Wine Tasting in Colorado

The Wine Country Inn Offers Convenient Access to Local Wineries

Apr 19, 2009

The Centennial state is known for its skiing and national parks, but for those interested in a less-active, more relaxing trip, wine tasting is a pleasurable alternative.

A comfortable and affordable home base for checking out the wineries in the Palisade area is the 80-room Wine County Inn.

Charming Winery Accomodation

Promoted as Colorado's first wine-themed hotel, the Victorian-inspired accommodation opened its doors in August, 2008, and is surrounded by a 21-acre vineyard on the property. Visitors can take a seat on a porch rocking chair while indulging in a glass of vino and enjoying the view of a massive red rock wall or curl up next to the lobby fireplace and catch the news on the large flat screen TV. Get to know the area by flipping through the hotel copy of the Grand Valley magazine or Grand Junction Free Press newspaper.

Room with a View of Vineyards

Room rates average between $89 and $285 (depending on time of year and availability) and include the following:

Taste Local Wines

Although the hotel does not have a restaurant, the town of Palisade is only a few minutes drive away and has a few options for lunch and dinner. Ask the front desk for menus. The hotel does offer a free buffet breakfast that includes waffles, eggs, cereal, bagels and more.

Shop, Swim or Sweat

Guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool or jacuzzi, get some exercise in the small workout room, check their e-mail at the business center, or shop for snacks or souvenirs at the gift shop.

Bonus Amenities

• For those who have to be plugged in, the hotel has free wireless Internet access.

• For weekend visitors, be sure to take advantage of the free afternoon wine reception that takes place from 5-6 p.m. and features four wines bottled specifically for the Wine Country Inn: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and a Cabernet/Merlot mix. Tastings and one glass are free. Additional glasses are $5.00. Appetizers are also served, which include cheese, crackers, pretzels, dried fruit and more.

Word to the Wise

• The mini-frig in the room can be a bit loud. It might be a good idea to unplug it to get a good night's sleep.

Activities In the Area

The Palisade area is home to over a dozen wineries. Two of the wineries are within walking distance of the Wine Country Inn. Check out http://www.coloradowine.com for a map of wineries in the Palisade area.

Contact Information

Wine Country Inn

The copyright of the article Wine Tasting in Colorado in Colorado Travel is owned by Sharael Kolberg. Permission to republish Wine Tasting in Colorado in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.