Thirst Magazine March-April 2021

SERVING UP THE COLORADO EXPERIENCE

Vol. 6, No. 3 March-April 2021

WESTERN MESAS

EXPLORING GRAND JUNCTION’S PLAYGROUNDS

21

STATE PARKS TO DISCOVER IN 2021

GOOD READS

MOM & POP BOOKSTORES SHINE A LIGHT

Seriously Local Independent Local One of a Kind

&

LIBATIONS BEYOND

Time to explore every corner of Colorado

As a small Westminster company, it’s our business to continually feature the state’s small business community as we promote the Colorado experience. And like most people, our excitement about getting back into the true Colorado lifestyle is bubbling up like a hot spring in winter. But with COVID-19 still overshadowing some of our movements, there has never been a better time to find safe destinations to fill your lungs with fresh air.

As spring comes into bloom, every corner of the state becomes a playground. From Fishers Peak, the new state park west of Trinidad, to the Grand Junction area’s vast amount of public lands, we are encouraging people to spread out, enjoy the natural resources and do it with an eye toward preservation for future generations. We’ve outlined 21 state parks to visit this year that have every activity for families and thrill-seekers alike.

While on the road, a good book can be a wonderful companion. For those exploring the Denver-area’s mom-and-pop bookstores, the breadth of even the smallest shops is impressive. New, used, local and worldly, the adult candy stores are worth and afternoon of your time.

We are also redoubling our efforts at Thirst Colorado to bring our readers a fresh perspective on the entrepreneurs that make Colorado tick. Small businesses come in the form of visual artists, musicians, gear makers, restaurateurs and of course, purveyors of finely crafted libations. We’ll help you understand the driving force behind their push to succeed.

And yes, live music is beginning to creep back into our lives. It might be tricky to get tickets to a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater this summer but small venues are hosting impressive local artists, such as Saja Butler, who you can read about inside this issue.

As always, please feel free to share with us your favorite people, destinations and businesses that make our state unique.

Joe Ross Associate Publisher and Editor

facebook.com/thirstcolorado twitter.com/thirstcolorado @thirstcolorado

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Publisher Paul Johnson paul@thirstcolorado.com Associate Publisher & Editor Joe Ross joe@thirstcolorado.com Sales Tod Cavey Jane Howard Rebel Hunter Design & Layout Sandy Birkey President & Founder Emeritus Wilbur E. Flachman Marketing & Distribution Neill Pieper Editorial Intern Jay McKinney Contributors Erica Buehler, Steve Graham, Kyle Kirves, Dennis Mangers, Terri Ross For advertising and editorial information, please contact Joe Ross at 303.428.9529 Ext. 227 or email joe@thirstcolorado.com Proud member of the Colorado Brewers Guild Thirst Colorado is produced by The Publishing House, a division of Colorado Word Works, Inc. The Publishing House also produces Colorado’s Performing Arts Publications, serving arts venues along the Front Range.

7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, Colorado 80030 303.428.9529

Drink up life in large amounts, but restrict your alcohol consumption. We do not endorse or support excessive drinking.

Thirst Colorado is published six times a year by The Publishing House, 7380 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, CO 80030. © The Publishing House, 2021. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. Except where noted, the content of Thirst Colorado is the property of the magazine and should only be reprinted with permission. Thirst Colorado is not responsible for false or misleading claims made in advertising or editorial materials published herein. Thirst Colorado Magazine is distributed in part by DJM Distribution, Inc., and Community Racks Distribution, LLC.

A charming mountain town. With its own tubing hill, beginner ski-ride hill, Nordic center & sleigh rides.

Thirsty? Frisco has 2 breweries, 1 distillery & 2 coffee roasters.

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Main Street Of The Rockies

THIRST COLORADO | March-April 2021

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INTERSECTIONS

14 Just Art

Creativity transcends traditional mediums for this artist

22 Local Melodies

Southern soul melds with a cool Colorado vibe

24

Brewery Spotlight

38

Novel Strand stands out in the Baker neighborhood

18

28 Prime Pairings

A warming Colorado-spun recipe for your slow cooker

34 Untapped

Virtual and in-person events to check out as spring arrives

30

On the cover: The sun sets over a small lake on Grand Mesa near Grand Junction.

