Steve Smith, owner and winemaker of Grand River Vineyards in Palisade, Colorado was instrumental along with others in the development of vineyards and wineries in the Palisade area of the Grand Valley AVA. There are fourteen wineries to visit in this majestic scenic area. However, until recently there were few lodging possibilities. That changed this fall with the opening of the first hotel, the eighty room Wine Country Inn. This inn was built in a vineyard owned by Steve who sold a section of vineyards to Richard and Jean Tally. The Tallys dreamed of a first class hotel built near the wineries in Palisade.

The Wine Country Inn is set on seven and a half acres adjacent to Grand River Vineyards. The inn also has its share of vineyards. Vineyards that had been destroyed by construction equipment have been replanted. The inn is an island surrounded by vineyards. Nearby the Bookcliffs tower over the inn, providing one of the most scenic areas on the planet. The vineyards are used to produce wine for the Wine Country Inn. Presently four wines are made with the Wine Country Inn’s grapes. The Meritage White is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The wine has a pale light color with a light floral and citrus aroma. The crisp citrus taste dries on the finish. The Ten Acre Red is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. It presents a blackberry and plum aroma and taste and a fruity finish with soft tannins. The Wine Country Inn also produces a Chardonnay and Merlot.

Palisade, Colorado may very well become the next Napa. It is incredibly beautiful with many vineyards and wineries for people to visit. Now there is a great hotel to meet lodging needs. There are so many wineries within a short distance of the hotel that outdoor enthusiasts may elect to ride bikes to the wineries. Check out this area of Colorado.