WELCOME!
Nestled in the heart of Paonia, Colorado, the Painted Vineyard is a testament to passion, hard work, and the love of exceptional wine. Our journey began in 2015 when we purchased an open horse field with a vision to create something truly special. What started as a dream has blossomed into a thriving vineyard and winery, offering a unique and unforgettable experience to all who visit.
Our Story
In 2015, we found ourselves captivated by the beauty of Paonia’s rich soil, stunning landscapes, and welcoming community. With a clear vision and unwavering determination, we set out to transform this land into a flourishing vineyard. Over the years, we have meticulously restored two log cabins on the property, preserving their charm while breathing new life into them. One of the cabins can now be enjoyed as our new four-bedroom B&B. Every vine was lovingly planted by hand, ensuring that our vineyard is rooted in dedication and care.
Supporting Pollinators
We love pollinators and understand their vital role in our ecosystem. To encourage a healthy bee population, we have planted a variety of plants throughout the property, including lavender, which attracts and supports these beautiful pollinators. Our efforts contribute to the health of our vineyard and the surrounding environment, fostering biodiversity and ensuring the prosperity of our crops.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
We believe in nurturing the land with the utmost respect and care, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. Our vineyard is as organic as it gets, allowing the natural flavors of our grapes to shine through in every bottle of wine we produce. This commitment extends to our robust fruit orchard, where we have planted and nurtured a variety of trees, including apple, plum, pear, Italian plum, Elberta peach, and cherry. Our approach ensures that our wines and fruits are not only delicious but also kind to the environment.
Our Wines
We take pride in producing a diverse range of wines that reflect the unique terroir of Paonia. From robust reds to crisp whites, our wines are a true expression of the land’s character and our dedication to winemaking. We invite you to explore our selection, discover your favorites, and experience the flavors that make our vineyard so special.
Our Facilities
As part of our commitment to excellence, we built a well-equipped winery, a wine cellar, and an inviting tasting room. These facilities are designed to enhance your experience, allowing you to see firsthand the artistry and precision that goes into every bottle of our wine. Our tasting room offers a cozy and elegant space where you can savor our wines; each crafted with the utmost attention to detail and a deep respect for the land.
The Art of Real Oak Barrels
We embrace the time-honored tradition of aging our wines in real oak barrels, a practice that enriches each bottle with unparalleled depth and character. Oak barrels impart subtle flavors and complexities, such as hints of vanilla, spice, and toasted nuts, while also allowing the wine to evolve gracefully over time. The porous nature of oak facilitates slow oxidation, which helps to soften tannins and enhance the wine’s structure and balance.
Each barrel contributes its unique qualities, influenced by the type of oak and the length of aging, resulting in wines with distinct, nuanced profiles. This meticulous process not only enhances the richness and complexity of our wines but also ensures a refined, smooth finish. Discover the difference that aging in real oak barrels makes and savor the craftsmanship of the Painted Vineyard’s wines.
The Charm of Unfiltered Wine
We take pride in producing unfiltered wines that offer a truly authentic and natural expression of our grapes. Unfiltered wine preserves the character, complexity, and depth of the wine by retaining the natural particles and sediments that are often removed in the filtering process. This approach not only enhances the rich flavors and aromas but also maintains the beneficial compounds and antioxidants found in the wine.
However, because our wines are unfiltered, you may notice some sediment in the bottle. This sediment is harmless and a testament to the wine’s natural state. Simply decanting the wine or pouring it carefully will allow you to enjoy the full-bodied taste and unique texture that unfiltered wine provides. Embrace the natural beauty of unfiltered wine and experience the pure, unadulterated flavors that reflect our commitment to quality and tradition at the Painted Vineyard.
History of the Black Bridge
The Black Bridge is a landmark steeped in history and charm. Originally built in the early 20th century, it is rumored that this picturesque bridge was shipped from Europe in 1939. Bridging the North Fork of the Gunnison River and situated at our front gate, this bridge serves as a vital link for locals and travelers alike. Its striking black iron structure, which gives it its name, has withstood the test of time, becoming a symbol of the town’s resilience and rich heritage. Today, the Black Bridge stands as a beloved piece of Paonia’s history, offering stunning views and a touch of nostalgia to all who cross it.
Our Community
We are incredibly grateful for the support and warmth of the Paonia community. It is this sense of belonging and shared passion for quality that inspires us every day. We are proud to be a part of this vibrant region and to contribute to its rich tradition of agriculture and winemaking.
Discover the warmth of Paonia’s rich community and elevate your wine experience in the West Elks AVA. With its charming local spirit, vibrant wineries, and bountiful orchards, Paonia offers a unique blend of camaraderie and exceptional flavors. Explore the region’s diverse offerings and savor a taste of the true essence of Colorado.
Visit Us
We welcome you to visit the Painted Vineyard and experience the magic of our vineyard for yourself. Take a leisurely stroll through our meticulously maintained property, tour our restored log cabin, and enjoy a tasting in our beautiful tasting room. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or new to the world of wine, we promise a memorable visit filled with notable wines and heartfelt hospitality.
We look forward to sharing our passion with you!