Photo: C.I. Bieker, courtesy Visit Grand Junction

14

44 Brewery, Distillery, Winery, Cidery and Meadery Guide Find great craft beverages wherever you end up in Colorado

ADVENTURES

8 Western Colorado

Explore Grand Junction’s wealth of outdoor activities

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18

Backpacking Gems

30

21 in ’21

Lesser-known jaunts into the wilderness

Check this impressive list of Colorado state parks

36 Waterfront Dining

Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while dining in style

58

Good Reads

Mom & pop bookstores shine light on the city

Beautiful f loors.

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SPRINGTIME ON THE MESA March and April are the perfect months for a Grand Junction adventure

By Steve Graham

D

eep springtime snow is a given in much of Colorado. But the mesas and high desert of Mesa County are typically dry and warm in the spring. And with 76 percent of the area around Grand Junction preserved as public land, recreation opportunities abound.

“If there’s something that you’re interested in, there’s probably an opportunity to do that here,” said Arlene Jackson, chief of interpretation at Colorado National Monument.

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Photo courtesy Visit Grand Junction

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Photo: C.I. Bieker, courtesy Visit Grand Junction

Grand Junction is flanked by Grand Mesa, known for great mountain biking trails, and the Colorado National Monument, which is not a monument or statue.

“We are so much more than that,” Jackson said.

Rather, it is a large outdoor playground for hikers and cyclists, with massive spires, canyons and climbs, and a captivating night sky.

“At night, it’s a dark sky zone providing a spectacular starscape in the clear desert sky,” said Elizabeth Fogarty, director of Visit Grand Junction.

To find less crowded adventures, drive past the monument to McInnis Canyon National Conservation Area, a 123,000acre wilderness of canyons with the second highest concentration of arches in North America.

Chris Hermann is interim executive director of the Colorado Canyons Association, which works to protect and preserve McInnis Canyon and two other nearby conservation areas.

“We want to make sure they stay as they are,” he said. “The flipside of that is making sure that we don’t love them to death.”

To that end, his group advocates “leave no trace” recreation. He wants everyone to stay on marked trails, pack out all waste and respect wildlife.

He said the past year brought huge increases in visitation for these areas. With many recreation activities closed during COVID-19 lockdowns, more hikers, bikers and motorists were traveling through, and jeopardizing fragile cryptobiotic soil and other parts of the ecosystem.

Park officials ask that you respect the environment and wildlife while hiking, biking and horseback riding in and around all these recreation areas during the warm, dry spring.

The following are some activities in the Grand Junction area.

HIKING

Jackson said early spring often brings comfortable hiking temperatures and few visitors to Colorado National Monument.

By April, temperatures and crowds are increasing. Also, a variety of wildflowers, including cactus, bloom in March and April.

Throughout spring, trails tend to dry out earlier around the monument than on the Front Range.

“The soil is a lot rockier and sandier,” Jackson said.

Jackson’s favorite spring hike in the monument is No Thoroughfare Canyon, which passes some natural pools and small waterfalls, and is among the greenest areas in spring.

“If you’re careful and quiet, you can see the frogs and toads back there,” she said.

You might even catch migratory birds and bighorn sheep with their lambs.

Hermann said he is often hiking in shorts and t-shirts by March, and he enjoys the relative isolation of the McInnis Canyon area.

He suggests the Rabbit Ears hike in Rabbit Valley, a short drive off Interstate 70 west of Fruita (note that Google Maps can’t help you find the trailhead. Consult a local or a guide).

“It gets you up to places where you can see the river,” said Hermann. “If the weather is right, you can see the La Sal Mountains.”

He said hikers also likely won’t run into ATV or mountain bike traffic.

After any of these hikes, replenish your fluids and calories at Ramblebine Brewing Company, a new taphouse with an attached food truck in Grand Junction.

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© Jim / Adobe Stock

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Outside Fruita, the Kokopelli trails comprise 26 routes and 49 miles of riding that blends death-defying ridges, technical descents and flat desert cruising. The trails have something for everyone, including a connection to a 140-mile ride to the mountain biking mecca of Moab, Utah.

Hermann said the secret is now out about the Pollock Bench Trail in McInnis Canyon, a 5-mile lollipop loop of desert singletrack for either hikers or mountain bikers.

On the other side of Grand Junction, the first phase of the Palisade Plunge Trail is slated to open this spring, offering 17 miles of singletrack dropping from Grand Mesa into Palisade.

Time it right and you can celebrate the adrenaline rush at Peach Street Distillers or Talbott’s Cider Company. Both make craft beverages in Palisade, sometimes with the legendary local peaches.

