Southern Colorado Wine Makes History as It’s Featured at Yellowstone National Park Menu

Wine produced in Southern Colorado is making its debut at Yellowstone National Park this year, marking a significant milestone for the state’s wine industry. The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, established by Catholic monks in Cañon City, has gained national recognition with its wines now served in several restaurants and lodges, including the historic Old Faithful Inn.

Larry Oddo, owner and CEO of The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, emphasized the importance of this development, stating it represents the first time a Colorado wine has been distributed out of state on a significant wholesale basis. Three selections, a merlot, a syrah, and a red blend named The Theurgist, will appear on the wine lists of renowned dining locations within the national park.

The 2022 Merlot, crafted from grapes sourced from Palisade, offers a mid to full-bodied profile with notes of cherry, making it ideal for pairing with red meats. The 2020 Petite Syrah showcases a French Rhone Valley style, featuring rich fruit and spice flavors, perfect alongside game meats. Meanwhile, The Theurgist blends various grape types, including the innovative Petite Pearl, conceived in a university lab to thrive despite climate challenges.

Oddo revealed that the winery’s experimental line, “As Above, So Below,” was initiated in 2020 to incorporate non-traditional grape varieties into their wines. This approach facilitates the production of approachable wines while adapting to changes within the local climate.

Despite a cooler climate in Southern Colorado affecting grape cultivation, the winery collaborates with local growers, producing a unique blend titled Wild Canyon Harvest from multiple varietals sourced from smaller-scale growers. This helps sustain the winery amid market challenges, especially following recent legislation allowing wine sales in grocery stores, which has disrupted traditional liquor shop revenue.

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey expects to produce around 6,000 cases this year, a decline from previous years due to a shifting market and reduced tourism. Oddo remains committed to creating an inclusive wine-tasting environment, hoping to connect with a broader audience and keep the tradition of Colorado winemaking alive.

For more information, visit The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!