Rick Langenberg
Wintertime gives many of our local eateries a chance to shine in special areas that are quite different from the hustle and bustle pace of the summer tourist season
Not that we don’t appreciate our summer visitors, but sometimes we need a break.
One definite standout for this time of year is Cascade’s “Wines of Colorado,” (WOC), known for their trophy-level cuisine, quaint atmosphere and Colorado-inspired wines, beers and amazing spirits.
Since the winter of 2021, Wines of Colorado has also offered an extra rare enticement: Special Pairing Meals. Participants are provided with incredible pairings accompanied by the best Colorado wines and/or spirits. This tradition has continued for the 2025/2026 winter season at WOC.
Special dinners guests are treated with the highest standards of dining excellence. At the same time, their experience is enhanced by an award-winning winemaker or Colorado distillery owner, who showcases the history and vintage notes, paired with each dinner course. This is a culinary experience that remains unrivaled in the Ute Pass region. In fact, a recent Special Pairing Feast on Veterans Day, was warmly received.
The next special outing is scheduled for next Tuesday (Dec. 16) and offers a unique “Winemaker Pairing Dinner.”
It features a beautifully curated five-course dinner, with each dish thoughtfully paired with fine wines from Colorado Cellars. Guest Chef James Cowdery will bring his signature creativity and flair to every course, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. Meal Courses will provide an amazing international touch, with culinary highlights from Germany, Italy, Mexico/US, England and France. The wines offered run the entire lineup of prized Chardonay, Orange Mascot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cherry “Wine” picks.
Colorado Cellars is Colorado’s oldest, largest and most award-winning winery. Founded in 1978 as Colorado Mountain Vineyards, their brands also include Rocky Mountain Vineyards and the Orchard Mesa Wine Company. Today, WOC continues to sell wines made under Colorado Winery License No. 5, the state’s oldest license still in existence. Their vino products rank as some of the most popular wines at WOC and actually reign as a huge hit during every summer’s Vino & Notes festival in Woodland Park. The Dec. 16 evening’s festivities will also include Cellar winemakers and owners, Rick and Padte Turley.
For the menu highlights, look for a rare specially-crafted version of Duck Confit, Pappardelle Pasta, Tamale and Chili, Beef Wellington, and Traditional Yule Log Cake. We hate to say anymore, or you may start drooling on this page.
The dinner starts at 6:30. For reservations, call 719-684-0900 or visit www.winesofcolorado.com and select the 6:30pm time slot.
But if this particular time our outing does not fit your schedule, fret not, as other special parings and meals are in store at WOC throughout the next few months.
Also, throughout the winter, don’t miss WOC’s special Trivia Nights on Wednesday and their Steak Nights on Thursday.
For more details regarding Wines of Colorado, visit their Facebook Page or their restaurant website or check on updates in TMJ’s dining section.