ROAD BIKING

The 23-mile Rim Rock Drive through Colorado National Monument is one of the top rides in the state, and was a highlight of

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the old Coors International Bicycle Classic.

With 2,300 feet of climbing over stunning vistas, it is a great way to see the area and get a serious workout.

Try to hit the road early in the morning.

The rising sun on the mesas is stunning, and vehicle traffic is at a minimum. Park crews minimized the number of guardrails, and the shoulder is mostly narrow to nonexistent, so slow your roll and keep your eyes peeled. It’s also recommended to ride with lights at any time of day, especially for visibility in tunnels.

The route ends in Fruita, and cyclists can recover at Copper Club Brewing Company, known as “Fruita’s Living Room,” before taking a flat shortcut back to Grand Junction.

HORSEBACK RIDING

The Little Book Cliffs area is just north of Grand Junction. Roughly 36,000 acres of rugged canyons can be reached on horseback, and is one of the remaining wild horse habitats in the nation. Ride horses to visit wild horses.

Reach the area off a dirt road from the Cameo exit on Interstate 70. The gate to

the area is locked until May 1, but hikers and horseback riders can enter year-round.

Rimrock Adventures in Fruita offers guided horseback rides for those who want to explore the sanctuary.

After a day in the saddle, head back to Grand Junction and stop for a drink at Highlands Distillery, which also offers tours.

There is plenty to do in Grand Junction.

The Art on the Corner program has brought more than 100 sculptures to the downtown area, which has plenty of restaurants, galleries and an ax-throwing bar.

Also, paddleboarding and rafting on the Colorado River starts up again in the spring.

Finally, the city hopes to host some concerts again this summer at a new amphitheater in Las Colonias Park.

As always, check local businesses and guides for the latest restrictions and information about COVID-19.

Steve Graham is a freelance writer and former newspaper editor who takes his two boys biking, hiking and brewery-hopping in northern Colorado.

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By Kyle Kirves

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AN ARTIST'S SIMPLE PLEA

CONSIDER THE WORK

By Kyle Kirves

A

rtist Gregg Deal wants you to consider the work. “You can either love my work or hate my work – I’m ok with either one – but consider it. Complacency,” he says, “is not consideration.”

Deal hails from Utah but now calls Peyton, Colorado, home. He creates in a wide-range of media, from painting to performance and everything in between. A member of the Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe, his work blends elements culled from his Indigenous ancestry with pop-culture references to create something informed by his identity, yes, but at odds with the cultural prejudices associated with the term Native American art.

“Contemporary Native art is not fully defined,” Deal says. “So that really gives me the ability to define the space that I occupy.

Navigating identity has a lot to do with constantly trying to overcome the perspective of people who won’t engage with it because it doesn’t look familiar to them. It doesn’t strike them as authentic.” He suggests that makes it sometimes challenging to reach audiences who lack the proper context, and that a lot of things get lost in tropes or antiquated ideas.

“Trying to overcome that (bias) has proven to be difficult. But the consistency of my work has allowed it to exist in spaces it wouldn’t otherwise get to.”

The notion of contemporary art should not be limited by the race of its creator, Deal suggests, and that just because a work is inspired by Indigenous identity shouldn’t necessitate a “political” or “activist” label. “I’m really a contemporary artist whose work is informed by an Indigenous identity,” he says.

He credits the Black Lives Matter movement with helping break down those perceptions, and is cautiously optimistic about the prospects of the movement. “Many are trying to engage with people of color in a way that’s hopefully more meaningful,” he says.

“We’ll see.”

To say that Deal’s work manifests itself in Colorado in a big way is actually literal. Anyone who’s been to the corner of Tejon Street and Pikes Peak Avenue in Colorado Springs has seen his work in the form of a 77-foot mural on the side of an office building. “Take Back the Power” is designed to raise awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and members of the LGBTQ communities. The image is of a haloed girl in a punk rock t-shirt, Deal’s trademark handprint facepaint over her mouth.

“With that mural, in that case – I mean that mural is huge … you don’t realize how big that is until you’re up that high,” Deal says. "And it raises the issues and asks for consideration.

Photos courtesy Gregg Deal

March-April 2021

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And it creates an image of diversity, both ethnically and politically, in Colorado Springs.”

The mural is a potent statement piece, but is also very personal to Deal: the model is Deal’s daughter, Sage.

“From a practical point of view, my daughter is the most easily accessible Indigenous woman in my life. So, I can draw her, I can use her as a subject, I can pull her in.

