson Peak Wetterhorn Peak San Luis Peak Sunshine Peak

Top: Mesa Verde National Park Lower left: Uncompahgre Peak, photo by Malena Larsen Lower right: El Diente Peak . .com dobe

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14,308’ 14,252’ 14,165’ 14,157’ 14,090’ 14,088’ 14,065’ 14,058’ 14,045 ‘ 14,041’ 14,023’ 4,021’ 14,022’ 14,007’

Mesa Verde National Park was established in June of 1906. The area was home to the ancestral Pueblo people for over 700 years.

According to the park website, “Today, the park protects the rich cultural heritage of 27 Pueblos and Tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past.”

Remember, you will need a national park pass to enter.

Additionally, the park is known for its cliff dwellings. If that’s something you’re interested in, be sure to make reservations for the dwellings you want to see in the park.

Along with hiking and cliff dwellings, the park is ideal for stargazing. Mesa Verde National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, which means it has been certified for its commitment to preserving and protecting nighttime darkness. The park isn’t open overnight, so consider securing a campsite to experience the sky – just like the ancestral Pueblo people did so many years ago.

Where to stay when visiting Mesa Verde National Park • Morefield Campground. This spot offers 267 campsites in a canyon setting four miles inside the entrance of Mesa Verde. Like most established campsites in Colorado, reservations should be made well in advance of visiting.

• Far View Lodge. This is the only hotel that’s actually inside Mesa Verde. The rooms do not have televisions or air conditioners.

• Ramble at Mesa Verde National Park. Ramble is about a 14-minute drive to the park entrance. It offers bike rentals, entertainment and spacious campsites.

• Ancient Cedars RV Park. You’ll find this spot directly across from the park entrance, surrounded by ancient cedar trees.

• Bright Star Campground. This Cortez campground offers standard tent sites, RV hookups, and unique rentals like tipis, cabins and yurts.

Have a sweet treat at San Juan Soda Co. San Juan Soda Co. is a Lake City staple. The building dates back to the 1870s and originally served as the town’s pharmacy. Now, the old building is as lively as ever with a gift shop full of trinkets, an antique malt mixer and a bar, perfect for enjoying your sweet treat of choice. San Juan Soda Co. offers espresso drinks, soda, sundaes, shakes, malts and more.

Travel back in time to Animas Forks The ghost town of Animas Forks is about 12 miles from Silverton and sits at a whopping 11,200 feet. The first structures were built in 1873 and only three years later, Animas Forks became a flourishing mining community. They even had a newspaper called the “Animas Forks Pioneer.” However, the brutal winters and the declining mining industry overpowered the community and the town was deserted by the 1920s.

pabrady63 - stock.adobe.com.

Top Right: San Juan Soda Co., photo by Malena Larsen Inset: Photo courtesy of Ramble at Mesa Verde National Park Lower right: Animas Forks

Visitors can now step back in time and explore unrestricted access to the buildings that still remain. Driving to Animas Forks from Silverton is only possible in the summer and it is recommended that you travel in a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle.

To some people, happiness is enjoying an old-fashioned milkshake in a historic building. To others, it’s taking on a grueling hike alongside Mother Nature’s unpredictability. Whatever your style may be, the San Juan Mountains offer something for every type of adventurer.

From stargazing to view-packed highways, it’s time to head south and enjoy the ride through this youthful and breathtaking mountain range.

Malena Larsen is a writer and Minnesota-to-Colorado transplant. Her favorite subjects to write about are craft beer, outdoor adventures, and any topic where she gets to learn something new. In her free time, she enjoys trail running, taking photos of mountain goats, and checking out breweries with her pals.

September-October 2024

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MONTEZUMA’S COMEBACK The number of Colorado orchards is growing again

By Eric Peterson

A

century ago, the apple boom was in full swing in Montezuma County. The home of Mesa Verde in southwestern Colorado had a high enough elevation and dispersed enough orchards to stave off the codling moth that decimated apple trees on the Front Range and Western Colorado in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

At the peak, there were about 5,000 acres of orchards in Montezuma County, producing several million bushels of apples a year. As of the early 2000s, the county’s apple acreage had dwindled to a little more than 100.

In the years between, Washington state took over as the nation’s apple powerhouse, and many of Montezuma County’s orchards were abandoned. Some, like Bill Russell’s 10-acre orchard at his home in Lebanon, just west of Dolores, are still producing.

As the founder of Mountain Sun Juice, he latched onto the county’s apple-growing legacy in the early 1970s before opening a juice factory in Dolores in 1981. “Back in the ‘70s, there were a lot of orchards, probably 10 times as many as there are now,” said Russell, who sold the since-shuttered Mountain Sun in 2000.

The growth of hard cider is catalyzing a reversal of fortune, because the elevation makes for a more acidic fruit that cider makers covet. “They get sweet, but they have acid in them,” Russell said. “Apples grown at a lower elevation, especially red delicious, they get sweet, but they don’t have any acid.”

Russell credited Jude and Addie Schuenemeyer, the founders of the Montezuma Orchard Restoration Project (MORP), for “sparking the interest” of locals. “It’s got some legs again,” he said.

The married couple transitioned from wildland firefighting to running a nursery in Cortez in the early 2000s. The Schuenemeyers quickly learned about the rich apple history in Montezuma County. “We realized a lot of what was on the county fair records didn’t exist anymore,” Jude said.

Established in 2008, MORP grew out of that epiphany. “Our mission is to preserve Colorado’s fruit-growing heritage and restore the orchard culture and economy in the southwest region,” Jude said. “We want to preserve every old cultivar that we can find here or that we know grew here.”

That’s about 500 different kinds of apples. “Of that number, half of those are considered extinct now,” Jude said. “There are some we’ve lost completely, and we hate that.”

Jude estimated there are now about 10,000 old trees in the county. “The orchards are filled with these rare cultivars, because we do tree-by-tree mapping of old orchards and we’ve been able to do a lot of DNA studies on cultivars we find. We’ve come up with 100 EsoTerra’s Jared Scott atop a loaded tree.

Photo by Elizabeth Philbrick, EsoTerra Ciderworks

September-October 2024

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Marla and Jared Scott working the press.

Photos by Elizabeth Philbrick, EsoTerra Ciderworks Photo courtesy of Bountiful Ridge Farm

or 150 rare cultivars, some of them so rare they’re the last tree or last couple trees left around, a lot of which we don’t know what they are.”

To preserve the local legacy, MORP’s 36-acre Orchard Hub has six acres with about 100 rare cultivars. “Hopefully in the next year or two, we can get another eight acres planted. It’s just getting funding,” Jude said. MORP also owns a mobile juice press to help orchard owners like Rick Goodall monetize their crop.

A third-generation apple grower, Goodall has five sons who help him with the harvest at his 20-acre Bountiful Ridge Farm in Arriola. “I was raised in an orchard, so I’ve been in the fruit business all my life,” Goodall said. “My grandfather moved here in the early 1900s and started planting trees when the irrigation developed, then my dad picked up on it.”

Things got tough in the ‘70s as Washington state’s industry boomed. “They had the new varieties, the Red Delicious,” Goodall said. “We had the old varieties, and those just weren’t very popular with the grocery stores.”

Montezuma County’s apple economy withered in the face of the Red Delicious onslaught. Packing lines and co-ops shut down, and many farms converted orchards to alfalfa fields, which are less laborintensive but need much more water.

Due to the difficulty of picking 30-foot-tall giants, Goodall is planting trellised trees to ease his labor needs at Bountiful Ridge. In his mind, it’s the right time to invest in modernization. “I can see a rebound in the apple industry,” he said. “We really need to jump on this and make it something bigger.”

Both Goodall and Russell sell apples to a pair of Montezuma County cideries, Fenceline Cider in Mancos and EsoTerra Ciderworks in Dolores.

The husband-and-wife team of Jared Scott and Elizabeth Philbrick founded EsoTerra, which began operating out of the old Mountain Sun facility in 2019. They opened a Durango tasting room in 2023.

About five years before the launch, Jared would go running all over Montezuma County and noticed a bounty of apples rotting on the ground. That planted the seed for EsoTerra.

EsoTerra uses only apples — and no sugar or other flavors — in its artisanal ciders. Its recipes feature uncommon varietals like Snow White crabapples and red-fleshed Mountain Rose apples, and most of the fruit is local. “We handpick apples from over 50 different

20 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

landowners,” Philbrick said.

While many orchards have met the business end of a bulldozer in recent years, the EsoTerra team, along with MORP and others, have helped plant about 3,000 new trees in the last few years.

Scott and Philbrick are also personally planting trees on a 70-acre property they recently bought.

“We’re now close to doubling the amount of trees in these two counties [Montezuma and La Plata], and what’s going to happen is there’s going to be a glut of fruit,” Philbrick said. “It takes five to 15 years to get fruit off those trees, so this is not increasing our industry today. This is a promise for the future.”

Her lofty goal? “I want us to be the Napa Valley of cideries.”

Eric Peterson is a freelance writer who covers travel, business, and real estate as well as Colorado’s craft beverage industry.

In his spare time, he likes to create hard listening music, oddball art, and psychedelic videos. Eric lives in Denver with his wife, Jamie, and their faithful mutts, Aoife and Ogma.

Photo by Elizabeth Philbrick, EsoTerra Ciderworks

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COLORADO WINERIES BRING INGENUITY TO CONSERVATION Maison La Belle Vie vineyard.

Photo by Jadson Gir

Far from just checking off an eco-conscious box, Colorado wineries blend classic sustainable practices with frontier enterprise

By Rebecca Toy

22 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

G

lass bottles cover the riverside beach at the Aspen Peak Cellars in Bailey just southwest of Denver – and their team is proud of what they’ve created.

Fear not, wine lovers. This is no muddy bank strewn with debris. Instead, the winery uses a machine that crushes glass bottles into safe-to-touch pieces within seconds. The team sifts out bigger pieces for driveway repairs, and the finely ground, sandy remains are heaped along the North Fork of the South Platte for tasting patios under tiki umbrellas, adding beach vibes to this quintessential Colorado river scene.

“Creating our own in-house recycling program with direct results to show was very intriguing to us,” says Marcel Flukiger, coowner with his wife of Aspen Peak Cellars. For this Swiss-American chef couple, adding the crush machine in the spring of 2020 was Aspen Peak’s most recent step to tackle glass, but not its first.

Since 2009, the winery has recycled tasting room bottles for reuse, reclaiming a quarter of the bottles they produce yearly.

Colorado wine is climbing, rising in production and quality, and gaining national attention for doing what the state does best – pulling off elevated feats. Deeply drawn to this terrain, it’s no surprise producers across the state join the broader industry’s conscientious drive to protect natural resources through land management. But Colorado’s frontier spirit permeates the wine world, and these are some of the producers who go beyond the eco-conscious standard with innovative – and sometimes consuming – commitment.

WATER ON THE WESTERN SLOPE Maison La Belle Vie – Palisade Vineyards have long relied on flood irrigation, dousing vineyards with thousands of gallons of water from river canals.

For days, the onslaught soaks the land, but it also loses water to evaporation and pulls nutrients through erosion. Every drop counts across the state’s Western Slope, which relies on the precious and nationally contested Colorado River.

Maison La Belle Vie partnered with the National Resources Conservation Service to try something different for its 4.5 acres of grapes. This summer, the family-run vineyard will have a new pump, water lines, and microjets, preserving the river and land by targeting vines more efficiently with less water.

“As the Colorado River is being threatened by climate change, we want to do our part to help,” says owner Nicholas Games.

