Aspen Welcomes a New Local Winemaker: Exploring the Cloud Wine Experience

The time between the loading and unloading of Lift 1A might appear brief, but it proved sufficient for Greg Van Wagner, a local sommelier, to dream up a wine-making collaboration that would soon blossom into Ajax Cellars. Having spent 13 years in the Roaring Fork Valley, Van Wagner decided to focus his new venture on wines exclusive to locals, stating, “It’s wine that’s unique to this valley. It’s not readily available elsewhere. As much as possible, I’d like to keep it that way.”

Van Wagner’s journey into wine began in Colorado when he was sponsored as a road biker and aspired to compete in the Tour de France. A job at Boulder’s renowned Frasca introduced him to the “amazing world of wine,” leading him to relocate to Aspen in 2012 as the opening maître d’ of Element 47 at The Little Nell.

During his tenure as a sommelier, he met Joe Bucket and Evan Martin, who inspired him to explore wine production. Martin, founder of Martin Woods Winery, shared memories of riding the 1A lift with Van Wagner, which later influenced their collaborative venture. The limited-edition wines, branded with that same lift, are sold primarily in Colorado.

As they join forces, Martin handles wine production while Van Wagner takes charge of sales throughout the valley. Additionally, Van Wagner sources grapes from Martin’s Willamette Valley winery and engages with a Colorado vineyard known for the highest Riesling, distinguishing his offerings.

The wines also showcase a Maroon Bells label, echoing Van Wagner’s passion for cycling and the breathtaking views that accompany his rides up the mountains. “Every time I ride up to the Bells, it never gets old,” he reflects, acknowledging their enduring beauty.

Looking ahead, Van Wagner aims to prioritize quality and the preferences of local consumers. Martin adds that true wine "power" stems not just from its characteristics, but from its ability to create lasting memories and emotional connections with drinkers. Ajax Cellars wines are becoming favorites among locals and can be found at various outlets across the valley, including Of Grape and Grain, Aspen Wine & Spirits, and Hotel Jerome.

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!