AvidLifestyle.com
JUNE 2022
Go West Do the WESTERN SLOPE your way this summer. From dining to shopping to outdoor activities, you’re sure to find the perfect groove.
JUNE 2022 | $8.95
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Build an EPIC BACKYARD for gathering, splashing and adventure
Colorado’s own WINE INDUSTRY disrupter finds his roots
Maintain happy and HEALTHY SKIN even in Colorado’s summer sun
ROOTED IN
LUXURY DTC • Cherry Creek • LoDo • Fort Collins
Residential • Commercial • Leasing • Property Management • Mortgage • Insurance • Relocation
pride of ownership in sundance hills tranquil yard with multi-level deck, water feature & secret garden
NEW LISTING 10427 EAST DORADO PLACE 5 beds / 5,000 sqft / $1.1550M / walk-out lower level
303.817.0192 | MARKUSDREAMHOMES.COM All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.
CONTENTS
// june 2022
departments
10 14
SETTING THE STAGE
Summer is by far my favorite season. By Heather Shoning
ON THE AGENDA
Ducky Derby, Shakespeare Festival, Juneteenth Music Festival and so much more.
local flavors
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STANDOUT SUMMER FLAVORS
Try these buzz-worthy summer dishes at some top Castle Rock eateries. By John Lehndorff
A TASTE OF THE WESTERN SLOPE
From lavender-infused spirits to locally made goat cheese, you’re sure to love these bold summer tastes. By Kimberly Lord Stewart
dwelling well
32
PHOTO:COURTESY VISIT GRAND JUNCTION
FEATURED
38
BACKYARD BONANZA
Design your own epic backyard to make staying home its own adventure. By Jessica Hughes
GO NATIVE
Tame your yard maintenance with native species xeriscaping. By Heather Shoning
ready to wear
56
SUMMER SKINCARE
Make skincare a top priority before you head outdoors this summer. By Courtney LaMarine
influencers
58
42
Summer Splendor Your complete guide for hitting the Western Slope this summer. All the places to stay, play, dine and shop. By Kimberly Lord Stewart
ON THE COVER: Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, PHOTO: Courtesy Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa
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UPROOTED
Denver wine industry disrupter Ben Parsons moves west to grow his own grapes. By Kastle Waserman
wayfarers
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REDLANDS MESA
Pack your clubs for a round (or a few) of golf in the picturesque backdrop of the Western Slope. By Heather Shoning
ONE LUXURIOUS RESORT TWO CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSES ut of the heart of a legendary landscape comes a champion— Flying Horse, featuring two private 18-hole golf courses, one designed by the legendary golfer, Tom Weiskopf, and the other by renowned golf course architect, Phil Smith. Flying Horse offers the ultimate Colorado golf experience with luxuriously appointed guest rooms, a European-inspired clubhouse and athletic club & spa, world-class dining, and Southern Colorado's only Golf Channel Academy golf instruction facility. Lodge Reservations: 844-768-2684 - LodgeAtFlyingHorse.com Membership Opportunities: 719-487-2660 - FlyingHorseClub.com Golf Academy Lessons: 719-201-0240 - FlyingHorseGolfAcademy.com 1 8 8 0
W E I S K O P F
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June 2022 // vol. 4 // no. 3 PRESIDENT/GROUP PUBLISHER Allen J. Walters
Discover Denver’s BRAND NEW premier senior living community designed with you in mind. Call 303.792.8200 to take advantage of our SUMMER SAVINGS SPECIALS! Schedule your private tour and see the Hilltop difference. 525 S. Holly St., Denver, Colorado
HILLTOPRESERVE.COM
PUBLISHER Chris Phillips art & editorial EDITOR Heather Shoning CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jani Duncan Smith CONTRIBUTORS E.J. Carr, Chad Chisholm, Jessica Hughes, Ehren Joseph, Courtney LaMarine, John Lehndorff, Kimberly Lord Stewart, Erroll Perkins, Valerie Ward, Kastle Waserman sales, marketing & advertising VP OF SALES & MARKETING Lori Perry DIRECTOR OF SALES Mike Carver DIGITAL STRATEGIST Brandon Kusek BUSINESS/OPERATIONS MANAGER Cindy Palmer
A NEW PARKER TRADITION EST. 2020
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jon Rizzi ART DIRECTOR, Colorado AvidGolfer Michelle M. Gutierrez ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: chris@avidlifestyle.com EDITORIAL INQUIRIES AND LETTERS: heather@avidlifestyle.com CUSTOMER SERVICE: 720.493.1729 MAILING ADDRESS: 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
BLACKHAUSTAVERN.COM | 303.568.9671 | 19501 EAST MAINSTREET | PARKER, CO 8
june 2022 // AvidLifestyle
AvidLifestyle (ISSN 2642-0562) is published twelve times a year by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC, and printed by Publication Printers Inc. volume four, number three. 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Order your personal subscription to AvidLifestyle at avidlifestyle.com or by calling 720.493.1729. Subscriptions are available at the rate of $12 per year. Copyright © 2022 by Baker-Colorado Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to AvidLifestyle, 6143 S. Willow Drive, #406, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. The magazine welcomes editorial submissions but assumes no responsibility for the safekeeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other material.
// editor’s letter PHOTO: JOSEF KANDOLL WEPPLO
DELIVERING
SETTING THE STAGE
THE COLORADO
HOME LIFE STYLE Our connection begins with home.
TALK OF THE TOWN
KNOW SOMEONE who should be featured in AvidLifestyle? Tell me about them at heather@avidlifestyle.com
DIVING INTO SUMMER OK, I KNOW we all love ski season, but summer in Colorado is my favorite. I love the heat and sun, the hiking and biking, traveling to the high country and shopping farmers markets. Our mission at AvidLifestyle is to share the stories, places, people and events that make our community—and our state—great. We’ve gone all out in this issue to help you plan a trip to the Western Slope, among other things. The other side of the divide has so much to offer in the way of scenery, but there’s so much more. Our giant feature article (Summer Splendor, page 42) offers upwards of 50 ideas for staying, dining, shopping and doing. In addition, we share recipes made from Western Slope foods and spirits (A Taste of the Western Slope, page 26), and introduce you to Ben Parsons, a wine industry disrupter who moved west to grow his own grapes (Uprooted, page 58). And be sure to pack your clubs when you head to Grand Junction to play a round at Redlands Mesa Golf Course with picturesque backdrops of stunning mountains and the iconic red rock landscape.
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When you’re at home, why not enjoy some epic adventure in your own backyard (Backyard Bonanza, page 32). Local landscaping companies weigh in on creating your dream outdoor space complete with fire, water and boulders—for climbing. Or maybe you’re looking for a low-maintenance yard. Xeriscaping could be the solution for you. Learn more about how this concept was coined right here in the Centennial State (Go Native, page 38).
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EXPERIENCED, TRUSTED ADVISOR.
Peruse these pages for even more great content including some buzz-worthy eats in Castle Rock (Standout Summer Flavors, page 22) and how to care for summertime skin (Summer Skincare, page 56). And as always, check out the calendar (starting on page 14) for some fun local events you won’t want to miss. I know I’ll be out there enjoying every summer moment. C’mon, dive in with me!