The French-inspired winery applies plenty of can-do attitude, running an onsite restaurant with ingredients from sustainable, local growers and ranchers and shipping wine with recycled and decomposable boxes.

approaching mindful agriculture as a solution to climate change. “It’s not about creating something that’s less horrible,” says Thibodeaux. “It’s about creating something that has real lasting impact.”

The team manages four vineyards – two previously abandoned – with principles from a range of sources, including Frank Hubert’s Dune. The sci-fi saga draws parallels in the Colorado Plateau, with ever-present water scarcity and conservation.

Biodynamics is about fluid adaptation, and Aquila Cellars keeps their team close to the ground, tending the vineyards by hand and adjusting techniques for the lowest intervention.

“We work with the highest vineyards in North America in one of the coldest growing regions in the world,” describes Thibodeaux.

HELPING COLORADO FARMERS

NATURAL COLORADO WINE

Photo by Geoff Crumbaugh

Carboy Winery – Denver, Littleton, Palisade, Breckenridge As the biggest name in Colorado’s wine game, Carboy Winery puts its resources back into the state. With locations from the Front Range to Palisade, the company applies a range of solutions.

Carboy plants hardy grape varietals and uses micro sprinklers and drip irrigation to make the most of the land with the least water. The Palisade location uses a “greywater” system to recycle water used in wine production back to the vineyards. Carboy also brought 300-gallon tanks and kegs into their tasting rooms, saving over 750,000 bottles and corks.

But Carboy’s reach extends beyond its operations as a participant in the global 1% for the Planet movement, where partners give at least one percent of their proceeds to environmental organizations. Carboy stays local, supporting Zero Foodprint with its Restore Colorado campaign. “When you spend your money at Carboy, you’re helping Colorado farmers,” says Barbie Graham, Carboy tasting room supervisor.

DUNE-INSPIRED BIODYNAMICS Aquila Cellars – Paonia Co-founder Brandt Thibodeaux is quick to clarify: he and the team at Aquila Cellars are not dogmatic about biodynamics at their West Elks winery. But this isn’t just a team of winemakers adding sustainable practices; Aquila Cellars is passionate about

Balistreri Vineyards – Denver “Natural wine” is a buzzy and contested term in the wine world, viewed by some as a marketing gimmick to cover flaws.

Others point to the benefits of ancient practices that don’t add yeast, sulfites, dyes, clarifiers or reducers. For the Balistreri family, natural wine means making it the same way their family did after immigrating from Italy: good grapes, thoughtful farming practices, minimal intervention in the cellar.

“You can taste it,” says Ray Domenico, operations leader and grandson of the winery founder. “Folks who enjoy our wines notice a difference in our unmanipulated wine, and that’s something we’re proud of.”

Sustainability at Balistreri starts with their small batches: bigger production means more water for clean-up. Solar panels fuel the expanded Denver property with natural energy throughout the year. But Domenico points to a larger network of responsible growers in Colorado’s Grand Valley. While the taxes and fees of certification may not be worth it for many that Balistreri works with, farmers and vineyards practicing organics are looking out for the state.

“We want to make Colorado wine with Colorado-grown grapes and champion the region and its terroir.”

Rebecca Toy is a freelance writer who covers wine, spirits, beer, travel, history – anything with passionate people doing inspiring things. She has contributed to National Geographic, Wine Enthusiast, Fodor’s Travel and others.

September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 23

Visit our tasting room and restaurant Qutoriwines.com

24 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

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AWARD-WINNING WINES, INCREDIBLE GIFT SHOP, BEAUTIFUL VIEWS...

Located just 12 miles east of the Royal Gorge, The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey is on the historical grounds of the Holy Cross Abbey in Cañon City, CO. Open Daily for Wine Tasting & Sales 10 am - 6 pm Monday - Saturday • 12 pm - 5 pm Sunday (January-March 10 am to 5 pm) Order Online at abbeywinery.com 3011 E. Highway 50, Cañon City, CO | 877-HCA-Wine (422-9463)

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ThirstColorado.com 25

WINNING WINES

Governor’s Cup winners raising the bar and a glass

By Jay McKinney

W

inemakers might not set out to win awards when they pour their heart and soul into a vintage, but they certainly appreciate the recognition when they are feted. The Governor’s Cup is Colorado’s most prestigious wine industry award and when a wine wins over the sommeliers, writers and other wine professionals who judge the event, a celebration is in order.

Similar to other competitions across the country, Governor’s Cup winners are awarded different levels of medals. Double Gold is the most prestigious, followed by gold, silver and bronze. To win a Double Gold, a panel of judges must unanimously award a wine a gold medal in the preliminary round of judging, or there must be a majority of gold medal votes in the sweepstakes round.

In Estes Park, Snowy Peaks Winery has had multiple wines featured in Governor’s Cup selections, with the most recent winners being the 2019 Élevé and the 2022 Muscat Blanc, which won Double Gold and gold in 2023. The Élevé is a Rhone-style blend that includes syrah, petite sirah and mourvedre grapes from the Grand Valley. While grenache would be a more traditional grape for this style of wine, the winemakers opted for petite sirah as a substitute because there isn’t much grenache grown in Colorado.

As for the Muscat Blanc, Snowy Peaks Winery co-owner Candice Mohr says there isn’t much of that grown in Colorado either, but it makes an amazing wine with floral and fruity aromas of peach and apricot. The Muscat Blanc made by Snowy Peaks is on the sweeter side, which really enhances the fruity flavors.

“It’s a huge honor to be among the best wines in the state,” Mohr says. “The Governor’s Cup competition is a great

Photo by Kal Makin

26 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Photos courtesy of Carboy Winery

opportunity for us to see how we compare to other wineries and to experience how the wines in Colorado have improved in quality each year. The publicity we receive from being selected for the collection is invaluable and really helps to give our wines credibility among wine lovers.”

Bookcliff Vineyards in Boulder has a lengthy list of awards earned in various competitions. Every award is an honor but it’s special to have won the Governor’s Cup in multiple years, including most recently when it won a Double Gold in 2023 for a 2022 syrah.

“Unlike other competitions that involve wine from all over the world, this competition allows us to showcase our wines against our peers in the Colorado wine industry,” says co-owner and CEO Jordan Dickard. “It is an honor to be recognized as having one of the best wines in the state and allows us to further our company mission of showing the world that Colorado can make world-class wine.”

Bookcliff is one of the wineries that bridges the Rocky Mountains. The grapes are grown in the shadow of the towering book cliffs in Palisade, but the wine is produced in Boulder. There is also a tasting room at the vineyard, but the winery’s Front Range location helps bring Colorado wine to a wider audience.

“The Palisade region and the Front Range are both critical pieces of the Colorado wine industry,” Dickard says. “Without

the unique terroir and climate of Palisade and the Grand Valley, we would not be able to grow world-class grapes. Without the customer base of the Front Range, we would not have enough customers to sell the great wine the industry makes. The fact that we have a presence on both sides of the mountains allows us a unique ability to be a part of both parts of the industry. By making wine on the Front Range, we are able to show more and more customers the amazing fruit produced in the state.”

Carboy Winery is a powerhouse when it comes to Colorado wineries, with locations in Palisade, Denver, Breckenridge and its original tasting room and production facility in Littleton. While a Governor’s Cup medal might not boost its reputation the way it would a small family-owned winery, it lets the winemakers know they are on the right track.

In 2022 Carboy had three wines win Governor’s Cup medals: the 2019 Petit Verdot, 2020 Teroldego, and 2019 Blanc LaLaLa (sparkling Grüner Veltliner).

“I don’t know if it necessarily spikes sales because we’re pretty fortunate that we are a pretty busy winery as it is. But, because of the publicity that comes with it, we saw a spike in people coming in and asking for Teroldego,” says Carboy Winery CEO Kevin Webber. “You definitely get a quick boom of business for it, but overall, the Governor’s Cup is just a good reminder to the general public that we have a wine industry in Colorado.”

The 2024 Governor’s Cup judging was held in August and a public tasting will be held on Nov. 1 at History Colorado Center.

All the winning wineries deserve the recognition that follows as they boost the state’s reputation for wine. Try them at the public tasting or consider a Governor’s Cup award-winning wine for the upcoming holiday season.

Jay McKinney grew up in Sedalia and graduated from the Metropolitan State University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications.

During his free time, he enjoys playing golf, shooting pool and hiking throughout Colorado and neighboring Utah.

Photo courtesy of Snowy Peaks Winery

September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 27

FALL EVENTS GUIDE SEPTEMBER GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 1-2 THE BLACK FEATHERS, The Lariat, Buena Vista, Sept 2-7 GLASS ANIMALS, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 3-4 COLORADO SYMPHONY: BRASS & PERCUSSION AT MCGREGOR SQUARE, Denver, Sept 4 DENVER FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL, Auraria Campus, Sept 4-7 “ERMA BOMBECK: AT WIT’S END,” Garner Galleria Theatre, Sept 4-22 WALLOWS, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 5 CRYSTAL VISIONS - FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE, Center for the Arts Evergreen, Sept 6 THE DISCO BISCUITS, Dillon Amphitheater, Sept 6 THE NATIONAL PARKS, Strings Music Festival, Steamboat Springs, Sept 6 LINDSAY LOU, Big B’s Orchards, Hotchkiss, Sept 6 MARIACHI SOL DE MI TIERRA, Levitt Pavilion, Denver, Sept 6 BIG RICHARD, Mishawaka Amphitheatre, Bellvue, Sept 6 ARNA MILLER EXHIBIT, A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art, Trinidad, Sept 6-Oct 3 LIVE FROM LAUREL CANYON: JAMES & JONI, Lone Tree Arts Center, Sept 6 BRANDI CARLILE WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 6-7 MADE BY US MARKET, Denver Central Market, Sept 7 ARKANSAUCE, The Lariat, Buena Vista, Sept 7 BIG RICHARD, Arvada Center Outdoor Amphitheatre, Sept 7 RIST CANYON MOUNTAIN FESTIVAL, Bellvue, Sept 7 GREEN LINE MUSIC FESTIVAL, Barbox at Aspen Grove, Littleton, Sept 7 CRESTED BUTTE CHILI AND BEER FESTIVAL, Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Sept 7 PINTS IN THE PARK, Community Park, Louisville, Sept 7 CASTLE ROCK ARTFEST, Downtown Castle Rock, Sept 7-8 BOULDER PHILHARMONIC: TCHAIKOVSKY & MENDELSSOHN WITH AMARYN OLMEDA, Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Sept 8 THE OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS, Lone Tree Arts Center, Sept 8 KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 8-9 LAFAYETTE BREW FEST, 990 S. Public Road, Sept 9 “AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER” IN CONCERT, Buell Theatre, Denver, Sept 10 JOJO HERMANN & FRIENDS, Gerald Ford Amphitheater, Vail, Sept 10

28 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Photo courtesy of the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology

COLORADO MOUNTAIN WINEFEST The Colorado Mountain Winefest returns to Palisade’s Riverbend Park on Saturday, Sept. 21. There is also a

WARREN HAYNES WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 10 SUM 41, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 11 JACK HADLEY TRIO, Lone Tree Arts Center, Sept 11 JIM GAFFIGAN, Gerald Ford Amphitheater, Vail, Sept 12 CHARLEY CROCKETT, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 12 AMOS LEE & INDIGO GIRLS, Gerald Ford Amphitheater, Vail, Sept 13 THE WAR AND TREATY, Levitt Pavilion, Denver, Sept 13 GERALD ALBRIGHT’S LONE TREE SESSIONS: G-FUNK, Lone Tree Arts Center, Sept 13 JIM GAFFIGAN, Sunset Amphitheater, Colorado Springs, Sept 13 GREENSKY BLUEGRASS, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 13-14 COLORADO SYMPHONY: DVORÁK’S “NEW WORLD SYMPHONY” WITH PETER OUNDJIAN, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Sept 13-15 TELLURIDE BLUES AND BREWS, Telluride Town Park, Sept 13-15 FALL FEST, Downtown Boulder, Sept 13-15 “HAMLET,” Wolf Theatre, Denver, Sept 13-Oct 6 AGRICULTURE FESTIVAL, Plains Conservation Center, Aurora, Sept 14 BEST OF THE WEST WING FEST, Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Colorado Springs, Sept 14

full schedule of Colorado Wine Week events starting Sept. 16, leading up to the festival.

