Carlson Vineyards Winery

Parker and Mary Carlson planted their first vines on four acres in East Orchard Mesa above Palisade, Colorado, in 1981, establishing a legacy that continues today under current owner Garrett. The winery operates out of a 1930s fruit packing shed, where the family crafts approachable, quality wines using locally grown grapes and fruit from Palisade and Delta County. Since its inception in 1988, Carlson Vineyards has overcome the high desert climate to produce easy-drinking regional wines that have earned hundreds of awards, including double golds, best-of festival honors, and the international World Cup Riesling Award. Visitors can sample these award-winning varieties in a tasting room that doubles as a retail store, offering an unpretentious experience focused on food and friends. Beyond the bottles, the Carlsons have supported the Colorado wine scene by serving on boards for CAVE, Colorado Mountain Winefest, Child and Migrant Services, the Mesa Land Trust, and the Colorado Wine Industry Development Board. They have also mentored numerous start-up wineries, helping to grow the state’s industry from a few pioneers to over 150 tasting rooms. Today, Garrett works alongside Parker and Mary, maintaining the friendly, family-owned atmosphere while adding his own influence to the winery's ongoing success.