Heather Shoning LUXUR Y REA L ESTATE BROKE R WIT H LIV SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
303.921.2964 csanders@livsothebysrealty.com www.ColeenSanders.com
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AvidLifestyle is a luxury lifestyle magazine serving Denver's south suburbs. And we're excited to add new, experienced writers to our growing list of contributors. Do you have magazine writing experience? Do you know Denver's south suburbs? Can you dig deep for the unique story about the people, places and events that make our community special? If so, we want you! Please email heather@avidlifestyle.com with basic info about yourself and at least three published clips (links are fine).
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ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events
JUNE
June 3
June 4–5
PHOTO: COURTESY HIGHLANDS RANCH BEER FESTIVAL
SMASH SPRING FINE ARTS FESTIVAL Head to Cherry Creek North for this weekend-long arts festival, showcasing the highly curated works of top-tier local and national artists. The event includes catered food for purchase, and live music. FILLMORE PLAZA, smashinthesquarefestival.com
June 4 HIGHLANDS RANCH BEER FESTIVAL This big annual festival for beer lovers is back after a two-year hiatus. General admission tickets include unlimited 1-ounce pours from participating local and national breweries, plus a souvenir glass; VIP ticket holders also score earlier access to the festival grounds and a T-shirt. There’s live music and lawn games. Tickets must be purchased online. CIVIC GREEN PARK, hrcaonline.org
t Me e You
Th
ere.
Belleview Station
Browse
People + Produce Farmer’s Market Every Sunday 9AM - 1PM June - October
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PHOTO: ANTHONY CONSTANTINO, COURTESY SMASH FINE ARTS FESTIVAL
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A PIONEER Take a wagon ride, dress up like a settler, tend to the animals and more as you immerse yourself in the daily life of an 1880s homestead village. This program in Aurora is for all ages, and other June dates are available on Fridays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 9 a.m. PLAINS CONSERVATION CENTER, botanicgardens.org
ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events
PHOTO: DALTON SMITH
June 8 ADULT SWIM PARTY It’s grown-ups only at this big pool party in Highlands Ranch. Bring your floatie, your friends, maybe a picnic dinner, and some cash for the cash bar, then splash the evening away as you listen to live music. 4:30–7:30 p.m. EASTRIDGE RECREATION CENTER OUTDOOR POOL, hrcaonline.org
June 12 PHOTO: ALEXANDER SCHIMMECK
CASTLE ROCK DUCKY DERBY June 12 is a big day in Castle Rock, with the opening of the Festival Park farmers market, the Castle Rock Street Fair and the popular Ducky Derby, a fundraiser for Castle Rock Rotary Club. Win a prize if your ducky is one of the first 10 to make it the half mile down Plum Creek. Events from 9 a.m.–2 p.m. also include live music, carnival games and face painting for kids, food trucks and beer. FESTIVAL PARK, rotaryclubofcastlerock.org
June 10 & 24
June 5
GARDEN TO GLASS: SUMMER DRINKS & TAPAS WORKSHOP Susan Evans, author of “The Herbalist’s Happy Hour,” teaches how you can use fresh fruits and veggies to make a range of unique summer libations, including aqua frescas, elixirs and syrups. You’ll also make delicious tapas to go with your creations. DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS, botanicgardens.org
COLORADO SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL OPENING NIGHT The Colorado Shakespeare Festival in Boulder opens with “Two Gentlemen of Verona”; this year’s lineup also includes “All’s Well That Ends Well” and “The Book of Will.” The festival runs through August 7 on the CU campus. MARY RIPPON OUTDOOR THEATRE, coloradoshakes.org
there’s more ➼
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R E S TA U R A N T 15
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ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events PHOTO: COURTESY JUNETEENTH MUSIC FESTIVAL
June 17–19 VAIL ARTS FESTIVAL Take a beautiful ride up to Vail to catch this popular three-day arts festival, featuring more than 60 artists showcasing their works in digital art, fiber, sculpture, painting, ceramics, jewelry and more. Interact with the artists and watch them create their beautiful works. ARRABELLE AT VAIL SQUARE, discovervail.com PHOTO: MAREK MUCHA
June 17–19
June 17–19 DENVER BBQ FESTIVAL This annual festival is so big, it has to be held in a football stadium. Pitmasters from across the country are smoking a whopping 30,000 pounds of meat for the event, which is held on Father’s Day weekend because lots of dads love BBQ! Enter for free and pay as you eat, or purchase a Q Pit Pass for unlimited food and drinks. Enjoy live music while you eat and drink. EMPOWER FIELD AT MILE HIGH, denverbbqfest.com
JUNETEENTH MUSIC FESTIVAL Denver is home to a huge annual music festival that celebrates Juneteenth, the day when African Americans in Texas finally learned about their freedom, two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. The twoday event includes live music, vendor booths, food trucks and activities for all ages. FIVE POINTS NEIGHBORHOOD, juneteenthmusicfestival.com
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ON THE AGENDA
June 17–19
// can’t-miss events
JUNETEENTH MUSIC FESTIVAL Denver is home to a huge annual music festival that celebrates Juneteenth, the day when African Americans in Texas finally learned about their freedom, two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. The two-day event includes live music, vendor booths, food trucks and activities for all ages. FIVE POINTS NEIGHBORHOOD, juneteenthmusicfestival.com PHOTO: AUSTIN LOWMAN
June 19 ROCK AND ROLL PLAYHOUSE: BOB MARLEY In celebration of Father’s Day and of Juneteenth, the Bluebird Theater presents “The Music of Bob Marley,” a family-friendly event featuring games, movement and stories that help cultivate a love of music in children ages 10 and under. BLUEBIRD THEATER, bluebirdtheater.net
June 18–19 COLORADO RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL OPENING WEEKEND The Colorado Renaissance Festival is something you really have to experience to believe. You’ll be strolling among costumed merrymakers, feasting on foods fit for a king (or queen), dancing along to 16th-century music, watching artisans in action and experiencing “a magical tour through time and legend.” Weekends through August 7. LARKSPUR, coloradorenaissance.com there’s more ➼
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ANNZO@KENTWOOD.COM 303.579.3429
All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Kentwood Real Estate shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.
ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events PHOTO: SARAH NEUMAN,COURTESY LONE TREE ARTS CENTER
June 19 FATHER’S DAY FAMILY SHOW Comedy Works South in Greenwood Village presents a special family-friendly matinee on Father’s Day, featuring Australian comedian Monty Franklin. The show begins at 3 p.m., so arrive early to enjoy brunch first at Lucy Restaurant, right upstairs. COMEDY WORKS SOUTH, comedyworks.com
June 24 TUNES ON THE TERRACE Lone Tree Arts Center presents Tunes on the Terrace, featuring Joe Smith & The Spicy Pickles Jazz Band, a Denver-based band dedicated to revitalizing swing music and dance. Choose reserved chairs or lawn seating; a four-show ticket package is available if you also want to see the other bands scheduled in July and August. LONE TREE ARTS CENTER, lonetreeartscenter.org
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Experience the world in Aurora’s neighborhoods, it’s all local.