ColoradoWinefest.com

TOUR OF THE MOON, Grand Junction Convention Center, Sept 14 A TRIP TO TRINIDAD WITH CHRISTA & TODD, Main Street Live, Trinidad, Sept 14 TWO FEET, Belly Up, Aspen, Sept 14 THE STARS AND STRIPES BARBECUE FEST, Cerise Park, Montrose, Sept 14 AMOS LEE, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 15 TASTE OF OLD COLORADO CITY, Bancroft Park, Colorado Springs, Sept 15 PENTATONIX, Sunset Amphitheater, Colorado Springs, Sept 15 COLORADO WINE WEEK, statewide, Sept 15-21 TAKÁCS QUARTET, Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Sept 15-23 KRISTINA ORBAKAITE, Newman Center, Denver, Sept 16 MITSKI, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 17 CROWDED HOUSE, Gerald Ford Amphitheater, Vail, Sept 17 CAGE THE ELEPHANT, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 18 GET THE LED OUT, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 19 CAGE THE ELEPHANT, Sunset Amphitheater, Colorado Springs, Sept 19 HIGH PLAINS COMEDY FESTIVAL, Paramount Theatre, Denver, Sept 19-21 PUEBLO CHILE & FRIJOLES FESTIVAL, Downtown Pueblo, Sept 20-22 DENVER OKTOBERFEST, Larimer and 21st, Sept 20-29

FALL EVENTS GUIDE “THE SCHOOL FOR LIES,” Bas Bleu Theatre, Fort Collins, Sept 20-Oct 13 CORN MAZE, Chatfield Farms, Littleton, Sept 20-Oct 27 BOULDER BALLET: UNLOCKED, Chautauqua Auditorium, Boulder, Sept 20 DANCEASPEN, Lone Tree Arts Center, Sept 20 PIKES PEAK MARATHON & ASCENT, Memorial Park, Manitou Springs, Sept 21-22 AUTUMN ARTS FESTIVAL, Durango Arts Center, Sept 21-22 COLORADO SYMPHONY’S “STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK” IN CONCERT, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Sept 21-22 SOUTHWEST FRESH FEST, Billy Goat Hop Farm, Montrose, Sept 21 COLORADO MOUNTAIN WINEFEST, Palisade, Sept 21 TOUR DE VINEYARDS, Palisade, Sept 21 RINO 5K, Larimer Lot, Denver, Sept 21 ANNUAL POWWOW, ROCK LEDGE RANCH, Colorado Springs, Sept 21 BINES & BREWS BEER FEST, Limbach Park, Monument, Sept 21 BARENAKED LADIES, Sunset Amphitheater, Colorado Springs, Sept 21 “KIMBERLY AKIMBO,” Buell Theatre, Denver, Sept 22-Oct 5 THE LONGEST JOHNS, Strings Music Festival, Steamboat Springs, Sept 22 BARENAKED LADIES, Gerald Ford Amphitheater, Vail, Sept 22 CÉCILE MCLORIN SALVANT QUARTET, Newman Center, Denver, Sept 22 COLE SWINDELL, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 23 GROOVE WITH THE BOULDER PHILHARMONIC, Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, Sept 25 MARTHA REDBONE PRESENTS BONE HILL, Newman Center, Denver, Sept 25 STURTZ IN CONCERT, Bross Hotel, Paonia, Sept 26 COLORADO SYMPHONY’S LATIN BEATS: SONIDAS DE LAS AMÉRICAS, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Sept 26 TAILS, TUNES & TASTES, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Sept 26 TELLURIDE AUTUMN CLASSIC, Sept 26-29 SEVEN LIONS, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 27 TRINACOUSTIC - THE FINAL CHAPTER, Main Street Live, Trinidad, Sept 27 FALL PLANT & BULB SALE, Denver Botanic Gardens, Sept 27-28 FRUITA FALL FESTIVAL, Downtown Fruita, Sept 27-28 GREELEY OKTOBREWFEST, Lincoln Park, Sept 27-28 TARANTULA FEST, Downtown La Junta, Sept 27-28 Email your upcoming event listings to joe@thirstcolorado.com. And check venue and event websites for updates.

RUBBERBAND: RECKLESS UNDERDOG, Newman Center, Denver, Oct 1 DURANGO COWBOY GATHERING, Downtown Durango, Oct 2-6 WARDRUNA, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 3 SLANDER, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 4 DOCTOR NOIZE AND JUSTIN ROBERTS, Strings Music Festival, Steamboat Springs, Oct 4

ATMOSPHERE, Belly Up, Aspen, Oct 4 DOWNTOWN ART FESTIVAL, Grand Junction, Oct 4-5 CEDAREDGE APPLEFEST, Town Park, Oct 4-6 COLORADO SYMPHONY: MENDELSSOHN VIOLIN CONCERTO FEATURING ANNE AKIKO MEYERS, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 4-6 ÁYA CON INDIGENOUS COMIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL, McNichols Civic Center Building, Denver, Oct 4-6 COLORADO BALLET: “SLEEPING BEAUTY,” Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver, Oct 4-13 “AVAAZ,” Singleton Theatre, Denver, Oct 4-Nov 17 MADE BY US MARKET, Denver Central Market, Oct 5 DENVER WHISKEY RIOT, the Brighton, Oct 5 CIRCA, Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Oct 5 LSZEE, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 5-6 LAKEWOOD CIDER DAYS, Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park, Oct 5-6 CHEESMAN PARK FALL ARTS INVITATIONAL, Denver, Oct 5-6 FLATLAND CAVALRY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 7 PHAMALY THEATER COMPANY PRESENTS “FUNNY AS A CRUTCH,” The People’s Building, Aurora, Oct 7-20

1ST ANNUAL

5TH ANNUAL

MOUNTAIN HARVEST FESTIVAL, Downtown Paonia, Sept 27-29 “DRACULA: A FEMINIST REVENGE FANTASY, REALLY,” Arvada Center, Sept 27-Nov 3 “I AM NOT YOUR PERFECT MEXICAN DAUGHTER,” Kilstrom Theatre, Denver, Sept 27-Nov 3 COLORADO SYMPHONY: AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH LEEANN RIMES, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Sept 28 BLUES ON THE MESA, Gold Hill Mesa, Colorado Springs, Sept 28 BIG GIGANTIC, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 28 OKTOBERFEST, Cerise Park, Montrose, Sept 28 ELK FEST, Bond Park, Estes Park, Sept 28-29 FOR KING + COUNTRY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Sept 30

OCTOBER

SATURDAY

SATURDAY

October 12, 2024

November 30, 2024

11:00am - 5:00pm SILO PARK Thompson River Ranch

11:00am - 5:00pm Estes Park Event Center

Tickets on Sale Now!

Tickets on Sale Now!

hallowinefestival.com.com

estesparkholidaywinefestival.com

Artist: Monica MG | Mmgartstudio.com

Artist: Monica MG | Mmgartstudio.com

September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 29

MEGHAN TRAINOR, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 8 SHOWMAN & COOLE OF THE LONESOME ACE STRINGBAND, Bross Hotel, Paonia, Oct 8 STILL WOOZY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 9 COMMUNITY HARVEST FESTIVAL, Growing Gardens, Boulder, Oct 9 GOTH BABE, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 10 BOMBARGO, Belly Up, Aspen, Oct 10 COLORADO SYMPHONY CELLO ENSEMBLE, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 10 GREAT AMERICAN BEER FESTIVAL, Colorado Convention Center, Denver, Oct 10-12 ALISON WONDERLAND, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 11 2024 CIDERFEST, Big B’s Orchards, Hotchkiss, Oct 11 TELLURIDE HORROR SHOW, Oct 11-13 BRECKENRIDGE CRAFT SPIRITS FESTIVAL, Riverwalk Center, Oct 11-13 PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, Chatfield Farms, Littleton, Oct 11-13 CHRIS THILE WITH THE COLORADO SYMPHONY, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 12 BOULDER BALLET: DANCER’S CHOICE, Dairy Arts Center, Boulder, Oct 12 POUDRE POUR ART & CULTURE FEST, Windsor History Museum, Oct 12 KOE WETZEL, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 13 LAKECIA BENJAMIN, Newman Center, Denver, Oct 13 AMERICANA: REDEFINED WITH THE BOULDER PHILHARMONIC, Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, Oct 16 “HAMILTON,” Buell Theatre, Denver, Oct 16-Nov 24 IMAGINE DRAGONS, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 17 MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET, Lone Tree Arts Center, Oct 17-27 PIKES PEAK DOCUFEST, COS City Hub, Colorado Springs, Oct 18-19 COLORADO SYMPHONY PERFORMS VERDI’S “REQUIEM” FOR A 40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE COLORADO SYMPHONY CHORUS, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 18-20 ROCKY MOUNTAIN WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL, Colorado College, Colorado Springs, Oct 18-20 ANIMAS VALLEY BALLOON RALLY, Downtown Durango, Oct 18-20 COLORADO SPRINGS TATTOO ARTS FESTIVAL, Colorado Springs Event Center, Oct 18-20 BLITHE SPIRIT, Main Street Live, Trinidad, Oct 18-27 ELEPHANT & PIGGIE’S “WE ARE IN A PLAY!,” Randy Weeks Conservatory Theatre, Denver, Oct 18-Dec 22 BOO AT THE ZOO, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Colorado Springs, Oct 18-31 BRISTON MARONEY, Belly Up, Aspen, Oct 19 MARIZA, Newman Center, Denver, Oct 20 HOTEL ELSINORE, Strings Music Festival, Steamboat Springs, Oct 20 HARDY, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 20-21

30 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Photo courtesy of the Denver Botanic Gardens

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms will host its annual pumpkin festival Oct. 11-13, with a 10-acre COLORADO SPRINGS SPORTS HALL OF FAME, Broadmoor World Arena, Colorado Springs, Oct 22 GLOW AT THE GARDENS, Denver Botanic Gardens, Oct 22-27 MONOPOLY LIFESIZED: TRAVEL EDITION, DCPA Off-Center at Broadway Park, Denver, Oct 22-Jan 5 MARC REBILLET, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 23 BRASS & BREWS WITH THE BOULDER PHILHARMONIC, Planet Bluegrass, Lyons, Oct 23 DONALD BERMAN, Newman Center, Denver, Oct 23 SOFI TUKKER, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 24 ABOVE & BEYOND, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 25 COLORADO SYMPHONY PERFORMS DISNEY IN CONCERT: TIM BURTON’S “THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS,” Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 25-26 WINE IN THE PINES, various locations, Keystone, Oct 25-26 “HÄNSEL UND GRETEL,” Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Oct 25-27 DAILY BREAD, Red Rocks, Morrison, Oct 26 EMMA CRAWFORD COFFIN RACES AND FESTIVAL, Manitou Springs, Oct 26 COLORADO SYMPHONY: HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR!, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Oct 27 BOULDER PHILHARMONIC: BEWITCHING HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA, Parsons Theatre, Northglenn, Oct 27

pumpkin patch, corn maze, live music, craft and arts vendors, family activities and more. botanicgardens.org SOLAR COLORADO SHOW, Hilton Garden Inn, Trinidad, Oct 29-30 BOULDER PHILHARMONIC: BEWITCHING HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA, Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Oct 30

NOVEMBER COLORADO SYMPHONY: FINAL FANTASY VI REBIRTH ORCHESTRA WORLD TOUR, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Nov 1-2 DEADMAU5, Red Rocks, Morrison, Nov 1-2 SONGWRITER CITY, Lone Tree Arts Center, Nov 2 “GUTENBERG! THE MUSICAL!,” Garner Galleria Theatre, Denver, Nov 2-May 4 NAT GEO LIVE: LIVE ON THIN ICE, Lone Tree Arts Center, Nov 7 COLORADO SYMPHONY: RACHMANINOFF PIANO CONCERTO NO. 2 WITH SIMON TRPCESKI, Boettcher Concert Hall, Denver, Nov 8-10 GABRIEL KAHANE & ROOMFUL OF TEETH, Newman Center, Denver, Nov 8 PABLO SÁINZ VILLEGAS, Macky Auditorium, Boulder, Nov 9 GABRIEL KAHANE & CAROLINE SHAW, Newman Center, Denver, Nov 9 MUMMENSCHANZ, Lone Tree Arts Center, Nov 9-10 OPERA COLORADO: DONZETTI’S “DAUGHTER OF THE REGIMENT,” Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver, Nov 9-17

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© 2024 Mafia Princess Wines, LLC. All rights reserved. GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) According to the Surgeon General, women should not drink alcoholic beverages during pregnancy because of the risk of birth defects. (2) Consumption of alcoholic beverages impairs your ability to drive a car or operate machinery, and may cause health problems.

