The Western Colorado local guide

Good days begin with knowing where you are.

Stories, local discoveries, and happenings from Paonia and the North Fork Valley.

Friends enjoying wine together outside a Western Colorado tasting room

Wine Country News September 6, 2026 3 min read

Featured story

West Elks named No. 2 wine region in the U.S.

National recognition for a place worth getting to know. Discover the Colorado wine region that earned No. 2 in USA TODAY’s 2026 Readers’ Choice awards.

Read the story

From the Journal

A useful way into the region.

Practical guides, seasonal ideas, and local discoveries to help you plan your time in wine country.

Two visitors holding wine glasses at an outdoor vineyard table with mountains behind them.

Planning Your Tour 4 min read

A Wine Tour for Two in Paonia: A Day That Suits You Both

A good day for two starts with a few shared choices: the pace, the wines you’re curious about, and how much of the day you want to spend exploring.

Read the story

Wine barrels beneath curved cellar arches.

Wine Country Guides 5 min read

Your First Wine Tasting in Paonia: What to Expect

A friendly introduction to tasting flights, useful wine terms and questions to ask on your first visit to Paonia’s wine country.

Read the story

A group gathered around an outdoor table as red wine is poured into tasting glasses

Planning Your Tour 4 min read

Planning a Birthday Wine Tour in Paonia

A birthday in wine country can be as simple as good company, a few thoughtful stops and time to enjoy them. Here is how to put the day together.

Read the story

A glass of red wine on an outdoor table in warm autumn light

Food & Wine 4 min read

Choosing Colorado Wines for Your Fall Table: A Tasting Guide to Paonia

A fall visit to Paonia can begin with a question from your own kitchen: what would taste good with the meals we’re cooking this season?

Read the story

Rows of orchard trees with golden leaves and fallen foliage in autumn sunlight

Seasonal Guides 4 min read

Late October in Paonia: wine, orchards and a fall weekend

There is still time for a fall visit. Confirm your winery day first, then make room for an orchard stop or an evening in Paonia as seasonal hours change.

Read the story