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ON THE AGENDA
// can’t-miss events
SAVE THE DATE! August 20 WHEELS OF DREAMS Colorado AvidGolfer and AvidLifestyle present Wheels of Dreams, an annual event that raises funds for Bags of Fun, a local nonprofit that strives to deliver happiness to hospitalized children. The 6–9 p.m. gala is at Vehicle Vault in Parker, a venue featuring a stunning private collection of vintage and exotic automobiles. Tickets include craft cocktails, culinary creations, live music, live and silent auction and more.
June 25–26 UNICORN FESTIVAL It’s a truly magical weekend, with unicorn corrals, famous princesses, a dragon slide obstacle course, a mermaid lagoon, karaoke, food trucks and so much more. Family ticket four-packs are available online, and kids under 2 are free. In Littleton; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. both days. CLEMENT PARK, unicornfestivalcolorado.com
SCAN THE QR to learn more and buy tickets
June 25–26 KEYSTONE BACON & BOURBON FESTIVAL Bacon and bourbon go together like … well, they just go together, and this annual festival in Keystone celebrates the pairing. The weekend-long event also features live music, vendor booths and Camp Bacon for kids, with crafts, a scavenger hunt, chalk painting and more. RIVER RUN VILLAGE, keystonefestivals.com
there’s more ➼
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FOLLOW THE LINK
// what’s online
@avidlifestylemag
Made by Hand LUXURY CAKES & SWEETS
LET’S GET SOCIAL
DENVER PRIDE EVENTS take place all month. Don’t miss PrideFest on June 25 and 26, with a 5K run, top-notch lineup of entertainment, the Pride Parade and more.
PHOTO: COURTESY RIDWELL
Emphasis on clean, high quality ingredients and fine artistry
madebyhandcakes.com
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b oo k n ow!
303.22 4 . 9 9 3 3 | 8 0 0 0 E B E L L EVIEW AVE 20
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SCAN THE QR to learn more
LOCAL FLAVORS
// dine out
PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM
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Standout Summer Flavors Seared fresh fish, tender steaks and spicy, creamy chicken star on CASTLE ROCK’S SUMMER MENUS By John Lehndorff
LOCAL FLAVORS
// dine out
TRESTLES COASTAL CUISINE trestlescastlerock.com THE DISH: Seared barramundi with rainbow couscous Owners Jose and Mimi Espinoza named their Castle Rock eatery for the shoreline between San Diego and Orange County with its perfect waves. Trestles showcases excellent fresh fish and seafood from both coasts. Chef Verity Warriner’s new summer menu includes firmfleshed barramundi fish pan-seared, so the skin gets very crispy. She tops it with a sweet-andsour tomato gastrique. She adds couscous— dyed bright colors using turmeric and beet—and dresses it in pancetta vinaigrette. OTHER MUST-TASTE TRESTLES MENU ITEMS • Salmon pan-roasted in roasted red bell pepper sauce • Burrata salad with baby arugula, tomatoes and pickled watermelon radish • New England-style, wild-caught lobster salad roll with citrus remoulade
AS SUMMER BURSTS FORTH along the Front Range, restaurants are putting their hearty, heavy cold-weather fare on the back burner. Menus are showing off light, refreshing food and drinks suitable for enjoying alfresco on a warm June evening. Four popular Castle Rock eateries share the dish most likely to create a buzz for the rest of the summer. We’ve also included a few other standout options to sample while you’re there.
UNION AN AMERICAN BISTRO theunionbistro.com THE DISH: Hanger steak with chimichurri and heirloom tomato salad First, the chef marinates a tender 8-ounce steak in Southwestern lime and herbs. It’s grilled to order and topped with an herbaceous chimichurri sauce. The result is a new dish on Union’s menu full of bright, seasonal, palate-pleasing flavors. On the side is an heirloom tomato salad plus crispy frites dusted with barbecue spice and drizzled with simple syrup. Union’s owner Kim Heideman recommends pairing it with a glass of Conundrum, a light red blend wine.
PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM
OTHER MUST-TASTE UNION MENU ITEMS • Italian eggrolls filled with tomato, mozzarella and basil served with arugula pesto • Togarashi-spiced seared shrimp on romaine and cabbage salad with maple sesame vinaigrette and crispy wontons
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LOCAL FLAVORS
// dine out
MANNA RESTAURANT mannasbounty.com THE DISH: Short ribs with smoky mashers, creamy horseradish and grilled broccolini under a smoke dome Manna Restaurant is located at Castle Rock Adventist Hospital, but it doesn’t dish “hospital food,” says Dan Skay, Manna’s executive chef. Besides serving healthy meals for patients and staff, Manna is a bright, casual sit-down restaurant with a waitstaff that welcomes locals for meals every day. Skay says this dish is a prime example. Slow-braised boneless Angus beef short ribs paired with smoked mashed potatoes with demi-glace sauce, creamed horseradish and grilled fresh broccolini. It’s delivered tableside under a glass dome filled with appetizing mild cherry wood smoke that seasons the air. OTHER MUST-TASTE MANNA MENU ITEMS • Diamond Ridge Pizza on house-made dough with bresaola, fig, fresh mozzarella, gorgonzola and Parmesan, then topped with balsamic glaze • Corned “beet” Rueben sandwich with sauerkraut and Russian dressing
PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM
ZAIKA INDIAN CUISINE zaikacastlerock.com THE DISH: Chicken lajjatdar
PHOTO: CHAD CHISHOLM
Executive chef Basanta “Bobby” Lamsal calls Chicken lajjatdar Zaika’s most distinctive dish. Chunks of dark and white chicken are cloaked in a buttery cashew sauce similar to chicken korma. The difference, Lamsal says, is the addition of “a substantial amount of finely chopped fresh cilantro and specific Indian spices.” Vegetable and seafood variations are also available. The dish comes with fluffy basmati rice, but garlic naan hot from the tandoor oven is ideal for grabbing bites of chicken. Zaika Indian Cuisine boasts six Colorado locations, including Castle Rock and Littleton. OTHER MUST-TASTE ZAIKA MENU ITEMS • Baingan bharta: vegan tandoor-roasted eggplant with chopped tomatoes, onions, ginger and garlic • Seafood Kerala curry: shrimp, scallops and salmon in coconut milk sauce infused with mustard seeds and curry leaves 24
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LOCAL FLAVORS
// tasty treats
A Taste of the Western Slope Two local purveyors share recipes that deliver a MOUTHFUL OF SUMMER By Kimberly Lord Stewart
FAMILY ROOTS run strong at Highlands Craft Distillery and Belli Fiori Lavender Farm, a mother-son duo distillery and organic lavender farm. Dylan Proietti was inspired to make spirits from his mother’s lavender farm and shop. With Olathe sweet corn as the base, he began blending various botanicals including anise, orange, grapefruit and of course, lavender. He now distills gin, vodka and rye. There is no better place than Highlands to enjoy a cocktail in the summer sun or cool off in the recently built tasting yurt. Dillon plans to open an Italian food truck soon. Lisa Proietti sells lavender soaps, lotions, body scrubs, natural bug sprays, linen fresheners, dried lavender buds and essential oils. coloradohighlandsdistillery.com bellifiorilavender.com
Highlands Craft Distilleryʼs
PROVENCE LEMON LAVENDER COOLER Makes one cocktail INGREDIENTS 4 blackberries 2 oz vodka 2 oz lemon juice 0.75 oz lavender syrup Lavender sprig for garnish
PHOTO: COURTESY HIGHLANDS CRAFT DISTILLERY
METHOD Sugar the rim of a martini glass. Place blackberries in a cocktail shaker and muddle. Add ice, vodka, lemon juice and lavender syrup; shake well to combine. Double strain into prepared martini glass, garnish with a lavender sprig and enjoy. 26
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CUCUMBER LEMONADE A Curiously Refreshing Cocktail
PLEASE DRINK THE UNUSUAL RESPONSIBLY. HENDRICK’S GIN, 44% ALC./VOL. ©2022 IMPORTED BY WILLIAM GRANT & SONS, INC., NEW YORK, NY
LOCAL FLAVORS