September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 31

Prime Pairings Shrimp scampi and sauvignon blanc from The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey

By Kristen Kuchar This classic shrimp scampi recipe comes from the Wines of Colorado restaurant, located in Cascade, which is not far from North Pole Colorado and Santa’s Workshop.

The restaurant team recommends pairing the dish with a light and crisp sauvignon blanc. The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, located in Cañon City, serves a great option.

Their sauvignon blanc is aged in stainless steel to preserve the varietal’s lemon flavors, which in turn complement the lemon in the dish.

Ingredients Servings: 4 2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 4 garlic cloves, minced ½ cup dry white wine or broth ¾ tsp kosher salt, or to taste 2 tsp finely chopped shallots Freshly ground black pepper 1¾ pounds large or extra-large shrimp, shelled 1/4 cup packed baby spinach leaves Freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon Cooked pasta (we use linguine) and crusty bread Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and shallots and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add wine or broth, salt, and plenty of black pepper and bring to a simmer. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 minutes.

Add shrimp and sauté until they just turn pink, 2 to 4 minutes depending upon their size. Stir in the spinach and lemon juice and serve over pasta, accompanied by crusty bread.

32 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Peachfork ORCHARD & VINEYARD “FRUIT AND WINE WITH AN ALTITUDE”

AWARD WINNING ESTATE WINES 281 33 RD PALISADE COLORADO PEACHFORK.COM (970) 216-7662

1428 Miner St • Idaho Springs, CO 720-432-0133 slaymakercellars.com

Award winning, local mead in the heart of a delightful mountain town. Stop by our tasting room for samples or sip a glass in the mead garden. Enjoy the adjacent Miner Street Market and strains of live music. The Mead Garden is open May-October.

AWARD WINNING. FAMILY OWNED. COLORADO GROWN.

SOMETHING WORTH SHARING...

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CHARACTERS OF THE CRAFT Juliann Adams Owner and winemaker at Vines 79 Wine Barn Age: Old enough

husband Dan and we milked 60 head.

What do you love about your job? Sharing a glass of one of my wines with a new friend.

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation destination?

Why? Estes Park, I love the wildlife walking through town!

What is the hardest part of your job? Working around Mother Nature’s unpredictability.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? The morning sun coming through my window or my dog Rico.

What’s one thing about yourself that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? I owned a dairy farm in New York State with my

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado? The Winery Restaurant in Grand Junction because it’s always a special treat.

Hillary Eales Founder and winemaker at Mafia Princess Wine Age: 38 What do you love about your job?

I love that I get to make it my own.

Taking the leap to buy a vineyard and start our own winery has been an incredible adventure that is uniquely ours. We created a brand around family stories that we get to share with all our guests, as we welcome everyone to be part of our family through wine. I get the opportunity to make wine that reflects my creativity and desire to use out-of-the-box winemaking methods to achieve great wines (things like not pressing my reds for 10 months, for which I’ve been called crazy by other winemakers).

I also love that we can make this a family affair. While working and living and raising kids all in the same place, has its challenges, it also has its rewards. Like harvesting with our kids, even if they are eating more grapes than end up in the wine.

What is the hardest part of your job? Finding the balance between work and family. It’s a hard balance no matter what you do for work, but when you run your own business, it is easy to let the business run you.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? Coffee! Well, only partially. I like to get up before the rest of the family, have a cup of coffee and read a good book. It’s often the only bit of quiet in my day.

What’s one thing about yourself that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? I grew up with horses and even still have my saddles from when I was a kid. My dream is to have a horsepowered vineyard. In talking to my husband about this, he actually agreed that if we buy more property, we can plant a horse-powered vineyard on it! I love the idea of being able to run a vineyard without any mechanical equipment. Vineyard life is already romanticized, adding horses would just be icing on the cake.

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation destination?

Why? I’d stay right here in the Grand Valley. I’d do all the things … carriage ride to the wineries, mountain bike in Fruita, hit up the breweries, float the river, all in a long weekend. So often when you live in a destination, you miss out on all the cool things people come from all over to do.

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado?

626 on Rood in Grand Junction is definitely one of my favorites.

They always have a great wine selection and the always changing food menu is fun. One time I went with a friend from Oregon who picked out a Pinot Noir from a winery he was familiar with, and a vintage he said was one of the best. To date, that’s been the only Pinot Noir wine I thought was outstanding (no doubt I just offended a bunch of Pinot drinkers!).

Tate Hamilton Artist/oil painter Age: Ageless, or possibly 68 What do you love about your job? I get to do what I want everyday, which is create art and then travel around the country with my wife, doing art festivals, meeting people and selling my work.

What is the hardest part of your job? Sometimes bad weather can be a detriment while at the art festivals, and sometimes long drives can get a little boring.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? Lately, woodpeckers banging on the metal gutters around my house. I get it, mating season and all, but could you wait until noon at least?

What’s one thing about yourself that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? I’m an open book. I think all my friends know me pretty well.

34 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation destination?

Why? I don’t really have one particular place but my wife and I do enjoy staying at The Monarch in Black Hawk, occasionally.

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado? There are so many places that we love to go to eat and drink. For great northern New Mexico food, we like Tamales by La Casita. For pizza, we like Carl’s Pizza on West 38th. We also like Blue Pan Pizza and Rico’s Pizzeria.

CHARACTERS OF THE CRAFT Candice Mohr Owner of Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park Age: 53 What do you love about your job? I love that it uses all my skill sets, which keeps it interesting every day. I love meeting people from all over the world and getting to be a small part of their Colorado vacation. I especially love the community we’ve built with our regular customers, local artists and musicians, non-profit organizations and so many more people over the last 19 years.

What is the hardest part of your job? Keeping all of the balls in the air.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? Wondering what new adventure the day will bring.

What’s one thing about yourself that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? I used to be a wildland firefighter with Rocky Mountain National Park.

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation destination?

Why? Here’s my top three: Palisade for great food, fresh peaches,

beautiful hikes and of course enjoying wine tastings at all the wonderful wineries. Steamboat Springs for fall color, great restaurants, beautiful hikes and Strawberry Hot Springs. But honestly for a true staycation, just being in Estes can’t be beat. Almost unlimited hikes through all kinds of terrain, great restaurants, and aweinspiring views everywhere you look. I love just sitting on my deck with a glass of wine in my hand, watching the birds and other wildlife and enjoying the Colorado sun.

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado?

Seasoned Bistro in Estes Park. The food is always creative, super fresh and visually stunning. The ambiance is homey and comfortable, while still being elegant and the service is top notch.

Monte Michael Moore Professional fine artist and illustrator Age: 53 What do you love about your job? After 30 years as a full-time illustrator, I still get a charge out of turning a blank sheet of paper or canvas into something completely different. You’d think when you’ve created several thousand pieces of art you would get burnt out, but I still love creating. It feels like It’s a kind of magic.

What is the hardest part of your job? Staying on top of client projects and deadlines. You don’t have the luxury of not feeling in the mood to draw or paint. When you have a deadline and you have committed to a project, you just sit down and create and some days that is harder than others, and sometimes it just flows.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? I’m extremely driven to succeed, so knowing the competition might be sleeping, gets me up and motivated to forge ahead and get my day going, whether

it’s making art, building unique frames or interacting with clients and fans on social media, I love every aspect of it.

What’s one thing about you that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? My partner and I are planning on opening a bistro in 2024 in the Littleton/Highlands Ranch area that will also have live art events! Very few people know about it, not even our parents!

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation? Why? We love Breckenridge, and visit quite often. It’s the perfect mix of old mountain town charm with great shopping and fabulous restaurants. Breck is very foodie for those that don’t know. Ember, Radicado, Blue River Bistro, Empire Burger, Legends Steakhouse and even the highest tiki bar in America - Castaways Cove.

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado?

I would say Ember in Breckenridge, owned by head chef Scotty Boshaw. The food is really unique and amazing and we love to sit at the bar some nights and chat with locals and tourists from around the world.

Nic Weber Chef/owner of Bird Dog Culinary LLC, a western Colorado culinary consulting firm Age: 33 What do you love about your job? Connecting guests with the bounty of local agriculture and history.

What is the hardest part of your job? The light switch never turns off. When entrenched in this industry, the mind is an ever-burning ember that needs stoked and snuffed constantly.

What gets you out of bed in the morning? My smiling 5-monthold daughter, Magnolia.

What’s one thing about yourself that most people in your circle wouldn’t know? Nothing comes to mind. This is an intimate work environment, and I tend to wear my heart on my sleeve. My stories are a compilation of lessons I have learned through success and failure that I often share with those I am close to.

What would be your favorite Colorado staycation destination?

Why? The campsites along the Dolores river on 4.1 Road near Gateway. I have a lot of fond memories of that river, whether it be camping with friends and having big cookouts or just walking the banks and reflecting with my English Setter, Belle.

What’s one of your favorite places to eat or drink in Colorado? Brasserie Brixton. The team there is largely a collection of friends I was shoulder to shoulder in the trenches with earning the James Beard Award for best chef Colorado at Mercantile Dining & Provisions in Denver. The food is amazing, the atmosphere fun, the service impeccable. They are also next door to Yacht Club so after your meal you can cap the night with some of the best cocktails around.

September-October 2024

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TAKING STEPS Walk to End Alzheimer’s set for Sept. 21

By the Thirst Team

W

hat’s a great way to have fun while raising awareness for a disease that brings sorrow to nearly every family in the state? Denver’s 35th anniversary Walk to End Alzheimer’s is set for Sept. 21 and the masses will gather to raise funds and celebrate the next step in eradication.

Rebecca Engle, director of the Denver Walk, said the local organization hopes to raise more than a million dollars to support new and promising treatments.

“As the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research, we are excited about new treatments to help slow the progression of the disease,” Engle said. “The FDA has approved two drugs to treat early Alzheimer’s disease, including people living with mild cognitive impairment.”

Alzheimer’s affects parts of the brain that control language,

36 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

thought and memory. It’s the most common form of dementia and it’s estimated to impact one of three seniors.

It’s easy to sign up as a participant, or to register a team.

