Wine tastings bring in browsers (and buyers) in Woodland Park
Deb Nichols was missing business opportunities and she did something about it.
Nichols, owner of Cowbells Western Interiors in Woodland Park, was tired of watching traffic whiz by her interior decorating shop. She decided to take a chance on opening a wine tasting room as a way to lure in customers.
“Ben and Jamie (Caperton), who own The Cellar Door, had opened a tasting room about four years ago,” she said. “I was the next to open a tasting room featuring Cottonwood Cellars and the ball began to roll.”
She’s referring to the fact that there are now seven wine tasting rooms within walking distance along the busy highway heading up into the mountains. And there is an eighth set to open mid-July.
“The interest, for me at least, was to get people into my shop,” she said. “We do a Third Friday Artwalk that is well attended every month and the ‘wine’ carrot works.”
According to Colorado liquor laws, wineries can each have five tasting rooms in the state. Most of the wineries that shop owners have selected are small production boutique operations. As a result, many of the wines are not easily found unless you visit the winery.
“Colorado wine is kicking some serious butt,” Ben Caperton said. “Having several tasting rooms featuring a different Colorado wine is great for locals and tourists to experience these wines without having to go to the winery.”
Here’s a look at the unique shops in Woodland Park that have created an easy way to sip, shop and relax. Most of the tasting rooms offer three to six tastes for $5. You can buy wine by the glass, bottle or case. You’ll find parking behind the shops.
• Cowbells Western Interiors, 214 W. Midland Ave., features Cottonwood Cellars at their Saddle Up Bar. The bar stools are actual saddles. If you’re not in the mood to hitch a leg over the saddle, you can relax in comfy chairs and sofas. Visit cowbellsgifts.com. Call 687-4334.
• The Cellar Door, 102 W. Midland Ave., pours Aspen Peak Cellars in their cozy tasting room or take a glass to sip by the fireplace. Visit thecellardoorwp.com. Call 686-1409.
• Vintage Vines - A Ladies Consignment Shop, 108 W. Midland Ave., offers wines from The Meadery where you enjoy vino while admiring vintage clothing. Proprietor Jan Cummer also operates a Curves fitness center upstairs — in case you feel the need for a workout. Call 687-4046.
• Mountain Rains Gallery, 220 W. Midland Ave., features Dithyramb Winery in their gallery. Visit mountainrains.vpweb.com. Call 641-1557.
• Studio West Aveda, 216 W. Midland Ave., pours Spring Creek Vineyards while you get your hair styled or nails pampered. Visit studiowestaveda.com. Call 687-2599.
• Brenda’s Boutique and Consignment, 102 E. Midland Ave., offers Mountain View Winery in a small tasting room with a window showing off a stunning view of Pikes Peak. Call 687-8452.
• Seven Arrows Gallery, 118 W. Midland Ave., features Turquoise Mesa Winery in an elegant art gallery setting. Visit 7arrowsgallery.com. Call 302-2282.
• Windows of Heaven, 108 N. Park St., will offer Ten Bears Winerywhile you shop for Christian books and gifts. The wine tasting area will open in July. Visit windowsofheavenwp.com. Call 686-0797.
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Contact Teresa J. Farney at 636-0271, Twitter @tffoodie, Facebook Teresa Farney