// tasty treats
Tess Peterson and Halsey Swetzoff learned the art of butter and cheese making in Vermont and Wisconsin and … Tasmania. Now they live in Palisade and own Ghost Rock Farm where they make cultured butter and cheeses. The fermentation process means there is no room for cutting corners. ghostrockfarm.com
Ghost Rock Farmsʼ
MORNING TOAST with FRESH COW’S MILK CHEESE and ROASTED TOMATOES Makes one serving INGREDIENTS Handful of cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper Thick slice sourdough bread 2–3 tbsp cow’s milk cheese 3 fresh basil leaves, shredded
PHOTO: COURTESY GHOST ROCK FARM
METHOD Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, and place in a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast tomatoes at 375 for 15–20 minutes, or until soft and smelling delicious. Toast the sourdough bread. Spread a layer of cow’s milk cheese over bread. Top with roasted tomatoes and shredded fresh basil. 28
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DWELLING WELL
// by design
PHOTO: COURTESY DREAM MAKERS LANDSCAPE
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DWELLING WELL
Backyard Bonanza CREATE A DREAM SPACE FOR ADVENTURE right outside your door By Jessica Hughes EPIC ADVENTURES don’t just happen in the mountains; they can also occur in your backyard. Once upon a time, a wooden play structure with swings and a slide was a standard backyard accoutrement. Today, ambitious homeowners are transforming their backyards into 5-star destinations. With custom pools and spas, fire features and climbing walls right at home, you don’t have to venture far for summer fun! Get inspired and discover what a few Colorado-based design and construction companies say about building your epic backyard! LUXE GATHERING SPACES Make your backyard feel like an extension of your indoor space. The team at Dream Makers Landscape make your vision a reality with their opulent custom backyard designs. But where do you start? “The most common and functional will be your paver patio,” says Suong Dang with Dream Makers Landscape. “It’s very durable, and there are different sizes and colors to choose from.” In addition to the patio, Dang says clients want fire features—whether it be a traditional fire pit, modern fire channel or even a fireplace—to create a place to entertain and gather with family and friends. All projects are unique, and a custom design allows for infinite potential. “They all have common foundational elements such as a patio, fire feature and an entertaining and eating area,” Dang says, “but as far as execution, they are all different depending on style and desired feel.”
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// by design
DWELLING WELL
// by design
PHOTO: COURTESY DREAM MAKERS LANDSCAPE
LAVISH WATER FEATURES Backyard pools have been growing in popularity in the Mile High City, and they aren’t just simple pools—they’re water-fun destinations. They include elaborate water features, custom slides and creative design elements like infinity pools. To ensure you get precisely what you want, hiring a highly qualified construction company to execute your vision, like Aquality Construction, is critical. Specializing in in-ground concrete pools and spas, Aquality takes pools to the next level with custom designs, plus automation and energy efficiencies. One of the latest designs they are working on is a movable floor pool, where the deck disappears into the pool. “This type of design allows the pool area to double as an entertaining space,” says Joe Dempsey Jr., COO at Aquality Construction. “There are less than one hundred of these pools in the world, and we have two of them in the works right now.” According to Dempsey, almost anything is possible in designing your backyard pool, but water features in motion, inside and outside of the pool, are some of the most popular requests. Perimeter LED strips are popular, as well as underwater speakers. But for a top-of-the-line upgrade, choose an all-tile pool. OVER-THE-TOP ADVENTURES Recreational features like climbing walls bring the adventure to your back door for active families. Louisville-based Eldorado Walls has been creating custom climbing walls and bouldering sets for indoor and outdoor use since 1994, when the company started
PHOTO: COURTESY AQUALITY CONSTRUCTION
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DWELLING WELL
// by design PHOTO: COURTESY ELDORADO WALLS PHOTO: COURTESY AQUALITY CONSTRUCTION
building commercial climbing gyms. With the sport growing in popularity, they now make custom climbing walls and boulders for private residences as well. Christina Frain, director of marketing at Eldorado Walls, says custom boulders are popular among Denver homeowners. The boulders are custom built with handsculpted, hand-painted concrete and excellent climbability. The company can create anything from small to giant boulders, featuring holds and problems (a route that a climber takes to complete the climb) for all skill levels. “A climbing boulder is a fun focal point for any backyard,” Frain says. Mimicking the local rock and landscape, Eldorado Walls designs its custom climbing boulders to look and feel like the real thing. “We have a phenomenal team of carvers and painters who are rock climbers themselves,” Frain says. “They work to create and imitate the rock in the area with each custom design.” No matter what your epic backyard plans might include, all our pros say—much like a major home renovation—there’s a lot of planning and time involved in designing and building a custom outdoor activity area. Dream big, and get a head start on your 5-star, at-home adventure space today—you’ll be glad you did. PHOTO: COURTESY DREAM MAKERS LANDSCAPE
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Redefining Outdoor Living… Patio | Fire Pits | Fireplaces | Accessories
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DWELLING WELL
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DWELLING WELL
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Go Native XERISCAPING YOUR YARD is the perfect way to save precious resources, including your time. By Heather Shoning
XERISCAPE landscaping is popular throughout the South and West as a means to protect precious water in areas that are arid and semiarid. But did you know Denver Water coined the term? In 1981, the public utility combined “landscape” and the Greek word “xeros,” which means dry, as a means of promoting the use of plants in landscaping that are native to the area or those that are able to easily adapt to the local climate. In addition to being great for saving our local resources, a xeriscaped yard can also save you a precious resource: time that you can spend enjoying all the outdoor activities our great state has to offer. So, if you’d like to ditch the water-hogging, high-maintenance lawn for a more natural—albeit not necessarily neat and trim—landscape, we have some expert tips to transform your yard.
niques. Things like existing trees, the driveway, sidewalks, plants or shrubs you want to keep, sloped areas, decks or patios and the perimeter of your home will matter in the planning. In addition, the direction your home faces matters, and so does the way you want to use the spaces in your yard. Do you need a place for the kids to play? The pups to run? Or a variety of seating areas for entertaining?
PLANNING 101 You’ve got to start with a plan to ensure you take into consideration all aspects of the property to properly implement the water-saving tech-
EFFICIENT HYDRATION Your plants are going to need some water. Great planning can ensure you’re only giving them what they need and not a drop more.
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GETTING DIRTY Soil on the Front Range is basically clay or sand—clay being dense and slow to absorb and release water, and sand … well, it doesn’t hold water. The great thing about using native plants is that they can grow well in both types of soil. You just need to know which soil your yard has in order to choose the right native plants.
