Whiskey, Wine, & Beer in Colorado

RE-PRINT - Views on the Village, 2012

Having just returned from a glorious trip to the Napa Valley, I'm in the mood to appreciate some local quality spirits.  Coloradans are probably learning that the Denver-Ft. Collins area is developing a reputation as the Napa Valley of Beer.  Of course, there's more to the area than ales and pilsners, but Denver is really putting itself on the map for high quality craft beers.  For those in the area who have never sampled the local flavors - from our microbrew industry to the Western Slope wines to spirits such as Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey - the Denver Post has offered a great guide.

In a special feature to the Post, local writer Erin Barnes has put together an excellent breakdown of the 11 Best Tasting Rooms in Colorado.  This moves beyond the wines of Palisade and New Belgium in Ft. Collins - though those are still worth the time.  Additionally, you might want to consider such spots as Silver Vines Winery in Arvada, Breckenridge Brewery in Breck or Denver, Stranahans Colorado Whiskey, or Equinox in Ft. Collins.  These all sound like they are worth the trip - though probably not all at the same time.

And, definitely, bring a designated driver or take a cab.