But she would tell you, it’s not even necessarily her. She is a figure that is existing there, engaging these multiple different issues. All those things exist within that space at the same time. Yet missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls are at the forefront.”

A dedicated and family-first father, Deal says it is a privilege to have his family in his work. He knows that his experience informs his art, and speaks to his family as well. He hopes it makes it a little easier for them to travel the same path he has. “They are going to see and experience what I’ve seen and experienced, he says.”

Not all of Deal’s work is on the grand scale of a 77-foot mural, naturally. When asked what his favorite medium is, he chooses not to choose. “I love painting. I love murals – they kind of remind me of graffiti in the ‘90s.

Getting outside and getting dirty and kind of sweating through that process. Performance art is very freeing and has informed my other work by bringing a little more audacity to everything.” As for his favorite work, Deal points to “Rise” as an iconic, lasting image associated with the artist.

In the near future, Deal will be producing, performing and installing a series about the unlikely intersection of punk rock and Indigenous identity. “It’s pretty personal,” Deal says. “It’s spoken word and musically driven. There’s a lot of things in there that speak to things that sound familiar, and the struggle to figure out who you are as a Native person.”

Ultimately, though, what Gregg Deal wants is for you to consider the work.

“The work is what’s most important.

At least, it’s most important to me,” Deal says. “Pushing against all these different concepts or ideas play into that idea of loving or hating it. More than anything else, truth is where I’m trying to land – truth of experience, or historical truths, or social or political truths. I want to provide something that is wholeheartedly truth.”

Find Gregg Deal’s work at greggdeal.com or on Instagram and other social media.

Kyle Kirves drinks beer, plays guitar, runs trails, and manages projects – all with varying degrees of success. While not a craftsman himself, he is quite content writing about the Colorado artisans who create such wonderful things and memorable experiences.

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GET WILD

Photo: Neill Pieper

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Plan backpacking trips far from the maddening crowds

By Steve Graham

S

ome parts of the Colorado backcountry may not feel like wilderness as much as they once did. Even backpackers are likely to have some company throughout Rocky Mountain National Park and on most 14ers.

The best-known parts of Colorado attract plenty of adventurers. Still, it’s a big state with a lot of forested public land, so here are some other suggestions for a more isolated backpacking trip.

Trailhead just off Highway 9 north of Silverthorne in the Eagles Nest Wilderness.

Set out on a 10-mile hike past Surprise Lake to a view of Cataract Lake from the top of the trail. There is a short and steep trail from there to Upper Cataract Lake.

This streamside route has abundant wildflowers but can attract a lot of mosquitoes early in the season.

Also look for bear, elk and moose in the meadows near the trail.

BUFFALO PEAKS WILDERNESS LOOP

WOODY CREEK TRAIL

This is the rarest of finds — a moderate 12-mile loop trail suitable for beginner backpackers that typically isn’t too crowded, owing partly to being 10 miles off the highway, and partly to the distance from any 14ers.

The trail, south of Fairplay, passes meadows, forest, waterfalls and creeks. There is plenty of access to water, and maybe too much water for the spring and early summer. Expect wet boots after stream crossings any time of year, and soggy trails early in the season.

There are several campsites at the top of the loop. You can also add some elevation and challenge yourself by climbing the namesake Buffalo Peak 13ers.

This 18-mile round-trip is a year-round option, as it begins with a shorter trek to the Marcy and McNamara huts. It then continues to the Woody Creek headwaters, up to a steep ridge and down to Hunter Creek.

The trail outside Aspen doesn’t travel to a particular destination but it offers some magnificent views of the Maroon Bells. There is also some wildlife spotting, including bears, so take care with food.

The trail is rarely traveled and not obvious in some areas. Look for cut logs and tree notches for clues to the right path. Dispersed camping is widely available; be sure to get off the trail at least 100 feet.

UPPER CATARACT LAKE TRAIL Another rare pleasure is a long, shaded trail that is lightly traveled, but relatively easy to reach. Less than two hours from Denver, find the Surprise

LAKE PARK LOOP For a longer three- or four-day trip, or a really hardcore weekend outing, try a 23-mile loop near Florissant that travels by Goose Creek, Lake Park, McCurdy Park and Hankins Pass.

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BE SAFE AND SMART The isolation of a little-traveled trail means safety and preparation become even more important. Light traffic can mean a trail is not as well marked, and it is more likely to be both remote and challenging. Also, you are unlikely to encounter others who might be able to lend a hand.