DWELLING WELL
// around back FEED THE BEES Colorado has 946 species of native bees—that’s just bees, not even including other pollinators such as moths, butterflies, wasps and more. And these hungry little critters need to feed and in turn, spread pollen to maintain the health of flowering-plant species. Here are some fabulous plant choices to keep the pollinators buzzing about your yard from spring through fall. For more ideas, check extension.colostate.edu. Check the growing specifications to ensure you choose plants for your specific yard conditions.
Early-Season Nodding onion (Allium cernuum) Winecups (Callirhoe involucrate) Prairie smoke (Geum triflorum) Blue Flax (Linum lewisii)
Mid-Season Lead Plant (Amorpha canescens) Pearly everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea) Blanket flower (Gaillardia aristate)
Late-Season Blue Giant Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) Rocky Mountain bee plant (Cleome serrulate) Plains Coreopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria) Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) Boulder raspberry (Rubus deliciosus)
Installing an irrigation system designed for the specific types of plants with a timer control will minimize water waste. Be sure to water early in the morning or late in the evening and install a rain sensor to ensure the system shuts off if it’s raining. According to Denver Water, drip, spray or bubbler emitters are most efficient for watering trees, shrubs, flowers and groundcovers, while low-pressure, low-angle sprinklers are best for grass. PLANTS AND ZONES Colorado Natural Heritage Program identifies more than 3,000 Colorado-native grasses, plants, shrubs and trees, so there’s plenty to choose from when planning your plants. There are annuals and perennials in a mix of shapes and sizes, plants with lots of color and plants that are just great filler. As you’re choosing your
favorites, it’s important to assess your yard—it will receive different amounts of light, wind and moisture in different areas. Group plants with similar light and water requirements and be sure to plant those that require more water in the low-lying areas of the yard or near downspouts. Put plants that require less water on higher ground. Use mulch to keep plant roots cool and minimize water evaporation. CUT THE GRASS What to do about that water-guzzling bluegrass turf? First, if you want to retain the cut-lawn look, you might need to accept the fact that you’re going to have a dormant, brown lawn for many months, and plant native species like buffalograss or blue grama that grow best in warm months. Other alternatives are coolseason species such as such as western wheat40
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grass, streambank wheatgrass or prairie junegrass, according to a native lawn fact sheet from Colorado State University’s department of horticulture and landscape architecture. TAKE CARE Maintenance and care for a new xeriscaped yard is similar to a traditional landscape. You’ll need to water and weed and possibly prune some shrubs, but the work will decrease over time as the plants take hold. All that’s left to do is enjoy your new yard knowing you’re doing good for the planet and our natural resources, while you’re gaining back some much-needed relaxing—or playing—time for yourself.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF ROOFING. Hail season is almost here and that means that Colorado residents may experience damage to their homes. If your h o m e s u ff e r s h a i l d a m a g e , o r you just need to replace your ro o f, yo u s h o u l d k n ow a contractor you can trust. Lifetime Roof & Solar has completed thousands of restoration projects and will work with your insurance company to make sure you get the high-quality work you deserve. Our goal is to restore your home to better than pre-storm condition.
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Summer From food to scenery, activities to shopping, the Western Slope is a fabulous weekend—or week-long—getaway By Kimberly Lord Stewart
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IF YOU HAVEN’T ventured across the state recently, there is a warmth to the Western Slope of Colorado that is unmatched. Yes, there are the natural hot springs and the warm micro-climate, but there is more to it. After a week-long respite from the Front Range, my time here uncovered a deep level of affection for the land from the people on this side of the Continental Divide that goes far beyond geo-thermals and jet streams. The devotion is fueling a high level of innovation in food and drink, the arts and hospitality in the Grand Valley and Roaring Fork Valley. In 2021, one writer from Food and Wine magazine deemed the area “the next Sonoma.” The secret is getting out, so there is no better time than now to go to western Colorado to visit the wineries, cideries, distilleries, shops, family farm stands, festivals and art events on the Western Slope.
PHOTOS: COURTESY ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer
GLENWOOD SPRINGS Gateway from East to West My journey started with train ride from Denver to Glenwood Springs. For the finest of rail travel, don’t miss the new award-winning Rocky Mountaineer luxury train. The luxury-train service launched April 17, 2022, with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs and stayover at the Hotel Denver and then on to Moab. If you are familiar with the Canadian Rockies train trips that connect Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper in Western Canada, the Colorado-to-Utah service has the same level of amenities and grandeur. The Colorado-Utah route is similarly a one-way trip only—from Denver or from Moab—so when you hop off at Glenwood, you’ll need to hire a car to get around the Western Slope.
PHOTOS: COURTESY HOTEL DENVER
The Hotel Denver is conveniently located just across the street from the train station. The property, a literal mainstay for visitors for more than a century, has nods and winks to
Hotel Denver
Hotel Denver
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Back Door.
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uxurious poolscapes designed and built to satisfy your desires. Aquality Construction caters to clientele who demand only the fines craftsmanship. Glass tiles, tile mosaics, waterfalls, fiber optic lighting and smartphone automation…are you ready to dive in!
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PHOTOS: COURTESY IRON MOUNTAIN HOT SPRINGS
its past with stunning mosaic tiles that glitter in the sunlight and ornate turn-of-the-20thcentury furnishings mingled with pops of contemporary art and decor. Ask about the two-bedroom, two-bath, living-room suites, which are spacious and ideal for families and groups. Morning coffee and breakfast is a few steps to the right of the lobby at River Blend, and Glenwood Canyon Brewpub for a beer and pub fare is just opposite. Both are perfect when you don’t want to venture very far from the hotel. Don’t forget to ask for a spa towel from the hotel for a visit to nearby Iron Mountain Hot Springs or Glenwood Hot Springs. Iron Mountain’s mineral pools sit on the edge of the Colorado River. Soaking pools are segregated by temperature, ranging from a moderate 98 degrees to a steamy 107 degrees (two are ADA compliant), plus a cooler freshwater family pool with an elevated jetted tub (reservations are recommended). The Sopris Café is a popular spot midday and in the evening with healthy salads, charcuterie, flatbreads and sandwiches and desserts. Beverages include smoothies, wine on tap, local beers and ciders along with housemade cocktails.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Iron Mountain Hot Springs
Glenwood Hot Springs has been a family favorite for 130 years. It’s simple to access with a short walk over the pedestrian bridge from downtown. This one-of-a kind pool is so large you can swim laps, splash around in the large pool, watch the kids zoom down the water slide or soak away the day in the hot therapy pool. For the littlest guests, there is a zero-depth pool and a fountain play area. Rent a cabana a half day or full day for privacy and guaranteed shade from the summer sun. Both properties, Iron Mountain and Glenwood Hot Springs, are in the process of expansion to provide more soaking and therapy pools for adults. RETAIL THERAPY Retail therapy is as abundant as the hot therapy pools in Glenwood Springs. When you enter the double doors of Bullock’s, you’ll sense this is not just any western store. Owner Billy Bullock and his staff select only the finestmade Western clothing, boots, hats, household goods and furnishings. You’ll find brands like
Glenwood Hot Springs PHOTO: KRISTI BLOKHIN
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BE ENRICHED BY NATURES BEAUT Y at Gard e n of th e Gods!
