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Thirty years ago, the idea of growing grapes and making wine in Western Colorado began with a clue from the area's past. Around the turn of the century, almost 50 farms produced nearly 1,800 gallons of wine - however, Colorado "went dry" in 1916, four years before National Prohibition after which the vineyards were destroyed. But Western Colorado's moderate winters and arid climate make for near-perfect grape-growing conditions and a group of visionaries decided to return the vineyards to the area in the late 1960s. Since the mid-70's Colorado wineries have increased from only one to more than 70.

After making wine at home from Colorado grapes in 1986 with two Denver friends, Stephen Smith began planting grapes commercially in the Palisade area in 1987. He opened Grande River Vineyards winery in 1990 with one-third of his first crop. With Vineyard Manager Jim Mayrose in charge of all farming, every summer a healthy crop of fruitful grape clusters is harvested from our beautiful vineyards.

We have established one of the best-quality vineyards in the state. We grow grapes for our wine and purchase grapes from other vineyards.

Grande River Winery has approximately 50,000 gallons of fermentation and storage capacity including 300 to 350 French and American oak barrels as well as some Hungarian oak barrels. We also have 26,000 gallons of tank capacity; we produce 5,000-7,000 cases of wine annually.

The winery and vineyard, nestled beneath the Bookcliffs, which tower 2,000 feet above the vineyard. The buttes & mesas radiate warmth down to our vines to ripen the crop to perfection in the late-August through October harvest and protect the vines from severe winter freezes and spring frosts.

Grande River Wines is a member of the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce, the Colorado Wine Board and the Palisade Chamber of Commerce.