The following expert tips apply to any backcountry adventure, particularly for remote wilderness trips in the spring and early summer months.

Stay hydrated: Carry one gallon per person per night and treat all stream water before consuming. While it’s tempting to slip a hip flask into the backpack, avoid alcohol and caffeine to limit dehydration and altitude sickness.

Also, always purify stream water. It’s tempting to think that headwater streams are clean and pure, but giardia is always a risk.

Be thoughtful about timing your water run. “Don’t get water at dusk and dawn because that’s when the wildlife is getting water,” said Barry Sweet, wilderness office manager for Rocky Mountain National Park.

Dress right: Plan for freezing temperatures through June for most alpine areas. Remember that summer doesn’t necessarily start on Memorial Day. “It’s not completely summer until the middle of July,” Sweet said. He also suggests bringing traction devices for shoes in the spring and early summer, as lingering snow is likely.

Be avalanche aware: “Avalanches don’t just impact people new to the backcountry, they can impact seasoned backcountry outdoor enthusiasts,” said Bridget Kochel, public information officer for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Check the avalanche forecast and take a safety course. “You can’t really help yourself in the backcountry if you don’t know what to protect yourself from,” Kochel said. In general, prepare for challenges in snowy spring adventures.

“It is important to be mindful that winter sports require a different level of physical stamina,” Kochel said. “For example, if you are hiking and fall into deep snow you have to be able to pull yourself out. Being responsible outdoors can help prevent overloading our first responders and search and rescue teams.”

Be bear aware: After seeing a yearling bear in my central Fort Collins driveway, I can attest that bears appear in the most surprising places. Sweet said at least 24 bears live in Rocky Mountain National Park, even though that number may be dropping. “We kill a bear a year because of a human interaction,” he said. Carry bear spray, wear a bell or other noisemaker and put your food and other scented items in bear canisters.

Listen for wind: Sweet has also seen plenty of wind-caused accidents in the park. “It’s the fall that kills you but the wind that blows you off balance,” he said. “On exposed ledges, listen with all your ears.

When you start to hear it in the distance, you go from a 2-point contact to a 3-point contact or a 4-point contact.” In other words, stabilize yourself by putting one or two hands on the ground.

Camp safely: Try to set up your campsite away from standing dead trees. Pitch your tent where others have already camped, and keep the site small. “We don’t want site creep,” Sweet said.

Communicate: Finally, tell someone where you are going and have a backup plan in case of problems. Call the local forest service office for conditions and closures, particularly after last year’s widespread fires. For a list of offices, visit cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo

Start at the Spruce Grove Campground, climb past Lizard Rock to cross Hankins Pass. The trail then climbs up to Lake Park and drops into a valley with excellent views of summer wildflowers and fall foliage.

The full loop climbs more than 5,600 feet, with some very steep stretches. It also includes some long legs without ponds and streams, so plan to carry plenty of water.

The route links several trails, which can be hard to find. Be sure to carry or download a good map.

LONE EAGLE PEAK Finally, start at the Monarch Lake Trailhead north of Granby for a challenging 14-mile trek to some of the most beautiful views in the state.

Hike past Cascade Falls and several other waterfalls on the climb up to Mirror Lake. At the right time of day, the namesake mirror is a reflection of the relatively short but isolated and visually stunning Lone Eagle Peak.

There are also plenty of connections to climbing routes as well.

Note that the Indian Peaks wilderness has a $5 parking fee. Overnight trips require a permit, and camping is limited to designated and reserved sites. Be sure to request a permit several months in advance, especially for summer weekends.

Steve Graham is a freelance writer and former newspaper editor who takes his two boys biking, hiking and brewery-hopping in northern Colorado.

© bdavid32/ Adobe Stock

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TerrapinCareStation.com

Photos: Backstage Flash

Southern Soul Saja Butler uses African instruments, South Carolina style to produce uplifting soul and bluegrass music

By Steve Graham

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S

aja Butler just wants her audience and students to feel at peace. “Music is a gift, it’s a present in the present,” she said in a phone interview from her home studio. “I hope people use my music to just sit on the porch and listen.”

The soulful northern Colorado “afrobanjo” player and guitarist recorded her first “real” solo album in that studio this year.

She is also working on a new album with her band, Lois and the Lantern, and she uses the studio for remote and in-person music lessons.

She offers her voice, guitar, ukulele and banjo students a cozy and welcoming space to relax and be themselves. On stage, at least when concerts can take place, she exudes natural bliss and confidence.