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*Cancellation information – Reservations may be cancelled, or stays shortened, up to seven (7) days prior to arrival. Cancellations or shortened stays will forfeit deposit if made within seven (7) days of arrival. Deposit information – Your credit card will be charged immediately upon booking for the first night’s room rate plus 2.50% property improvement fee and 8.25% tax fee. Upon arrival to the resort, your card will be authorized for the remainder of your stay, as well as an incidental authorization equating to $100 per night. Any authorizations not used will be refunded to your card within five to seven business days. Resort Fee Additional – $38 per room, per night + tax. Resort Fee includes valet parking, in-room Nespresso Coffee & bottled water, PressReader digital newspapers/magazines, WiFi & access to club amenities, dining outlets, and group fitness classes.
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PHOTOS: COURTESY ART ON 8TH
Stetson hats, Blue Casey boots, hand-crafted Steel Strike leather alongside wood furniture from Buena Vista and masterfully loomed wool Escalante rugs from the Zapotec Indians in Oaxaca, Mexico. The store offers a private shopping experience with cocktails and catered appetizers (please reserve with a two-week notice).
Art on 8th
There is more than shopping at Bullock’s. As you enter the store, you’ll be greeted by a large granite headstone, inscribed “Doc Holliday, 1852–1887, He Died in Bed.” John Henry “Doc” Holiday died in this very place in 1887 when the Hotel Glenwood Springs occupied the same corner before it burned down. In the lower floor of the store, you’ll find a collection of memorabilia and lore of Doc Holliday’s life and adventures. At first glance, Art on 8th is another lovely shop with textiles like soft, hand-woven baby blankets, pillow covers, kitchen towels and aprons. Take the time to learn more because this store is the home of Mountain Valley Weavers. Special-needs adults, clients of Mountain Valley Developmental Services, learn to weave intricate loom patterns of pinwheel, point twill and log cabin and many others. All proceeds from the shop and art gallery benefit the weavers and other special needs individuals. DINING AND IMBIBING Deciding where to eat in Glenwood Springs is a fun exercise in deciding how far you want to take your indulgence quotient for the day. There isn’t enough space to mention them all, but here are a few as a starting point that are walking distance from The Hotel Denver. It may have been the life-size bronze pig that stands guard over the kitchen at The Pullman that inspired my threecourse pork meal—bacon pickled deviled eggs, house-made pork rinds and the heritage pork chop with smoked gouda grits. It’s a casual spot for serious food. Locals consistently vote Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse as a favorite hangout. Elk, beef and lamb are the stars of the menu. The portions are plentiful, and the staff has Western Slope charm to make your time there a pleasant experience. At the Riviera Supper Club, scratch-made sauces and seasonings take center stage. The duck confit, prime rib and beef Wellington with a bourbon molasses sauce are popular dishes. I lost track of the number of celebrations going on at other tables—wedding shower, local gala, birthday, anniversaries. Chef Travis doesn’t stay in the back, you’ll see him on the floor greeting and making sure his guests are well taken care of.
The Pullman
The Pullman
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Dentistry with an Emphasis on Whole-Body Wellness
At Vibrance Dentistry, we believe that dentistry is not “one size fits all” and that your experience should be pleasant and relaxing. Our commitment to Holistic and Biological dentistry ensures that your visit will leave you feeling better, looking better and living better. Our state-of-the-art equipment and spa-like amenities allow us to offer services that transcend traditional dentistry and promote whole-body wellness. We offer a full range of dental services, from family and preventative dentistry to cosmetic dentistry including smile makeovers. Call us today at 303-770-1116 or visit vibrancedentistry.com to schedule an appointment and discover the difference!
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Aspen has always embraced the importance of art. Now more than ever, art is central to the experiences of the entire valley. Limelight Hotel’s recent renovation is a gallery unto itself. Artist and activist, Paula Crown, of the family that owns the The Little Nell and Limelight Hotels partnered with Eaton Fine Art, an Austin-based art consultancy company to feature Colorado female artists and artists from around the globe with nature as the common theme. One such artist is Coloradobased Meredith Nemirov. Her mixed media art series, “Rivers Feed the Trees,” uses vintage topographic maps combined with paintings of trees in Aspen, fed by rivers and tributaries. Her work draws attention to climate change. The lounge in the newly renovated Limelight Hotel is Aspen’s new living room, with bright colors, natural woods and modern furnishings. The generous breakfast buffet for hotel guests transitions to a pizza bar for lunch and dinner for hotel guests and the public. The cocktail menu was designed by Sean Kenyon, owner of Denver’s William and Graham. With so many art events in the Roaring Fork Valley, it’s difficult to keep up. When in doubt, ask a local. The team at Ann Korologos Gallery in Basalt was happy to give me some guidance. The gallery features a carefully curated selection of Western-theme artists, like Michael Kessler’s aspen trees and Lisa Gordan’s horse sculptures, each captures the beauty and awe of Western landscapes and snapshots of life. The staff recommended visitors take a look at the newly opened The Arts Campus at Willits in Basalt (TACAW). The center features music, film, issues-based programs and family-friendly events.
PHOTOS: COURTESY LIMELIGHT HOTEL
ROARING FORK VALLEY Art Imitates Fine Living
The Wild Fig
BIG FLAVORS IN SMALL SPACES There is something special about restaurants in the big Colorado Rockies. I focused my dining time on a few spots in Aspen that are small and intimate, but big on flavor. The Wild Fig reminds me of a charming bistro that you might find in the Dolomites. The staff is friendly, funny, and you can tell they like what they do. My companion and I shared a crispy, ice-cold Greek salad, with a large hunk of feta, followed by a short rib and porcini pappardelle pasta and an airy cheesecake. Wear your topsiders for the Nantucket Sound–themed Clark’s Aspen. The oyster bar is a neighborhood hangout with east- and west-coast oysters, a generously meaty lobster roll and daily fresh catches. For lunch or a casual bite and to catch a game, visit The White House Tavern. This historic mining tavern dates back to 1830. It’s pitched rooves are à la American gothic. Sandwiches and salads are the mainstay. You can’t go wrong with the Macho Salad, creamed corn (for the table) and crispy chicken sandwich.
Limelight Hotel
Limelight Hotel
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PHOTO: COURTESY ANN KOROLOGOS GALLERY
Ann Korologos Gallery
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303-481-0224 ravennagolf.com/contact
GRAND JUNCTION & PALISADES Land of Magnificence
GO FOR THE WESTERN SLOPE ADVENTURE
Kulina Lani
Talbott Farms
visitgrandjunction.com
Another hub of innovation is the Maverick Hotel on the Colorado Mesa University campus. University students work on all aspects of the hotel. The Devil’s Kitchen is
Maverick Hotel
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PHOTO: COURTESY MAVERICK HOTEL
Family was a common theme during my time in Grand Junction. Talbott Farms takes claim to being a sixth-generation farming operation. “Peaches are our sweetheart and allow us to do what we do,” says Bruce Talbott, the patriarch of the operation. Bruce explains, Colorado peaches are unique because the winds, moisture and the intensity of the sun come together to make the best tasting peach (no argument here). Bruce’s sons, Joe and Charles, are taking advantage of what they learned from their father and are adding a new portfolio of products made from fruit, including hard ciders and wines. Many farms fall pressure to development, but the Talbott family is countering the temptation with innovation. “We want to keep our land as farmland. We do that with a second stream of products made with high quality fruit juices.” Visit the shop in Palisades for local produce and food products, hard cider, wine and kombucha.