Because there are 12 different Walks throughout Colorado, choosing one close to home is convenient. Check out act.alz.org/denverwalk to learn how to support the cause.

Engle said the fundraiser has continued to grow each year following the Covid-19 outbreak.

“This year’s fundraising goal is $1.2 million, so we are definitely back and ready to raise critical funds,” she said. “We are always looking for volunteers to help as well.”

Sparks Financial is the local Presenting Sponsor for 2024 and numerous other businesses support the effort in a big way.

Because more than 75,000 Coloradans live with Alzheimer’s, the gathering each September is full of families and friends who have a strong bond in supporting loved ones.

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September-October 2024

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WEED-FRIENDLY CAMPING IS AN EXCELLENT OPTION FOR SOME

Story and photos by John Garvey

I

step out of the car and the first thing I hear is the buzzing, whistling sound of a hummingbird. The first thing I feel is something gently pawing my foot. I look down and see a ground squirrel with his front paws between the straps of my left sandal. He scurries up the outside of my pant leg before losing his grip, or nerve, about two feet up. He falls to the ground and runs off.

This is my first impression of CanyonSide Campground. It is not stressing me out so far.

Located about 25 minutes west of the Mishawaka Amphitheatre (the Mish) by car, or one hour from downtown Fort Collins, CanyonSide Campground is one of the preferred, openly weed-friendly campgrounds in Colorado. I’m here to talk with June Alexander, the owner and general manager.

‘I’M NOT YOUR MORAL COMPASS’ Alexander has been the general manager and sole owner of CanyonSide Campground since 2017. She was first a co-owner starting in 2001.

“When I came up here in ‘17, I guess marijuana had been legal for like four years,” she says. “And it might have come up, but I never knew it.”

June Alexander, owner of the CanyonSide Campground.

38 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Cabins, RV spaces and tent pads are available for an overnight stay.

A Vietnam vet who dropped in during a cross-country motorcycle road trip got Alexander thinking about her campground marijuana policy. He suffered from several chronic health conditions and tried cannabis for the first time in decades while at the campground. It worked. His planned overnight stay turned into a restorative two-week visit. “And that’s when I realized, who am I to tell a Vietnam vet you can’t smoke pot, but you’re taking all those drugs?”

Alexander saw the writing on the wall and made an official campground policy to welcome cannabis consumption at her campground, with clearly stated guardrails.

“I have no problem telling people I’m marijuana friendly, but I also don’t make a big deal about it.”

In other words, CanyonSide is not a 4/20 campground. It’s 4/20-friendly, and my strong impression is that it’s also family friendly.

“So if you’re in that cabin, that’s your space, right?” Alexander says. “You don’t have to listen to those people’s music, you know, because everybody pays. I’m like the mom, you know. Everybody pays for their space and if they decide to sit there and smoke pot or cigarettes – just don’t do it in my cabin – then we’re okay.”

People not supervising their kids. People letting their dogs off-leash. People arguing loudly. Drunks. Poor wildlife safety.

Severe weather. Stoners are really far down your list of prospective problems if you’re running a campground.

In this case, as in many others, rules eliminate ambiguity. And that helps to prevent conflict.

‘EVERYTHING IN LIFE YOU NEED TO KNOW YOU CAN LEARN AT A CAMPGROUND’ Campground management requires a lot of hard labor, a fair amount of diplomacy, a tolerance for relative isolation, and a fearless determination to keep people in line when they’re being dangerous or obnoxious to other campers. It’s also about perseverance, ingenuity and patience. Alexander has met a lot of campground managers, and none of them hate their job.

Alexander tells me about one instance at a campground convention when another campground owner was ribbing her about her cannabis-friendly policy.

“Do you ever have problems with drunks?” she asked.

“All the time.”

“You know how many problems I’ve had at my campground because of people smoking marijuana? Zero.”

Nobody would accuse Alexander of being soft-spoken, but she is disarming and diplomatic. Her point landed. In her years running CanyonSide Campground, she has only had one cancellation because of her cannabis policy, and it was amicable. Some people, generally parents, don’t want to be anywhere near the stuff, and Alexander respects that in the same way she respects people’s right to indulge discreetly.

CAMPSITE AND AMENITIES When Alexander started going to campground conventions she quickly came to appreciate that “everyone has their niche.”

“You make it how you want to make it, right? So (CanyonSide is) not like any other campground. I’m not the same as Ed across the street (at Poudre River Resort), or Glen Echo. We all do something different.”

She’s telling me this and no more than a few seconds go by without the peculiar, sedating whir of a hummingbird flying by.

Cannabis is definitely not the key thing that defines CanyonSide, either from the typical guest’s standpoint or from Alexander’s perspective.

Each of the campground’s cabins is unique, well-maintained, cheerful and rustic. Most of the bathrooms have been redone in the last five years, tiles and panels have been replaced, and Alexander has repainted a lot of rooms. But the appliances, fixtures and finishes are generally rustic. CanyonSide also has about a dozen RV sites with water, sewer and electric hookups, as well as tent camping.

It would be an equally welcoming place for a family, a wedding party or a couple of stoned concert-goers.

John Garvey is a storyteller, freelance writer, illustrator, and nerd. You can see more of his creative ventures at clippings.me/johngarvey and CreativeFollies.com.

September-October 2024

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CELEBRATING WOMEN BREWERS IN THE CRAFT SCENE

By Kristen Kuchar

H

the people who saw something in me and took a chance on me, because I can’t imagine doing anything else now.

istory tells us that it was women who were the original brewers, and there continues to be a growing number of women pursuing this career path. Fortunately for beer drinkers in Colorado, this state has a robust, supportive community of women in the beer industry utilizing their passion, creativity and skills to produce top-notch brews. We reached out to a handful to learn how they got started, their favorite place to grab a pint and the best part about being a brewer in Colorado.

Favorite style to brew? Or a specific favorite beer you have brewed?

I am a sucker for a kettle sour for a brew day, but my favorite beer I have ever made is a Munich Dunkel named Crispy Bits. My only hobby is baking, and the concept was to make it taste like the crispy bits on a loaf of bread.

JULIEANNE DIEHL Brewer at Denver Beer Co., Lowry taproom

Name one of your favorite, female-made Colorado beers.

Something I love about the community here is that there is never a shortage of woman-made beers around. I love supporting all my peers but currently am really excited about our beer we made for International Women’s Month as a collaboration with a few other women brewers. It is a Belgian Wit named “Need Help With That?”

What inspired you to become a professional brewer?

When I was a kid all I wanted to do was work in a kitchen; I loved food and providing for people. When I was old enough to work in the industry, I got a job at a craft beer bar in my hometown, and the owner (Josh Royal) took the time to teach me about beer. His generosity and patience with me inspired me to continue in the industry. In college I started an internship at Platt Park Brewing, and when I graduated, the brewmaster (Greg Mathews) asked me to be his assistant. I initially told him that was crazy. I had no idea how to make beer.

He convinced me to try and told me I could learn. I am grateful for

40 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint?

The brewery I frequent the most, outside of DBC, of course, is Platt Park. I love the beers, and it being the place I learned to brew it always feels like coming home.

What’s the best part about being a brewer in Colorado?

Being a brewer in Colorado means that I always have people to lean on. The community in the brewing industry has the mindset of a rising tide raises all boats. There is also a large concentration of women brewers here, and it’s nice to know that I have other ladies that understand the experiences I have had as a woman in this industry.

EMILIE STEWART MASKWA Senior product development, brewer at Blue Moon RiNo What inspired you to become a professional brewer?

It started off in Texas when I was either 12 or 13. The Holy Family of Nazareth seventh-grade science fair was a big deal, and if you wanted to best the paper mache volcanoes and potato alarm clocks you needed to bring your “A” game. Displaying even then a precocious ability to curry favor with authority, I asked Ms. Parchman, “What kind of beer do you like?” With help from my dad, an enthusiastic (if inconsistent) homebrewer, a sixpack of barleywine rode along with my paper and poster board.

High marks were awarded. My path led me to the MillerCoors Eden Brewery, where I honed my skills from the lab to brewing operations. Transitioning to the Blue Moon Brewery, I am the senior product development brewer. I run the 2-barrel pilot system, overseeing research and development for the Blue Moon family of brands.

Favorite style to brew? Or a specific favorite beer you have brewed?

My favorite style to brew and drink is Czech dark lagers. With their rich maltiness and smooth finish, they offer a perfect canvas for brewing expertise and creativity to shine. Whether it’s crafting traditional recipes or adding a unique twist, I find joy and satisfaction in the nuanced flavors and meticulous process of brewing Czech dark lagers. I also have a passion for sourcing new and novel ingredients and developing recipes that allow these unique elements to shine. Whether it’s exotic hops, rare grains, unconventional adjuncts, or exotic fruits, I really enjoy the challenge of incorporating these ingredients into Blue Moon’s brewing creations.

Name one of your favorite, female-made Colorado beers.

Chosen Family ESB, crafted by Lady Justice Brewing, is more than just a killer beer with notes of biscuit, bread, caramel, and honey. Lady Justice Brewing’s commitment to their mission shines through their Community-Supported Beer (CSB) memberships, where 100% of profits over cost are channeled directly to CSB nonprofit partners. Beyond financial support, the brewery weaves community engagement into the fabric of its taproom, offering opportunities to volunteer, collaborate on brews, and much more.

They moved locations to Englewood in late March of this year – make sure you stop by and support these amazing people and their incredible mission.

Favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint?

My favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint is definitely Cannonball Creek Brewery. Lucky for me, it’s conveniently close to my house, making it a regular haunt. What keeps me coming back time and time again is the consistently excellent beer they brew. Whether I’m in the mood for a classic style or something more adventurous, Cannonball Creek always delivers. The brewery’s commitment to

quality and innovation shines through in every pint.

What’s the best part about being a brewer in Colorado?

The best part about being a brewer in Colorado is undoubtedly the vibrant and passionate craft beer community. From fellow brewers to enthusiastic beer lovers, there’s a shared excitement and appreciation for quality beer that permeates the entire state.

Colorado’s rich brewing tradition, coupled with its stunning natural landscapes, provides endless inspiration and opportunities for creativity. Whether collaborating on new recipes, exploring innovative brewing techniques, or simply enjoying a pint with friends, being part of Colorado’s brewing scene is a truly rewarding experience that fosters camaraderie and creativity.

KATE STEPHENS Brewer at Rock Cut Brewing What inspired you to become a professional brewer?

I started at Rock Cut Brewing as a bartender in 2018. I liked craft beer, the people, and the atmosphere, so thought working at my favorite local brewery would be fun. I come from a background of production work in baking, so after a year or so of working in the bar I began to express interest in moving to the back. I started as a brewer’s assistant with a focus on lab work and research, and have since grown to the position of lead brewer. I never anticipated being a brewer, but am so happy to be part of this industry. The problem solving and creativity on a daily basis, the community, and the endless evolution of craft beer make for a very rewarding and satisfying career.

Favorite style to brew? Or a specific favorite beer you have brewed?

The first recipe I wrote was designed after the French 75 cocktail (champagne, gin, and lemon): Le Petit Citron. This beer was a quarantine project, so I poured a lot of time and research into it (and maybe a French 75 or two). I selected spices and herbs to mimic gin botanicals, made “teas” to figure out the right ratios, and for the first time, deep dove into different hops, malts, and adjuncts. The whole process was so enriching – brewing this beer will always have a special place in my heart.

Name one of your favorite, female-made Colorado beers.

The Helles from Bierstadt is absolutely phenomenal – it is delicate, crisp, and delicious.

Favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint?