“I’m a naturally happy, bubbly-assed person,” she said. “… I’m a cool person, I’m a nerd, but I’m also sexy as hell.”

On the other hand, Butler makes clear that blissful doesn’t mean ignorant.

Particularly in the past year, she has been very active and outspoken in the Black Lives Matter movement and other social justice causes. After the police killing of George Floyd, a “Saja Speaks” blog post went viral, and sparked an intense online conversation.

She wants people to have the difficult conversations, and seek out differences.

“A lot of people don’t stray outside of their race, number one, and don’t stray outside of their political and cultural spaces,” Butler said.

Although she lost friends over her blog post, she refuses to give up on the opportunity for healing and positivity.

“The cynicism shouldn’t be the only emotion,” she said. “You cut out people in your lives, but you cut out yourself.”

Butler’s music is also infused with her politics and passion, and she said she can’t make art that avoids these realities.

“If you’re just going to be a piece of wet bread, how do you even write music that’s fulfilling?” she asked.

Butler grew up in South Carolina, and started singing and playing clarinet in the fifth grade, when she discovered her passion for music.

“It opened up a world for me and opened up something that was so natural for me.

After playing “the 20,000 hours that I needed,” she had a solid grounding in music theory.

She moved to Tennessee for college courses in religious studies and African American studies, then started singing with friends at open mic nights.

She also went to a music store to try some new instruments.

“I picked up a banjo and it was like finding your soul mate,” she said.

At first, she faced some skepticism as a black woman playing the banjo, but she learned about the banjo’s African roots.

Slaves originally brought the instrument to the South. Black musicians only stopped playing banjo when it became a central part of offensive black-faced minstrel shows.

Butler is proudly helping bring back the black banjo tradition, and said she gets fewer skeptical glances today as a black banjo player.

She eventually followed some friends to Colorado. At first, she wasn’t playing music.

Instead, she worked at a food co-op and lived a fairly nomadic life.

“I met this guy and we got hippie married,” she said. “We traveled the country with our two dogs.”

After returning to Colorado and breaking off the relationship, she went to a small contemporary music college in Fort Collins, and met Aaron Youngberg and some other prominent northern Colorado banjo players and musicians.

Butler recorded a solo album, but said that work no longer reflects her music or life, so she has removed all traces of it from the Internet.

She opened a studio for performances and lessons in 2013, and played in a couple of local bands. She started sitting in on a regular all-girl jam session they called the Clam Jam. She met the other women in the bluegrass collective Lois and the Lantern, and believed it was a good fit.

“I thought ‘I really want to join this group,’” Butler said. “What I didn’t know is that they were saying ‘I really want her to join this group.’”

The current lineup has been together for about five years, and has played several festivals and prominent stages. Butler has described their sound as a “female Béla Fleck and the Flecktones,” and said she channels her Southern “blackneck” side in the group’s work.

Her other side, which is channeled into her recently released solo album, is more sensual and soulful. She said the new album is grounded in a very percussive guitar sound.

“I bake the cake with the guitar and the frosting is banjo,” she said. “I’m seeing another side of myself.”

She said she used the low end of her voice and minor chords to craft a “very sensual, relaxing album.”

“If Norah Jones was a Southern black chick, that’s what it would sound like,” she said.

Steve Graham is a freelance writer and former newspaper editor who takes his two boys biking, hiking and brewery-hopping in northern Colorado.

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WHAT’S BREWING AT NOVEL STRAND

By Erica Buehler

F

or those familiar with Denver’s quaint Baker neighborhood, you know the appeal is two-fold: the excitement and bustle of Broadway and the hidden gems in the quiet corners just blocks away. One of those gems on West 1st Avenue and Cherokee Street is neighborhood brewery Novel Strand Brewing, which also shares its space with Queen City Collective Coffee.

The brewery is still in its early years, officially established in 2016 through a collaboration of some seriously talented minds (and really good friends). Ayana Coker, Tamir Danon and Chantel Columna are the impressive co-founders, whose love for craft beer eventually blossomed into tackling a longtime dream of opening their own brewery.

All three attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. “We would hang out at this craft beer bar (The Ruck) in the city we went to school in,” Danon says. “I was homebrewing and was working on my biochemistry degree, so it kind of goes hand-in-hand.

The joke we made is that I have a microbiology background, so it’s cool for beer — and I know what yeast like.”