PHOTO: COURTESY TALBOTT FARMS
“Aloha is very real in Colorado,” says Pam. Everyone is helping one another make really cool products. I saw this firsthand in the bakery. Rob Crowell, special project manager for Two Rivers Winery, gave me advice on what to order from the pastry case as he picked up a large box of freshly baked sourdough cinnamon rolls for his overnight guests at the winery’s ten-room chateau and event center. Two Rivers produces award winning wines, including cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, merlot, port and Syrah, which are available in their luxurious tasting room and shop. I also met Tess Peterson and Halsey Swetzoff in the bakery as they were dropping off freshly made cultured butter from their company, Ghost Rock Farm (see page 28).
When you drive through the Grand Valley on I-70, looks can be deceiving. On both sides of the highway are some of the least known and most spectacular sceneries in the state. Colorado National Monument’s 23-mile Rim Trail at 7,000 feet is a breathtaking drive or bike ride. Pull over often to take in the magnificent spires and multi-colored striations of the sandstone canyons. Hike down any one of the trails to get a better view. On the opposite side you’ll see the Book Cliffs, with heart pounding hikes and mountain bike trails, and a wild horse preserve. The Grand Mesa is an alpine wonderland of firs, aspen and 300 lakes—perfect for camping, hiking or staying in one of the many small alpine lodges. Visit Grand Junction can assist for bike rentals, guided rafting, ATVs and Jeep tours of area.
PHOTO: COURTESY VISIT GRAND JUNCTION
There is a renaissance of innovation in food and beverages happening in Grand Junction (GJ). It starts with the Colorado ingredients, but there is more to it. New ideas are being born in the Grand Valley that expand on the abundance. “We feel blessed to be a part of what is going on here,” said Pam Harsh, owner of Kulina Lani sourdough bakery in Grand Junction. Born in Paonia, Harsh left Colorado in 2014, so her husband could work in organic corn growing on the Big Island of Hawaii. While there she mastered the art naturally leavened sourdough with Kulina Lani bakery (translated to heavenly corn). She and her husband Shane moved back to Colorado recently to support family. When an ideal location opened for Kulina Lani 2.0, she and Shane transplanted the business model to Grand Junction. What do Coloradans think of her sourdough croissants, breads, pastries, pizzas and sandwiches made from locally sourced and milled wheat? On a weekday morning visit, I seldom saw the line slow or the staff take a breath because of a strong, steady stream of customers.
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GATEWAY A Destination You can opt for a side trip from Grand Junction, but Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa is a destination all its own. In addition to rooms and suites in the lodge, they offer private casitas to suit the whole family—and they’re luxuriously appointed in upscale Southwestern style, but it’s the resort amenities you’ll love. On the property, you’ll enjoy two pools and a hot tub and plenty of lounging areas with stunning views of the Palisade rock formation stretching 2,000 feet above. There’s a luxury spa for winding down and various dining options, including a poolside cantina and private dining at your request. Gateway Canyons Auto Museum is home to a private collection, but if you want to spend your staycation being a bit more active, there’s plenty of hiking, climbing and mountain biking in the area. The resort also offers offroad Jeep and ATV tours, wine country tours, helicopter adventures, horseback riding and shooting sports. The resort is planning its fullscale, in-person holiday events, including a summer concert series. How many times have you driven through the Grand Valley on I-70 and wondered about what was in or on those grand mesas? It’s time to stop wondering and venture west to take in the flavors, views, adventures and charm of the Western Slope.
PHOTOS: COURTESY GATEWAY CANYONS RESORT & SPA
Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa
Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa
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PHOTO: COURTESY MAVERICK HOTEL
a must-go-to restaurant for the best of local cuisine, attentive servers and views that are unparalleled. The top of the hotel restaurant, bar and patio afford breathtaking views of the mesas that curve around the city. The menu changes with the seasons, expect to see a menu full of the same fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, wines and spirits sold around the Grand Valley. Other restaurants to put on your list include: Pêche. Restaurant in Palisades, Chef Matthew Chasseur brought his global experience to the Western Slope for an remarkable combination of an unpretentious vibe using the finest ingredients prepared flawlessly; Josh Niernberg, chef and owner of Bin707 Foodbar and Taco Party—both in GJ,—was recognized as a 2020 James Beard Award Semifinalist, in the Best Chef: Mountain category. He aims to capture the taste and essence of Grand Junction in every dish, by using ingredients like Ute tribe maize; Colorado lamb, sunchokes, fava beans and Alpenglow mushrooms.
27 JULY 2022
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// trends
Summer Skincare TAKE CARE OF THE DERM when you head outdoors By Courtney La Marine, L.E. CHANGING SEASONS means changing your skincare regimen. Now that it’s summer, you’ll be sporting skimpier clothing and will need to think about your whole body—not just your face. Here are some top tips for your daily routine to help keep your skin healthy and fresh. #1 MIND YOUR UV Several factors determine the UV index, such as the season, time of day, cloud cover and more. But the big one to note here is that we are a mile closer to the sun than our sea-level counterparts. This is one of the first things Mona Sadeghpour, MD, board-certified dermatologist at SkinMed Institute, educates her clients about. According to the EPA, UV increases 2 percent for every 1,000 feet you gain in altitude. So, you do the math. And while we love our 300+ days a year of sunshine, it can wreak havoc on our delicate epidermis. #2 CLEANSE GENTLY Just because you’re sweating more and possibly outside getting dirty doesn’t mean you should go gung-ho on washing your face. Do wash—by all means—because you don’t want buildup clogging your pores. But don’t use harsh astringents. “Cleanser is not moving the needle for your skin health,” says Dr. Sadeghpour. “Just use a gentle cleanser—one that just does the job of cleaning.” #3 PROTECTION MEANS MORE THAN SPF There’s more to consider than just UV when it comes to your skin’s health. There are pollution and chemicals in the environment, and Dr. Sadeghpour reminds us: A particular concern
we have in Colorado is pollution from wildfire smoke. The best way to create a protective barrier between the environmental assault and our skin is a topical antioxidant, and the most common is vitamin C. Adding vitamin C to your morning regimen is a must, and you should do it all year long, not just in the summer. On to SPF: You should opt for 30 or higher. And when it comes to protection from light rays, there’s a whole new consideration: blue light. We know prolonged exposure to emitters like cell phones and computer screens can damage your eyes and is not healthy for your circadian rhythm, and now we know it can damage your skin. This affects those with darker skin and pigmentary skin issues, but you can combat it by making your daily sunscreen a tinted one. Most of them have iron oxide, a filter for blue light. #4 DON’T OVER-MOISTURIZE When it comes to a moisturizer, consider your daily activities. Are you in an office setting? If you are inside with air conditioning, your skin may feel dryer as air conditioning dehumidifies the air. In this case, keeping your moisturizer the same might be best. But when you’re outdoors and possibly sweating in the heat, opt for a lightweight moisturizer. “Heavier moisturizers are more blocking, so they cause acne or milia,” says Dr. Sadeghpour. “There is such a thing as overhydrating.”
