As the summer season approaches, one winery in Palisade is gearing up for what promises to be another busy and exciting few months. Restoration Vineyards, a family-owned business nestled in the heart of Colorado’s wine country, is preparing to welcome guests, share their handcrafted wines, and showcase the hard work that has gone into every bottle.

Ready for the Summer Rush

Located on 10 acres with 10,000 vines, Restoration Vineyards is headed into its seventh year of operation, and despite the challenges of unpredictable weather, it seems ready to face the busy summer season. The vineyard’s winemaker and owner, Gary Brauns, is optimistic as the growing season ramps up.

“We did have some freezes, but luckily our vines were not impacted because they were still dormant,” Brauns explained. The early spring freezes, while a concern for many wineries, have not damaged their crops so far. Although the weather can still fluctuate, particularly before Mother’s Day, things are looking promising for the upcoming season.

For wineries like Restoration Vineyards, the summer months aren’t just about growing grapes—they are a time for showcasing the results of months, even years, of hard work. Visitors will soon flock to the vineyards, enjoying the warm weather while sipping on wines that have been carefully crafted over time.

Behind the Scenes: Bottling and Preparing for the Future

While much of the excitement for wineries is tied to the warmer weather and the influx of visitors, the behind-the-scenes work is just as critical. According to Linda Braun, co-owner and winemaker at Restoration Vineyards, winemaking is a year-round operation.

“Right now, we are bottling, so we’ll probably bottle a few thousand bottles today,” she said, referring to the cycle of bottling that happens every year at this time. The process, however, is far from simple. From the time the grapes are harvested until the wine reaches the bottle, it can take anywhere from three to four years.

The Brauns are particularly proud of their approach to winemaking, which remains rooted in tradition. Unlike many larger wineries that use heavy machinery, Restoration Vineyards runs a small, hands-on operation where all grapes are picked by hand.

“Wine is a very long process,” Linda Braun explained. “We do not use any machines, so a lot of people come in and help us.” This labor-intensive process is what makes the vineyard’s wines stand out: each bottle represents a careful, personal touch.

The Community Connection: Wine and Events

For Restoration Vineyards, the summer months are also a time to connect with the local community. They are one of over 30 wineries in Palisade, and they know how vital it is to stand out and create memorable experiences for visitors.

The winery is open seven days a week, and in addition to regular tastings, they host a number of special events throughout the summer. From lawn gatherings to live music and private tours, there’s always something happening at the vineyard. These events not only showcase their wines but also create a welcoming space for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the area’s charm.

“We’re looking forward to sharing our local wine with others who have not experienced it before,” Gary Braun said. “It’s all about creating a personal connection with our visitors. After all, winemaking is a labor of love, and we want others to feel that passion.”

For more details about their upcoming events, guests are encouraged to visit their website. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking to enjoy the beautiful Palisade landscape, Restoration Vineyards offers something special for everyone.

The Bigger Picture for Palisade’s Wine Industry

Palisade has long been known for its rich soil and ideal climate for growing grapes, making it a hub for wine production in Colorado. Restoration Vineyards, though small, is a prime example of the kind of dedication and craftsmanship that drives the success of the local wine industry.

With over 30 wineries in the region, Palisade has become a go-to destination for wine lovers looking to explore the variety and quality of wines made in the Grand Valley. The small-town charm of Palisade combined with its world-class wine offerings ensures that the region will continue to thrive in the summer months, attracting tourists from all over.