Each year, The Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) presents an Award of Excellence for Winery of the Year. This year, Restoration Vineyards in Palisade earned the distinction.

“We are honored to be recognized by our peers, many of whom have inspired us. It’s great to be contributing towards increasing the visibility of Colorado wine,” says Gary Brauns, owner and “chief restoration officer.”

Just a few minutes from the Colorado River, Restoration Vineyards is a 10-acre, family-owned winery and vineyard growing barbera, cabernet franc, chardonnay, merlot, sauvignon blanc and sémillon grapes, which were planted starting in 2007. However, when Brauns and his wife Linda bought the vineyard in 2012 it was in need of a revamp. In addition to producing limited intervention, and quality wines, the goal was to build a community and an inviting experience with outdoor live music and a welcoming staff. 

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