Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Colorado, Black Forest is known for its towering pine trees, peaceful surroundings, and proximity to some of the region’s best wineries. While Colorado may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine country, the state’s high elevation, cool nights, and diverse soil conditions make it an ideal location for growing flavorful grapes. If you’re looking to explore the local wine scene near Black Forest, CO, here are some exceptional wineries that offer incredible tastings, scenic views, and a welcoming atmosphere.
1. The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
One of the most well-known wineries in the region, The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey is a must-visit for wine lovers. Originally founded by Benedictine monks, this winery has evolved into an award-winning destination known for its handcrafted wines. The scenic location, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, offers a peaceful escape from the city. The tasting room features a wide variety of wines, from robust reds like their Cabernet Sauvignon to crisp whites like the Riesling. One of their most popular offerings is the Colorado Cab Franc, which has won multiple awards for its rich, smooth finish. Visitors can enjoy tastings, participate in special events, or bring a picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds.
2. Evergood Adventure Wines
For those looking for a unique twist on traditional winemaking, Evergood Adventure Wines is a must-visit. Unlike most wineries, Evergood specializes in lemon-based wines, offering a refreshing and citrusy alternative to grape wines. Their standout selections include Ski Bum, a dry, tangy lemon wine, and Switch Stance, a sweet and smooth lemonade-style wine. This winery is perfect for those who enjoy adventurous flavors or want a light, summery drink. The tasting room is casual and inviting, making it an excellent stop for a relaxed afternoon with friends.
3. Sweet Heart Winery & Event Center
Though a bit farther from Black Forest, Sweet Heart Winery in Loveland is worth the drive for its stunning location along the banks of the Big Thompson River. The winery is known for producing high-quality, handcrafted wines with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Some of their most popular wines include the Zinfandel, a smooth and well-balanced red wine, and the White Wine Blend, a crisp and refreshing white blend. The winery also serves small bites to pair with tastings, making it a great place for a leisurely visit. With its romantic setting, Sweetheart Winery is also a popular venue for weddings and special events.
4. Vino Salida Wine Cellars
A hidden gem in the heart of Colorado, Vino Salida Wine Cellars is known for its handcrafted wines made with locally grown grapes. This small winery prides itself on sustainable winemaking practices and a strong connection to the Colorado community. Visitors can try a variety of wines, including their Vino Rosso Di Salida, a unique red wine aged in oak barrels for 12 months, and their Bee Vino Mead, a delightful honey wine infused with local flavors. The winery offers a cozy tasting room and friendly staff who are happy to share insights into their winemaking process.
5. Antelope Ridge Mead
If you're interested in mead, Antelope Ridge Mead is a fantastic place to explore. This meadery specialize in craft meads made with high-quality honey and natural ingredients, offering a wide range of flavors, from dry and complex to sweet and fruity. Popular varieties include their Raspberry Passion Mead, which balances tart berries with smooth honey notes, and their Vanilla Oak Mead, a rich, aged option with hints of caramel and spice. The tasting room provides an intimate setting where guests can sample unique meads while learning about the fermentation process.
6. Drekar Meadery
For those looking for Viking-inspired mead, Drekar Meadery is a must-visit. This small but passionate meadery focuses on traditional and experimental mead styles, creating drinks that are both historic and innovative. Standout meads include their Traditional Mead, made with pure Colorado honey, and their Blueberry Lavender Mead, which offers a floral and fruity twist. The meadery embraces an old-world atmosphere, making it a great place for history buffs and mead lovers alike.
7. Manitou Winery
Nestled in the artistic town of Manitou Springs, Manitou Winery is a charming boutique winery offering handcrafted Colorado wines. The winery focuses on small-batch production, ensuring high quality and unique flavor profiles. Their Pikes Peak Red Blend is a local favorite, featuring a bold and smooth taste perfect for pairing with hearty meals. For white wine lovers, their Summit Chardonnay is crisp and refreshing. The tasting room provides a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and the winery frequently hosts live music and special events.
8. Honnibrook Craft Meadery
One of the most award-winning meaderies in Colorado, Honnibrook Craft Meadery is known for its innovative and flavorful honey-based wines. With a dedication to high-quality ingredients, Honnibrook crafts meads that appeal to both traditionalists and modern drinkers. Favorites include their Chocolate Hazelnut Mead, a dessert-like mead with rich, velvety flavors, and their Hive Mojito for a unique twist. The welcoming tasting room and friendly staff make it a great place to discover new flavors.
The wineries near Black Forest offer a fantastic variety of flavors, settings, and experiences for wine lovers. Whether you prefer a classic vineyard setting, a unique meadery, or a modern urban winery, there is something for everyone within a short drive of this scenic community.
Call Black Forest Home
For those looking to make Black Forest their home, real estate expert
John Chudzinski is here to help. With his deep knowledge of the area and commitment to finding the perfect home for his clients, John can guide you through the process of buying or investing in this beautiful region. Reach out today to start your journey in Black Forest.