It’s impossible to pick just one. Casey in Glenwood Springs is my go-to for sours (when I’m out that way). I love the diversity of Jessup Farm’s taplist, their barrel-aged stouts are particularly tasty.

And when I’m in Denver, I must grab at least one crispy boi from Bierstadt. Locally, I love grabbing a pint from my friends at Avant Garde and Lumpy Ridge.

What’s the best part about being a brewer in Colorado?

The other brewers and breweries, with a special shout out to September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 41

the Fort Collins chapter of Pink Boots Society. Everyone in the industry is so supportive and kind (and often, nerdy and strange).

Collaborations are always an amazing time: Collab Fest is one of the most fun beer events in the state. So many beautiful and weird things come from that festival - I highly recommend going to see and sample the melding of all these brilliant minds.

KELLY MCKNIGHT Lead R&D brewer at New Belgium Brewing What inspired you to become a professional brewer?

I had been homebrewing since 2001 in my dorms at the University of Washington and then later went to Harvard to study chemistry and finish my pre-med requirements. During an intense period of studying for the MCAT, I decided to take a break to homebrew and have fun. As I was brewing I realized how happy I felt and knew that I had to become a brewer versus a doctor.

My science background allowed me to score a brewing job at a 14-barrel brewpub in Boston. As head brewer I focused primarily on Belgian beers and worked with any and all unique ingredients that I could find.

Favorite style to brew? Or a specific favorite beer you have brewed?

I love brewing Belgian beers. Always have. My favorite beer that I have been working on for the last few years is Biere de Queer. It’s a mai tai beer with pineapple, naranjilla, calamansi and hibiscus.

Tastes just like drinking a wonderful mai tai on the beaches of Kauai.

Name one of your favorite, female-made Colorado beers.

Ashleigh’s (Carter) Slow Pour Pils from Bierstadt Lagerhaus. No brainer!

Favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint?

100% Zwei Brewing Co. in Fort Collins. Zwei is my second home.

Not only do I live right by it but Kirk and Eric brew some of the best beers in America. They mainly focus on German styles and always squeak in a few sours or other surprises. They have such highquality brews and an awesome environment.

What’s the best part about being a brewer in Colorado?

A lot has changed in craft brewing over the past 15 years since I’ve been a brewer. I think Colorado brewers still have that spirit of inclusivity and openness to share information that was so awesome back in the day. Brewers here really love to hang out and elevate each other. It’s what has always made this industry special and key to personal, professional, and social growth.

NICOLE REIMAN Brewer at The Grateful Gnome What inspired you to become a professional brewer?

I woke up one morning and realized I was miserable at my job. I have a background in manufacturing and had recently started homebrewing.

The more time I spent at breweries, the more I fell in love with the collaborative and energetic environment. Brewing exercised all parts of my brain, from creative to mechanical, and allowed the wanna-be scientist in me to shine. So I quit my job to start a new career and haven’t turned back.

Favorite style to brew? Or a specific favorite beer you have brewed?

These days I’m obsessed with lagers. Most of my brewing career revolved around hazy IPAs. So when I finally had the opportunity to brew what my heart desired, I was looking for a challenge within simplicity. Lagers use limited ingredients, allowing each one to shine and leaving little room for error. One of my mentors once told me, “the devil is in the details”, and there’s something quite devilish about lagers. Plus that’s all I want to drink these days.

Name one of your favorite, female-made Colorado beers.

That’s a hard decision! I’ve participated in many women centered collaborations for Pink Boots, and I’m lucky to have worked with bad-ass women throughout my career, especially at Odd13. My favorite so far is our release last year, Mystic Bloom, a sour with meyer lemon, honey and elderflower. Tart, floral, well balanced and spunky, a reflection of all the talented ladies that contributed.

Favorite place in Colorado to grab a pint?

Lafayette. The community there has supported me through my career, and there’s endless humble talent behind their creations.

From traditional saisons at Cellar West to meticulously crafted hoppy beer at Liquid Mechanics to a purposely sourced beer list at Romero’s K-9 club, there’s something for everyone. I owe much of my success to the hard working craft beer lovers of Lafayette.

What’s the best part about being a brewer in Colorado?

There’s two. The first is our community and the collaboration within.

This is a relatively young industry in the U.S., and sharing knowledge is integral to making the best product. Everything I know has come from my peers. And within that community is a wide range of skilled individuals, from farmers to biochemists. As brewers in agricultural Colorado, we source ingredients from our neighbors. We are graced with a plethora of local maltsters, hop farmers and yeast labs, a supergroup of nerds working together to make Colorado craft beer some of the best in the nation.

Kristen Kuchar is a freelance writer covering food, libations, music and other Colorado gatherings.

42 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Financial Clarity & Direction F R O M A T E A M YO U CA N T R U S T Osaic Institutions, Inc. located at Bellco Credit Union branches Convenient access to a variety of investment services located right at your local branch.

Colfax & I-225 • Havana & Mississippi 9th & Colorado Blvd. • Grand Junction • Clifton 303-367-9768 Michael Mullen, CFP®, CRPS®, CRPC® Executive Financial Advisor Osaic Institutions, Inc. mmullen.bcufinancial@bellco.org Justin Parks Financial Advisor Osaic Institutions, Inc. jparks.bcufinancial@bellco.org

Investment and insurance products and services are offered through OSAIC INSTITUTIONS, INC., Member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Institutions and Bellco Credit Union (“Bellco”) are not affiliated. Products and services made available through Osaic Institutions are not insured by the NCUA or any other agency of the United States and are not deposits or obligations of nor guaranteed or insured by any credit union or credit union affiliate. These products are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of principal. The past performance of any investment product should not be considered an indication of future results. Insurance products may be purchased from a producer of your choice without affecting your relationship with Bellco. Bellco has contracted with Osaic Institutions to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members.

September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 43

COLORADO CRAFT L Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake ●

New Image Brewing ●

GOLDEN

WESTMINSTER

Raices Brewing Co

Odyssey Beerwerks ● ●

Barrels and Bottles Brewery ●

BJ’s ●

Seedstock Brewery ● ●

Resolute Brewing Tap & Cellar ●

Cannonball Creek Brewing Co ●

Frolic Brewing Co ●

Strange Craft Beer Co ● ●

SomePlace Else Brewery

Coda Brewing

Kokopelli Beer Co ● ●

BREWERIES DENVER

Tivoli Brewing ●

Spice Trade Brewing at Yak & Yeti ●

Coors Brewing Co

Westminster Brewing Co ●

Golden City Brewery ●

NORTHEAST DENVER

A Bit Twisted Brewpub ●

Windfall Brewing Co _____________________________

BAKER/SOUTH BROADWAY

Danico Brewing ●

Bent Barley Brewing Co

Baere Brewing Co

FlyteCo Tower ●

BJ’s ●

Banded Oak Brewing Co

River North Wash. St. Taproom ●

Cerebral Brewing ● ●

● – Serves Food ● – Food Truck ● – Live Music

Burns Family Artisan Ales Denver Beer Co Incantation Brewing Monolith Brewing Novel Strand Brewing Co Platt Park Brewing Co ● The Post Chicken and Beer ● Public Offering Brewing ● Ratio Beerworks ● TRVE Brewing Co

Zuni St. Brewing Co ● ●

NORTHWEST DENVER Amalgam Brewing Berkeley Alley Beer Co. Bruz Beers ● Call to Arms Brewing Co ● Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project Diebolt Brewing Co ● ● The Empourium Brewing Co

AURORA

Cheluna Brewing Co Dry Dock Brewing Co ● Incantation Brewing Co Lady Justice Brewing Launch Pad Brewery ●

Holidaily Brewing Co Holidailybrewing.com 303.278.BEER 801 Brickyard Cir., Golden

Echo Brewing Co - Erie ● Fritz Family Brewers - Niwot

New Terrain Brewing ● ● Ohm Brewing

Howlin Wind Brewing and Blending Rollinsville

Over Yonder Brewing ●

Knotted Root Brewing Co - Nederland

GREENWOOD VILLAGE

Second Dawn Brewing

Cherry Creek Brewery ●

Six Capital Brewing & BBQ ●

Holidaily Brewing Taproom

BRIGHTON

Busey Brews - Nederland ● ●

Mountain Toad Brewing ●

Mileau Fermentation

FlyteCo Brewing ●

BOULDER COUNTY Bambei Brewing - Superior ●

Spice Trade Brewing Co

MainStage Brewing - Lyons ● Oskar Blues Grill & Brew - Lyons Very Nice Brewing - Nederland ●

BOULDER Asher Brewing Co

Goldspot Brewing Co ● ●

Big Choice Brewing

HIGHLANDS RANCH

CAPITOL HILL/E COLFAX/ PARK HILL

The Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe + Brewery ● ●

Floodstage Ale Works ●

3 Freaks Brewery ●

4 Noses Brewing Co ●

Hogshead Brewery ●

Something Brewery ●

Living the Dream Brewing Co ●

BROOMFIELD

Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

4 Noses Brewing Co ●

Prost Brewing Co & Biergarten

Finkel & Garf Brewing Co

Gordon Biersch ●

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery ●

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery ●

Bruz Off Fax Cerebral Brewing ● ● Crazy Mountain Brewery Fiction Beer Co ● Long Table Brewhouse ● Pints Pub ●

Prost Brewing Co. & Biergarten●

RINO 14er Brewing Altitude Brewing & Supply Bierstadt Lagerhaus ●

Rails End Beer Co ● ● Wonderland Brewing Co ● ●

LAKEWOOD 6 and 40 Brewery

Black Shirt Brewing Co ● ●

CASTLE ROCK

BJ’s

Blue Moon Brewing Co ● ●

105 West Brewing Co ●

Great Frontier Brewing Co ●

Brew Dog ●

Burly Brewing ● ●

Green Mountain Beer Co ●

Cohesion Brewing Co ●

The Elizabeth Brewing Co ●

Landlocked Ales ●

DENVER INT’L AIRPORT

Dewey Beer Co

Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse ●

Old 121 Brewhouse ●

Boulder Beer Tap House ●

Great Divide Brewing Co ● ●

Iron Mule Brewery ● ●

Westfax Brewing Co ●

Denver Chophouse & Brewery ●

Left Hand Brewing Co ●

Rockyard Brewing Co ●

Great Divide Brewhouse and Kitchen ●

New Belgium - The Woods at the Source

Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co ●

New Belgium Brewing ●

Odell Brewing Co

CENTENNIAL

SweetWater Mountain Taphouse ●

Breckenridge Brewery ●

Our Mutual Friend

Bent Barley Brewing Co

Tivoli Taphouse ●

Coal Mine Ave. Brewing Co

Ratio Beerworks ●

Blue Spruce Brewing Co ● ●

Comet Brews ●

River North Brewery

Halfpenny Brewing Co ● ●

Denver Beer Co ●

Spangalang Brewery ●

SOUTHEAST DENVER

Lariat Lodge Brewing ●

Woods Boss Brewing ● ●

Bull and Bush Brewery ● ●

Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

LODO / BALLPARK

Comrade Brewing ● comradebrewing.com 720.748.0700

Reverence Brewing Co Station 26 Brewing Co ● Vine Street Pub & Brewery ●

FIVE POINTS

AC Golden Brewing Co Cervecería Colorado Denver Beer Co ●

7677 E Iliff Ave Denver

Wild Provisions Beer Project

LAFAYETTE Cellar West Artisan Ales ● Liquid Mechanics ● ● Mono Mono Brewery ● Odd 13 Brewing Inc ● ● The Post Brewing Co ● ● Westbound and Down Brewing Co