clothing takes all the guesswork out of sun protection. No need to worry about reapplying or if you’re sweating off your sunscreen—except for your face, of course. The fabrics are made to be breathable and sweat wicking, and with a UPF rating of 50, they block 98 percent of the sun’s rays. Her second recommendation is an antioxidant supplement such as Heliocare that helps the skin protect itself. #6 DIAL-IN YOUR NIGHTTIME ROUTINE “Nighttime is crucial for repairing damage to the skin that’s already been done,” says Dr. Sadeghpour. And the best way to do that is by focusing on skin turnover. Stimulating the growth of new skin is the best way to keep skin healthy and fresh, but the turnover cycle slows down as we age. In addition to vitamin C, ginseng, antioxidants and other collagenstimulating methods, topical products such as retinol and hyaluronic acid can be great options, too. A dermatologist can help you determine which would be best based on your skin type. Amping up your skin turnover can decrease age spots, sunspots and even help shed precancer spots. SKINMED INSTITUTE 720.381.2600; skinmedinstitute.com
#5 TAKE CARE OF YOUR WHOLE BODY For whole-body skincare, Dr. Sadeghpour has two recommendations. First, photo-protective
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INFLUENCERS
// the tastemaker
The Box Bar vineyard in Cortez is 12 acres of riesling, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay and pinot noir grapes. It’s farmed by hand with no artificial sprays or fertilizers. PHOTO: COURTESY BEN PARSONS
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INFLUENCERS
// the tastemaker
Uprooted
Wine industry disruptor BEN PARSONS takes on the Western Slope By Kastle Waserman
WHEN BEN PARSONS started the urban winery Infinite Monkey Theorem in downtown Denver and sold wine in cans in 2008, he never thought he’d become a major disruptor of the wine industry. “Rather than having a vineyard and living in the countryside, I wanted to live in the city,” he explains. His efforts revolutionized the industry. Now canned wines and urban wineries are everywhere. Ironically, as Parsons grew older, he wanted to leave the city and start a vineyard in a rural area. “I wanted to be more involved in growing the grapes,” he says. “If you can control that part, you can have a better wine.”
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INFLUENCERS
// the tastemaker
He left Infinite Monkey Theorem in 2019 and moved to the Western Slope to start a 12-acre vineyard outside of Cortez that he farms himself. He opened The Ordinary Fellow winery and tasting room in November 2021 in downtown Palisade. Just as with Infinite Monkey Theorem, his timing may be spot on. “When I started the urban winery, Denver was right on the cusp. The farm-to-table movement had started, and people were excited about where their ingredients came from. It made perfect sense that people would support a local winery,” Parsons says. “Palisade feels like Denver did in 2008. It’s really starting to grow with good restaurants. A lot of the produce they buy is grown here. It’s nice to be here and help drive it forward.” He also sells his wine in Denver restaurants, including The Truffle Table, The Greenwich and Table 6. “Having the support of a good restaurant and an educated waitstaff pushing the product is ideal,” he says. “Then people ask where they can buy it, and they get intrigued to visit the Western Slope.” PHOTOS: COURTESY BEN PARSONS
Ben Parsons and the Box Bar vineyard in Cortez,
“I wanted to be more involved in growing the grapes ... If you can control that part, you can have a better wine.” — Ben Parsons
While the Ordinary Fellow Winery sells only bottled wine, Parsons still has a hand in the canned beverage industry. When Albert Hammond Jr., the guitarist for The Strokes, wanted to capture the essence of his many years traveling in a canned cocktail, he turned to Parsons to help him create a premium wine-based seltzer called Jetway. Parsons met Hammond through a friend of a friend: “We started chatting daily about the beverage space, what we enjoyed drinking and what opportunities were out there. It came together very organically.” Hammond got the idea for Jetway after tasting an amaretto spritz in a bar in Italy. They created a marketing concept for the drink based on the golden age of travel when, as Parsons says, “travel was more relaxed and special.”
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Get Where You’re Going with Style and Personality www.col ogolfand t ur f.net 11757 S. Wa dswor t h Blvd. • Lit t leton , CO 80125 303-761-3332
INFLUENCERS
// the tastemaker
Some Ordinary Fellow wines are made from grapes sourced from Washington vineyards: McNary vineyard (right) and Beverly vineyard (below).
PHOTOS: COURTESY BEN PARSONS
Jetway’s differentiator is the absence of cane sugars and artificial flavors. The low 5-percent alcohol content and hand-size, 8-ounce cans make it the perfect drink for socializing. The grapes are grown in Washington State, and it’s currently only available in the Southern California market. But, as they expand distribution, Parsons says it doesn’t hurt to have an actual rock star at meetings. Hammond isn’t someone who just puts his name on it. “He’s very involved, especially in the creative side.” Parsons says he’s proud to be considered an innovator and disruptor in the industry he loves. “The canned wine category has exploded since Infinite Monkey Theorem. It’s been coined one of the most important movements in the wine industry. I’ll wear that until the day I die!” 62
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On and Off the Fairway
REDLANDS MESA is more than just golf; it’s a lifestyle By Heather Shoning
Redlands Mesa has seen significant changes in the last handful of years as it’s grown from a small number of golf club residents to a large community. Six years ago, this planned development had about 40 homes. Today there are 200 homes filled with golf-lifestyle-loving residents—many from the Front Range, and there’s room for more. As such, under new ownership since 2019, the golf club has grown to match the residents’ energy and enthusiasm.
“The new culture, our vision and mission, is to provide a high-end resort living and lifestyle with a welcoming, fun culture,” says Sandra Weckerly, general manager. “The staff is more approachable, our customer service is elevated, and we make it feel like a vacation resort experience whether you’re local or visitor. Even our homeowners have noticed the difference, and they tell us they feel like they are in a resort every day.”
To further bolster the community aspect of Redlands Mesa, they are offering more events to welcome guests to the resort for reasons beyond just golf—in fact, a recent holiday brunch drew 400 visitors to the restaurant. “There are so many opportunities for outdoor recreation in addition to golf,” says Weckerly. “Redlands Mesa is like living and playing in a national park—eat here, dine here, play here.”
Residents enjoy the resort-style pool with pool-side food and beverage service, and memberships are also available to Grand Junction residents. The onsite Ocotillo Restaurant and Bar is open to the public, as is the course, and Weckerly says they like to call it “upscale casual: we’re the upscale, the guests can be the casual.” While they serve dishes such as filet mignon and braised beef roast, they also serve fish and chips and a club sandwich, among many other mouth-watering dishes.
REDLANDS MESA GOLF COURSE 970.263.9270; redlandsmesa.com
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FOLLOW THE LINK to Colorado AvidGolfer for more golf on the Western Slope
PHOTO: SHAWN BAUGH, COURTESY REDLANDS MESA
IF YOU’RE A GOLFER or even a golfer wannabe, you’ve got to course-hop on the other side of the Divide—you could make a summer staycation of it. While there’s a long list of great courses in the western part of our fair state, you won’t want to miss Redlands Mesa in Grand Junction. Lose yourself on the rolling fairways of the best golf course on the Western Slope, according to the readers of our own Colorado AvidGolfer magazine. And while you’re there, be sure to check out the evolving residential golf enclave.
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