CAVE Launches Colorado Cru, First Statewide Initiative Elevating Colorado Wine and Tourism (WIN)

Press Release
March 6, 2026

The Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) proudly announces the launch of Colorado Cru, Colorado’s first statewide wine initiative designed to showcase the state’s distinctive viticulture, elevate winemaking excellence, and strengthen wine tourism across Colorado.

Launched in concert with the America 250/Colorado 150 campaign, Colorado Cru celebrates the state’s rich agricultural heritage and 150 years of Colorado statehood, highlighting the craftsmanship, innovation, and distinctiveness of locally produced wines as part of this historic milestone.

Developed through a collaborative stakeholder process with vineyards, winemakers, and the Colorado Tourism Office, Colorado Cru establishes a unified identity for wines “Crafted in Colorado” while allowing individual wineries the creative freedom to express their unique style.

A Collaborative Foundation Rooted in Colorado’s Viticultural Legacy

Through extensive industry engagement, six grape varietals with historical and commercial significance in Colorado were selected as the foundation for Colorado Cru blends:

  • Red Varietals: Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Chambourcin
  • White Varietals: Riesling, Traminette, Chardonnay

To preserve authenticity while encouraging innovation, participating wineries may incorporate additional grape varietals; however, at least one or a combination of the approved six varietals must be the predominant component of the final blend. This standard ensures a recognizable Colorado Cru identity while maintaining stylistic flexibility for winemakers.

Colorado Cru: First Designations & Ongoing Opportunity

The first group of wines has successfully completed technical analysis and professional review, earning the official Colorado Cru designation. Additional wineries will have the opportunity to participate in future vintages, making Colorado Cru a dynamic, ongoing initiative that continues to grow Colorado’s reputation for premium, locally crafted wines.

Technical Excellence & Professional Evaluation

To support quality and education, CAVE partnered with ETS Laboratories to provide complimentary technical analysis for submitted wines. Each wine then underwent professional evaluation. Wines meeting rigorous quality standards were designated as official Colorado Cru wines and are authorized to carry the signature Colorado Cru label for consumer recognition.

Wineries & Wines Awarded Colorado Cru Designation

After completing technical analysis and professional review, the following Colorado wineries and wines have earned the official Colorado Cru designation. Consumers can identify these wines by the Colorado Cru designation on the bottle, experience them directly in the wineries’ tasting rooms, or ask their local liquor store or restaurant about carrying these exceptional Colorado wines.

Tourism & Market Impact

Colorado Cru establishes a unified standard that elevates Colorado’s reputation in the national wine conversation.

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