Collision Brewing Co ● Großen Bart Brewery ● ●

SOUTHWEST DENVER Black Sky Brewery ●

ENGLEWOOD AREA

Chain Reaction Brewing Co ● _____________________________

Breckenridge Brewery Ale & Games ● Brewability Lab ● ● Downhill Brewing ● ●

ARVADA

Sanitas Brewing II ●

Denver Beer Co

FREDERICK

LUKI Brewery

Mirror Image Brewing Co ●

44 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Vision Quest Brewing Co ●

Lone Tree Brewing Co ●

New Image Brewing

Little Machine Beer ●

Upslope Brewing Co ● ●

Barquentine Brewing Co

Mestizo Brew Cantina ●

Degree Restaurant ●

Twisted Pine Brewing ● ●

Bootstrap Brewing ● ●

Joyride Brewing Co ●

Burns Family Artisan Ales

Southern Sun ●

Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse ●

Spice Trade Brewing at Yak & Yeti ●

DENVER SUBURBS

Sanitas Brewing Co ● ●

EDGEWATER/WHEAT RIDGE

Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery ●

Briar Common Brewery + Eatery ●

Rocks & Hops Brewing

LONE TREE

Two22 Brew ●

Denver Beer Co ●

LOHI / AURARIA

The Post Chicken and Beer ●

Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery ●

Great Divide Brewing Co ● ●

Wynkoop Brewing Co ●

Boulder Social ●

LONGMONT

Brewery Rickoli ●

Westbound & Down Brewing Co

BJ’s ●

300 Suns Brewing ●

Copper Kettle Brewing Co ●

Sandlot Brewery

Blue Spruce Brewing Co

Beyond the Mountain Brewing Co

Locavore Beer Works

Resolute Brewing Co

Denver Chophouse & Brewery ●

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery ●

LITTLETON AREA

Avery Brewing ●

NORTHGLENN/THORNTON Mother Tucker Brewery ● ● Prost Brewing Satire Brewing Co ● ● Spice Trade Brewing at Yak & Yeti ●

Bearded Brewer Artisan Ales ●

Knuckle Puck Brewing Left Hand Brewing Co ● Longs Peak Pub & Taphouse ● Oskar Blues Brewing ● Outworld Brewing ● ● The Post Chicken and Beer

PARKER

Pumphouse Brewery ●

Downhill Brewing Co ●

Shoes and Brews

Fiction Beer Co Chapter Two

Wibby Brewing ●

Lone Tree Brewing Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

LOUISVILLE 12Degree Brewing ● Crystal Springs Brewing Co

LIBATIONS LISTINGS Gravity Brewing ● ● ●

ESTES PARK

WINDSOR

PAGOSA SPRINGS

Eagle County Brewing Co - Gypsum ●

Mother Tucker Brewery ● _____________________________

Avant Garde Aleworks

High Hops Brewery ●

The Break Room Brewing Co

Vail Brewing Co - Vail ● ●

S. FRONT RANGE

Estes Park Brewery ●

Mash Lab Brewing ●

Riff Raff Brewing ● ●

Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co

Mighty River Brewing ● ●

BierWerks Brewery - Woodland Park ● ●

The Post Chicken and Beer ●

Crafty Canary Brewery - Walsenburg

Rock Cut Brewing Co

Peculier Ales ● ● _____________________________

Florence Brewing - Florence

FORT COLLINS

Iron Tree Restaurant and Funky Town Brewing - Florissant ●

Anheuser-Busch

Manitou Brewing - Manitou Springs ●

BJ’s ●

Mountain Merman Brewing - La Veta ●

Breckenridge Brewery

Paradox Beer Co - Divide ●

Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing ●

World’s End Brewing Co - Cañon City

Crooked Stave Brewing

COLORADO SPRINGS Atrevida Beer Co ● Battle Mountain Brewing ● Bell Brothers Brewing BJ’s ● Black Forest Brewing Co ● Brass Brewing Co ● Bristol Brewing ● Cerberus Brewing Co ● Cogstone Brewing Co ● ● Colorado Mountain Brewery ● Dueces Wild Brewery ● Father & Sons Brewery ● FH Beerworks ● Fossil Craft Beer Co ● Goat Patch Brewing Co ● JAKs Brewing Co ● Local Relic ● Lost Friend Brewing ● Mash Mechanix Brewing ● Metric Brewing ● Nano 108 ● OCC Brewing Peaks N Pines Brewing Co ●

CENTRAL COLORADO Browns Canyon Brewing - Buena Vista

El Rancho Brewery ● ●

The Colorado Farm Brewery

Evergreen Brewery ●

San Luis Valley Brewing ●

Lariat Lodge Brewing ● ●

Spare Keg Brewers

GLENWOOD SPRINGS AREA

Craft Mountain Brewing Co - Bailey

PAONIA

Brewzone Rifle ●

Eddyline Brewery - Buena Vista ●

Chrysalis Barrel Aged Beer

Casey Brewing and Blending

Elevation Beer Co - Poncha Springs ●

Paonia United Brewing Co ● _____________________________

Glenwood Canyon Brew Pub ●

HighSide Brewing - Fairplay South Park Brewing Co - Fairplay ●

NORTHEAST

T-Road Brewing Company - Crestone

The Horse and Frog - Holyoke ●

Two Mile Brewing Co - Leadville ●

Parts & Labor Brewing Co - Sterling ●

Gilded Goat Brewing Co ●

SALIDA

Tumbleweed Brewing & Wine - Yuma ● _____________________________

Hello Brewing Co

Moonlight Pizza & Brewpub ●

Horse & Dragon Brewing Co

Salida Brewing Co

NORTHWEST

Intersect Brewing ● ●

Soulcraft Brewing ●

Jessup Farm Barrel House ●

Tres Litros Beer Co ● _____________________________

DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery ● Equinox Brewing ● Funkwerks

Maxline Brewing ● ● Mythmaker Brewing ●

SOUTHWEST

New Belgium Brewing Co ● ●

Avalanche Brewing Co - Silverton ●

Obstacle Brewing and Grill ●

Bottom Shelf Brewery - Bayfield ●

Odell Brewing Co ● ●

Colorado Boy Brewery - Montrose, Ridgway ●

Peculier Ales Pitchers Brewery ● Prost Brewing Co Purpose Brewing Rally King Brewing Ramskeller Brewery ● Salt Road Brewing Snowbank Brewing Stodgy Brewing Co ● ● Verboten Brewing Co Zwei Brewing Co ● ●

Phantom Canyon ● ●

GREELEY

Pikes Peak Brewing Co ● ●

Crabtree Brewing ● ●

Red Leg Brewing ●

Rule 105 Brewing Co ●

Red Swing Brewhouse Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery ●

EVERGREEN

ALAMOSA

Dolores River Brewery - Dolores ● ●

Camber Brewing Co - Fraser Fraser River Beer Co - Fraser Grand Adventure Brewing - Kremmling Never Summer Brewing Co - Granby

GRAND JUNCTION Base Camp Beer Works Edgewater Brewery ● Foam & Folly Brewing Gemini Beer Co Kannah Creek Brewing Co ● Mama Ree’s Pizza and Brewhouse ● ● Ramblebine Brewing Co ● The Rockslide Restaurant and Brewery ● Trail Life Brewing

Smoking River Brewing Co - Meeker

GRAND MESA AREA

Vicious Cycle Brewing - Fraser ●

Base Camp Provisions - Fruita ●

World’s End Brewpub - Grand Lake

Copper Club Brewing Co - Fruita ●

Yampa Valley Brewing Co - Hayden

Palisade Brewing Co ● ●

Yampa Valley Taproom - Craig

Suds Brothers Brewery - Fruita ● ●

Golden Block Brewery - Silverton ●

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS

SUMMIT COUNTY

Horsefly Brewing Co - Montrose ● ●

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill ●

Angry James Brewing - Silverthorne

Lake City Brewing Co - Lake City ●

Mountain Tap Brewery ●

Breckenridge Brewery & Pub ●

Mancos Brewing Co - Mancos ●

Storm Peak Brewing Co

Broken Compass Brewing - Breck.

Pomona Brewing Co - Montrose ●

Yampa Valley Taproom

Dillon Dam Brewery - Dillon ● ●

WINTER PARK

HighSide Brewing - Breckenridge, Frisco ● ●

Silver Basin Brewing - Montrose Smuggler’s Union Brewpub - Telluride ● Spare Keg Brewers - Creede Stronghouse Brew Pub - Telluride Telluride Brewing Co - Telluride ● Three Barrel Brewing Co - Del Norte ●

Big Trout Brewing ● ● bigtroutbrewing.com 970.363.7362 50 Vasquez Rd Winter Park

Outer Range Brewing Co - Frisco ● Pug Ryan’s Brewery - Dillon ● Steep Brewing & Coffee - Keystone ● Syndicate Brewing Co - Silverthorne _____________________________

CORTEZ

Hideaway Park Brewery

DISTRIBUTION ONLY

Tightknit Brewing Co ● ●

J. Fargo’s Family Dining & Micro Brewery ●

The Noble Buck ● _____________________________

Backacre Beermakers

WeldWerks Brewing Co ●

Main Street Brewery & Restaurant ●

Storybook Brewing ●

Wiley Roots Brewing Co ●

WildEdge Brewing Collective ●

I-70 CORRIDOR

Crow Hop Brewing

Trinity Brewing ●

Yetters Brewing

Urban Animal Beer Co Voodoo Brewing Co ● Wackadoo Brewing Westfax Srpings Whistle Pig Brewing Co ● ●

Berthoud Brewing Co

Animas Brewing Co ●

Big Beaver Brewing Co ●

Carver Brewing Co ●

Big Thompson Brewery

High Trestle Brewing ● ●

City Star Brewing ●

Ska Brewing Co ● ● Steamworks Brewing Co ●

CENTRAL CITY/GEORGETOWN/ IDAHO SPRINGS

GUNNISON/CRESTED BUTTE

Cabin Creek Brewing - Georgetown ●

The Eldo Brewpub & Venue ● ●

Dostal Alley Saloon & Gambling Emporium - Central City ●

Crooked Beech Brewing Co Grimm Brothers Brewhouse

Reservoir Brewing Co ●

Loveland Aleworks ●

Shamrock Brewing ●

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery ●

Walter’s Brewery & Taproom ● _____________________________

Rock Coast Brewery ●

Timnath Beerwerks - Timnath ●

Mad Russian Brewing Co

Aspen Brewing Co ●

Anarchy Brewing

PUEBLO

Bulzomi Brewing - Eaton

Dive Bar Brewing Co

ASPEN AREA

LOVELAND/BERTHOUD

Brues Alehouse Brewing Co ● ●

N. FRONT RANGE

DURANGO

Sky Bear Brewery and Pub ● Verboten Brewing Co

WELLINGTON Old Colorado Brewing ● Sparge Brewing

High Alpine Brewing Co ●

Ceria Brewing

Carbondale Beer Works ● Capitol Creek Brewery ● Mountain Heart Brewing - Carbondale Westy's Tap & Tavern ●

New Planet Beer Primitive Beer Sleeping Giant Brewing Soul Squared Brewing

DISTILLERIES DENVER/BOULDER 52Eighty Distilling - Littleton

Irwin Brewing Co

Guanella Pass Brewing - Georgetown, Empire

Abbott & Wallace - Longmont ●

OURAY

Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub - Idaho Springs ●

Bear Creek Distillery - Denver ●

Colorado Boy Southwest Pub ● Ouray Brewery ●

Westbound & Down Brewing Co - Idaho Springs ●

EAGLE COUNTY Craftsman Brew Co- Edwards ●

September-October 2024

Ballmer Peak Distillery - Lakewood ● The Block Distilling Co - Denver Boulder Spirits by Vapor Distillery Boulder Branch & Barrel Distilling - Centennial

