January 18th – The Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE) just finished their annual VinCO & WCHS Conference and Trade Show, which took place January 15-18 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. VinCO is the region’s premier grape growing and winemaking conference and brings together top experts in enology, viticulture, and marketing.
This year’s conference brought in over 25 speakers from around the country to speak specifically to the wine and grape growing industry about topics ranging from grape breeding, small-scale winemaking, winery sanitation, and more. VinCO also featured panel discussions, educational wine tastings, and over 25 educational seminars. This year, the conference also featured a free conference app which allowed attendees, speakers and exhibitors to engage with each other leading up to during and after the event!
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to host this extraordinary conference, uniting winemakers, grape growers, and horticulturalists nationwide,” said Cassidee Shull, CAVE Executive Director. “This gathering provides a platform for learning and collaboration, driving the advancement and expansion of Colorado’s burgeoning wine industry.”
The highlight of the conference is the Awards of Excellence, in which the CAVE members nominate the 2023 Grape Grower of the Year, Winery of the Year, and Friend of the Colorado Wine Industry. This awards were presented to:
Brandon Black: Grape Grower of the Year
Brandon Black has significantly contributed to the Colorado wine and grape industry. His evolution from managing a winery with a tasting room to dedicating himself entirely to farming underscores his unwavering commitment to perfection and continuous improvement. Brandon’s expertise and readiness to assist fellow vineyard owners have garnered him widespread respect within the agricultural community. This recognition not only applauds his exceptional contributions but also underscores Mesa Park Fruit Company’s dedication to fostering the growth and success of Colorado’s thriving wine business.
Restoration Vineyards: Winery of the Year
Restoration Vineyards has redefined standards for Colorado wineries, setting a new benchmark with their production of world-class wines and delivering exceptional guest experiences. The family’s commitment extends beyond their vineyard, as evidenced by their weekly concert series and active involvement in almost every regional event. Recognized as genuine supporters of the Colorado Wine experience, Restoration Vineyards has left an enduring mark on the entire industry.
Charlotte Oliver: Friend of the Colorado Wine Industry
Dr. Charlotte Oliver has played a pivotal role in elevating the Colorado wine industry since assuming the position of the state’s Viticulture Extension Specialist in 2022. In her relatively short tenure, she has not only enriched the viticultural landscape but has also seamlessly connected research to practical applications for growers, wineries, and hobbyists across Colorado. Her commitment to education is evident through numerous seminars, webinars, and educational initiatives, fostering a deeper understanding of viticulture practices and advancements within the community. Dr. Oliver’s impact extends far beyond traditional boundaries, actively engaging in various events that contribute to shaping the regional wine experience. Recognized for her unwavering support and dedication, Dr. Charlotte Oliver has earned the esteemed Friend of the Colorado Wine Industry Award. Her involvement in enhancing the Colorado wine scene exemplifies the spirit of this award, acknowledging her as a true friend and invaluable asset to winemakers and enthusiasts alike.
About CAVE
The Colorado Association for Viticulture and Enology (CAVE) is the only non-profit dedicated to promoting the education and research of winemaking and grape growing in Colorado. Each year, CAVE produces Colorado Mountain Winefest, the state’s largest wine festival – and named Best Wine Festival in the Nation by USA Today in 2017. Mountain Winefest takes place the third weekend in September in Palisade, CO. More information on Winefest can be found at www.ColoradoWinefest.com.