Danon and Columna, who were dating at the time, decided to move from Queens to Colorado in order to focus on launching the brewery. While Danon brings the scientific brewing aspect to the company, Columna brings artistry, engineering, and a knack for knowing what people like. “Chantel liked the idea of a space you can design that welcomes people,” Danon says. “An artistic design and an intimate space. When you’re part of a team, the goal should be to find roles where people will shine … together. If we play to each other’s strengths, then it’s a strong team.”

“I think that we complement each other as to how we work,” Columna says, noting that Danon also brings creativity to the table not just in his brewing of fun beer, but determining labels, working with designers, “and what the product itself entails.” Columna also manages the operational side of things, which she refers to as her playground; one that definitely posed a challenge once the COVID-19 pandemic erupted. “We’ve had to pivot our business and make sure that we always have a concrete plan, even if that plan changes every week.”

Novel Strand’s Sydney Simpson, left, and co-founder Tamir Danon work on one of the latest brews.

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Photos: Rebecca Todd

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TWEAKING THE RECIPE

Like most other businesses severely impacted by the pandemic, the name of the game for Novel was getting creative. The brewery’s space has a built-in, to-go window that was utilized from the beginning of the nationwide shutdown, and it incorporated delivery service as well. But even after some restrictions were lifted, the Novel team chose to keep their doors closed.

Danon, in conjunction with Scott Byington of Queen City Collective Coffee, decided to keep indoor dining shut down, citing the safety of their customers and staff as their number one priority. “We’re not putting business before health for anyone.

We’re not going to do anything that feels unsafe.”

So, in addition to maintaining the to-go and delivery service, Novel Strand opened up outdoor seating, started mass-canning their beers, and also began building private greenhouses for sitting and sipping.

“(We’re) doing the best we can to make it fun and safe for everybody, within our limits,” Columna says.

THE BOND OF THE BREW

The team certainly sympathizes with those who simply couldn’t survive COVID-19.

“It’s sad,” Columna says, “but at the same time, people have become as creative as possible to make things work. We’re in constant contact with our closest friends in the industry and we’re all suffering, but even just being able to talk to somebody about it who is struggling the same way — even if you don’t have a solution — has been really helpful and speaks to our sense of community.”

Back before a pandemic was a concern, the Novel team chose their space based on its embedded location within the Baker neighborhood. “Having a smaller community but still being known by others outside the neighborhood was very key to us,” Columna

Welcome to the Chateaux du Novel Strand Outdoor Experiencia and Winter Village in Denver.

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says. “Being the neighborhood brewery is part of why we chose this location.”

The dedication to customer experience radiates through Novel Strand’s events and the constant spinning of its creative wheels. The brewery has kept customers engaged this season via its Chateaux du Novel Strand Outdoor Experiencia and Winter Village. “We bought a handful of greenhouses and set it up as a small village so people can come in single parties and have a good time,” Columna says. “We hope that if people are willing to come out and adventure through the winterland, these (greenhouses) will provide a comfortable space to enjoy a pint and support the local food trucks we continue to have. Everyone is looking for a sense of normalcy, and we’re doing our best.”

Erica Buehler is a freelance writer living in Littleton with her two dogs and plenty of coffee.

US 36 & McCaslin

Superior, CO 80027

303 499 6600

Buy Local. Support Local March-April 2021

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Prime Pairings Buffalo Chili - Colorado Style Everyone loves chili. Simple, hearty and crowd-pleasing are among the descriptions commonly used to describe one of the West’s go-to foods. Good chili brings people together, so put your best foot forward and spice up a timeless classic with Colorado ingredients.

Colorado-raised buffalo provides a lean protein source for the health conscious. Dried chili flakes from Flatiron Spice Co. provide a depth of flavor that run-of-the-mill chili flakes simply can’t. Lastly, Elevation Beer Co.’s Oil Man Cinnamon Stout rounds out the robust and complex flavors found within the chili.

The recipe was adapted from Ayesha Curry’s, The Seasoned Life.

Enjoy it with family and friends and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal a few weeks later!

Pair with Elevation Beer Co. Oil Man Oil Man is a perfect pairing for both inside and alongside the chili. Thick and viscous with flavors of cinnamon, coffee and chocolate, this beer is incredibly complex.

The Imperial Stout aged in bourbon barrels carries a distinct whiskey flavor that translates nicely into a layered chili recipe.

