Introducing Rowdy Red Wine from CMU (The Daily Sentinel)

Christine Gallagher
February 14, 2026

I had fun learning about a unique collaboration between Colorado Mesa University, CMU Tech, and Carlson Vineyards. They have created a delightful red wine blend called “Rowdy Red” in honor of CMU’s mascot, Rowdy.

CMU Tech has the state’s first winemaking program and a new Director — Garrett Portra. He is also the owner of Carlson Vineyards in Palisade and was hired to teach students about winemaking, business and more.

 Haley Hahn, the Community Relations and Communications Manager for CMU noted that they are, “in a unique position to provide students with the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of wine making and grape growing through the CMU Tech Viticulture and Enology program. Colorado’s wine industry is one of the fastest-growing and unique areas of agri-business in the state. With about 150 wineries and more than 1,000 acres of vineyards, the business of growing grapes (viticulture) and making wine (enology) plays an increasingly important role in the state and local economies.”
 

I had a great time talking with Portra about the program and their new Rowdy Red wine. Director Portra is enthusiastic about the V&E (Viticulture and Enology) program at the CMU Tech campus. He told me that his students come from a variety of backgrounds and ages — including students in their 20’s, military veterans in their 40’s and others working on a traditional four year degree.

Did you know that you can take these courses at CMU Tech too? Reach out to CMU Tech online or by calling 970-255-2600 to learn more details. They even have opportunities for people sixty and older to take discounted classes through their Golden Scholars Program. What a fun and interesting learning experience!

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