ThirstColorado.com 45

Copper Sky Distillery - Longmont

South Park Distilling - Fairplay

Colorado Vintners - Palisade

Deki Spirits - Lafayette

Spirits of the Rockies - Pueblo

Colterris Winery - Palisade ●

Denver Distillery - Denver Deviation Distilling - Denver Downslope Distilling - Centennial Dry Land Distillers - Longmont DV8 Distillery - Boulder ●

Woods High Mountain Distillery woodsdistillery.com 719.207.4315 144 W 1st Salida

The Family Jones Spirit House - Denver ●

Deroco Cellars - Palisade ● ●

Continental Divide Winery Breckenridge, Fairplay ● Mountain Spirit Winery - Salida Steamboat Winery - Steamboat Springs

Country Road Vines and Wines - Fort Morgan ●

Vines at Vail Winery - Wolcott

Mummy Hill Winery - Holyoke

Graystone Winery - Clifton

Vino Salida Wine Cellars - Poncha Springs ●

Reds Wine Boutique - Sterling

Gubbini Winery - Palisade

Winter Park Winery - Fraser

Evolve Wines - Clifton ● ● Grande River Vineyards - Palisade ●

Hermosa Vineyards - Palisade

Gold Dirt Distillery - Rollinsville ●

WESTERN SLOPE

Mafia Princess Winery - Grand Junction

Golden Moon Distillery - Golden

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits - Vail ●

Hogback Distillery - Boulder, Estes Park

Archetype Distillery - Vail, Gypsum

Maison la Belle Vie Winery & Amy’s Courtyard - Palisade ●

J & L Distilling Co - Boulder

Breckenridge Distillery - Breckenridge●●

Ironton Distillery - Denver ●

SOUTHERN FRONT RANGE Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose Bugling Elk Vineyards - Penrose

The Ordinary Fellow- Palisade

Evergood Elixirs - Palmer Lake ●

Clarke & Co’s Distilling - Palisade ●

Peachfork Orchards and Vineyards Palisade

Fountain Creek Winery - Fountain ●

Laws Whiskey House - Denver

Durango Craft Spirits - Durango

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade

Leopold Bros - Denver

Eagle River Whisky - Minturn

Restoration Vineyards - Palisade ● ●

Fraser Valley Distilling fraservalleydistilling.com 970.363.7792

Sauvage Spectrum - Palisade ● ●

Mad Rabbit Distillery - Westminster Mile High Spirits - Denver Molly Brown Spirits - Denver Mystic Mountain Distillery - Thornton Rising Sun Distillery - Denver Rocker Spirits - Littleton Spirit Hound Distillers - Denver, Lyons ● State 38 Distilling - Golden Stranahan’s - Denver Strongwater Spirits & Botanicals - Denver

410 Zerex St Fraser

Highlands Distillery - Grand Junction ● Honey House Distillery - Durango

PLAINS Claremont Inn & Winery - Stratton ●

Shiras Winery - Grand Junction ● Talon Winery - Palisade Two Rivers Winery - Grand Junction ● Two Swedes Glögg - Grand Junction TWP Winery & Farmhouse - Clifton ●

Latigo Winery - Black Forest Legatum Cellars - Canon City Manitou Winery - Manitou Springs ● Monte Cervino - Colorado Springs Pop’s Vineyard - Penrose ● The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey - Canon City ●

CENTRAL FRONT RANGE

DISTRIBUTION ONLY Bluejays Winery Fallen Mountain Wines Settembre Cellars Wild Mountain Cellars

CIDERIES 13° Brix Cider Bistro -Palisade ● Apple Valley Cider Co - Penrose Big B’s Fruit Co - Hotchkiss ● ● Boco Cider - Boulder ● Boxing Brothers Cider - Colo Springs Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose Clear Fork Cider - Paonia Climb Hard Cider Co - Loveland

Allis Ranch Winery - Sedalia

Idlewild Spirits Distillery- Winter Park ●

Varaison Vineyards and Winery Palisade ●

Aspen Peak Winery & Bistro - Bailey ● ●

Colorado Cider Co - Fort Collins, Lakewood ●

KJ Wood Distillers - Ouray

Vines 79 Wine Barn - Palisade

Attimo Wine - Denver

EsoTerra Cider - Durango, Delores ● ●

Marble Distilling Co - Carbondale ●

Whitewater Hill Vineyards - Grand Junction

Augustina’s Winery - Nederland

Fenceline Cider - Mancos ● ●

Montanya Distillers - Crested Butte

Balistreri Vineyards - Denver ●

Happy Hollow Hard Cider - Cedaredge

Talnua Distillery - Arvada

Peach Street Distillers - Palisade ●

WESTERN SLOPE

Bigsby’s Folly - Denver ●

Haykin Family Cider - Aurora

Tighe Brothers Distillery - Denver

Peak Spirits - Hotchkiss

5680' Vineyard - Paonia

Locust Cider - Fort Collins, Lakewood ●

Turnbuckle Distilling - Westminster

Pullman Distillery - Frisco ●

NORTHERN COLORADO

Stoneyard Distillery - Dotsero, Glenwood Springs

Alfred Eames Cellars at Puesta del Sol Vineyards - Paonia

Blanchard Family Wines - Denver, Golden ● Bonacquisti Wine Company - Denver ●

Azura Cellars - Paonia

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade ●

477 Distilling - Greeley ●

BookCliff Vineyards - Boulder ● ●

Storm King Distilling - Montrose

Berkeley Estate Cellars - Olathe

Snow Capped Cider - Cedaredge

Coppermuse Distillery - Fort Collins ●

Carboy Winery - Denver, Littleton ●

Stranahan’s Whiskey Lodge - Aspen

Black Bridge Winery - Paonia

St. Vrain Cidery - Longmont ●

Elevation 5003 Distillery - Fort Collins

Colorado Sake Co. - Denver ● ●

Telluride Distilling Co - Telluride

Chill Switch Wine - Cedaredge

Stem Ciders - Denver ● ●

Elkins Distilling Co - Estes Park

Creekside Cellars - Evergreen ●

Woody Creek Distillers - Basalt

Fallen Mountain Wines - Hotchkiss

Stem Ciders Acreage- Lafayette ● ●

Deep Roots Winery & Bistro - Denver ●●

Jack Rabbit Hill - Hotchkiss

Summit Hard Cider - Fort Collins ●

The Infinite Monkey Theorem - Denver ●

Lanoue DuBois Winery - Montrose

Talbott’s Cider Co - Palisade ● ●

InVINtions, A Creative Winery Greenwood Village

Waldschänke Ciders - Denver ●

Feisty Spirits - Fort Collins

DISTRIBUTION ONLY

Old Mine Cider Co - Erie ●

Gnebriated Gnome Distillery - Fort Collins

American Woman Spirit Co.

The Heart Distillery - Windsor ●

Anders’ Vodka

Mesa Winds Farm and Winery Hotchkiss ●

Mobb Mountain Distillers - Fort Collins

Arta Tequila

Mountain View Winery - Olathe

Mythology Distillery - Steamboat Springs

Conflagration Distilling

Ladrón Cellars - Englewood

Peony Lane Wine - Paonia

Coyote Gold Margaritas

Purgatory Cellars Winery - Parker

Qutori Wines - Paonia

Dirty Dill

Silver Vines Winery - Arvada, Boulder ● ●

Stone Cottage Cellars - Paonia ●

Felene Vodka

Spero Winery - Denver

Stoney Mesa Winery - Cedaredge ●

Kure’s Craft Beverage Co.

Taboche Winery - Broomfield

The Storm Cellar Winery - Hotchkiss ●

Locke & Co Distilling

Turquoise Mesa Winery - Broomfield

Williams Cellars - Cedaredge

Vinnie Fera - Boulder

FOUR CORNERS AREA

Water 2 Wine - Littleton ●

Durango Winery - Durango ● ●

The Wine Barrel - Parker

Flying T Wine - Cortez

NORTHERN FRONT RANGE

Four Leaves Winery - Durango ● ●

Bad Bitch Cellars - Eaton

Laughing Leprechaun Meadery Distribution Only

Fox Fire Farms - Ignacio ●

Blanchard Family Wines - Fort Collins ●

Meadery of the Rockies - Palisade

Sauvage Spectrum - Ouray ●

Meadkrieger - Loveland ● ●

GRAND JUNCTION AREA

Blendings Winery - Fort Collins

Sutcliffe Vineyards - Cortez ●

Miracle Stag Meadery - Distribution Only

Avant Vineyards - Palisade

Blue Mountain Vineyards - Berthoud

Yellow Car Country Wines - Cortez ●

Snowy Peaks Winery - Estes Park ● ●

Queen Bee Brews - Denver

Sweet Heart Winery - Loveland ●

Redstone Meadery - Boulder

CENTRAL MOUNTAINS

Tamburi Wine - Fort Collins

Slaymaker Cellars - Idaho Springs

Aquila Cellars - Carbondale ●

Ten Bears Winery - Laporte ●

Yellow Car Country Wines - Cortez ●

Buckel Family Wine - Crested Butte

The OBC Wine Project - Fort Collins ●

NOCO Distillery - Fort Collins Old Elk Distillery - Fort Collins ● Old Town Distilling - Fort Collins Seed & Spirit Distilling - Fort Collins Spring 44 Distilling - Loveland Syntax Distillery - Greeley ●

Tincup Whiskey Tingala

SOUTHERN COLORADO

Vanjak Vodka

1350 Distilling - Colo. Springs ●

Western Medicine Spirits

1874 Distilling - Del Norte ● ● 3 Hundred Days of Shine - Monument ● Art of the Spirits - Colorado Springs Axe and the Oak - Colo. Springs Black Bear Distillery - Green Mountain Falls

WINERIES The Blue Beryl Winery - Palisade

Blackhat Distillery - Colo. Springs

BookCliff Vineyards - Palisade

Deerhammer Distilling - Buena Vista ●

Carboy Winery - Palisade ●

Distillery 291 - Colo. Springs

Carlson Vineyards - Palisade

Dune Valley Distillery - Mosca

Carlson Tasting Room - Grand Junction

Meridiem Spirits - Elizabeth

Centennial Cellars - Palisade

Snitching Lady Distillery - Fairplay ●

Colorado Cellars Winery - Palisade ●

46 ThirstColorado.com September-October 2024

Carbone Winery - Mosca ● Carboy Winery - Breckenridge ●

Kingman Estates Winery - Denver ●

Wild Cider - Firestone ●

MEADERIES Alpenglow at the Granary - Hayden ● Antelope Ridge Mead - Colorado Springs Brush Hollow Winery - Penrose Colorado Cellars Winery - Palisade ● Dragon Meadery - Aurora Drekar Meadery - Colorado Springs Honnibrook Meadery - Castle Rock ● ● Hunters Moon Meadery - Severance

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September-October 2024

ThirstColorado.com 47

m a i F l y r u to Yo O m u o r r s F

We believe that high quality, delicious beef is even better when it’s done locally.

We carry ribeye steaks, beef jerky, prime rib, brisket, beef sticks, steak sauce, ground beef, and tons of other options for dinner! We also make it easy to have beef shipped directly to your door!

RETAIL LOCATIONS Centennial Cuts Mercantile Belmar 408 South Teller St. Lakewood, CO 80226 Open Daily 11am to 6pm (720) 627-5612

Centennial Cuts Mercantile Old Colorado City 2520 1/2 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Open Daily 11am to 6pm (719) 394-4268

Centennial Cuts at Denver International Airport 8500 Peña Boulevard, Denver, CO 80249 Gate B29 and Gate A34 Open Sunday-Friday 7am to 9pm

Centennial Cuts centennialcuts.com