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Ingredients 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tsp smoked paprika

2 tsp coarse salt

1/4 teaspoon dried chili flakes (Flatiron Spice Co Dark and Smoky Mix)

1 tsp pepper 2 lbs locally sourced buffalo meat 4 carrots 1 red onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced

1 bottle beer, Elevation Brewing - Oil Man Cinnamon Imperial Stout 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes 1 14-oz can fire roasted tomatoes

1 orange bell pepper, diced

1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 yellow bell pepper, diced

1 15-oz can pinto beans, drained and rinsed

1 jalapeno pepper, diced, seeded, deveined

1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 serrano peppers, diced, seeded, deveined

1/2 cup maple syrup

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 6-oz can tomato paste 1/4 cup chili powder 1 tbsp dried oregano

Topping options: grated cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla chips, chives, cilantro, red onion

Directions In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high and add buffalo meat. Brown the buffalo meat while seasoning with salt and pepper.

Once browned, remove the meat with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the carrots and onion to the pot and begin to sauté for several minutes. Then add peppers, garlic, salt, pepper and more olive oil.

After vegetable mixture has softened (5-10 minutes), add tomato paste, chili powder, oregano, paprika and chili flakes. Stir the mixture periodically until it darkens in color. Add the beef back into the pot.

Pour the beer into the pot and deglaze the pan, using a wooden spoon to scrape any residue from the bottom.

Add the crushed tomatoes, fire roasted tomatoes, beans and maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer. Cook for at least an hour and up to four. © New Africa / Adobe Stock

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21 IN

‘21 SPREAD THE WEALTH BY HITTING STATE PARKS STATEWIDE The Thirst Colorado Team State Forest State Park. Photo: Terri Ross

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FISHERS PEAK The newest state park is also going to be one of the larger playgrounds in southern Colorado. Parts of the 19,200-acre park will be opened in phases, yet, only about 250 acres are currently available for use. Hunting, hiking and wildlife photography will be popular at the former ranch that offers great views of the 9,633-foot Fishers Peak.

JOHN MARTIN RESERVOIR Adventure-seekers forget about the Eastern Plains because the hills are rounded and soft. But the Colorado Birding Trail is no fly-by-night stop for those interested in observing nearly 400 species on and near the water.

Throw in some boating, swimming and fishing and you have a relaxing and warm destination for much of the year.

Although hunting is not allowed in the park, nearby John Martin State Wildlife Area is available for hunters who camp at the reservoir.

CASTLEWOOD CANYON Check out 56-million-year-old rock layers while traipsing around trails in the canyon carved out by Cherry Creek.

Rock climbers and hikers (no bikes allowed) have a good shot at seeing coyotes, foxes, a variety of reptiles and dozens of bird species, including turkey vultures, golden eagles, bluebirds and canyon wrens. Also, check out the old Castlewood Dam that burst in 1933 and flooded parts of Denver.

CHATFIELD Ride a horse, drop a fishing line, rent a boat, fly a kite or bring the pooch to the 69-acres offleash dog park for a morning of fun and frivolity. Just south of Denver, the park is one the most popular and yet it’s still possible to enjoy an afternoon picnic in the cool Colorado air. If you go for a dip in the reservoir and something nibbles on your toe, it might be one of the record-size channel catfish swimming along.

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NAVAJO The reservoir offers 150 miles of shoreline in Colorado and New Mexico. Boating rules must be observed and fishing licenses must be purchased for both states, so be prepared. A full-service marina is available and there are three cabins for those who aren’t interested in tent camping or hookups that are also set up for RVs. Wander over to the Sambrito Wetlands to watch wildlife and birds.

Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife

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parks a perfect destination from spring to fall. More than 16 miles of trails will help you find the perfect spot to cast a line and land kokanee salmon, rainbow and brown trout.

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ELDORADO CANYON The longtime escape for Boulderites features world-class rock-climbing opportunities for a variety of skill levels. A river runs through it (South Boulder Creek) and there are biking and hiking trails that connect with Boulder’s system.

STAUNTON Two large mountain ranches (mostly donated by two generous families) were pieced together to form one of the state’s newer parks. Depending on the time of year, look for waterfalls, iced cliffs, forest and grassland. Rock climbing and hiking through backcountry trails keep most visitors busy.

RIDGWAY The San Juan Mountains attract visitors from far and wide but few take the time to stop at the park and reservoir that is tucked in the Uncompahgre River Valley. Three heated yurts are among the lodging options. RV sites and tent-only areas make one of the state’s most beautiful

STATE FOREST At 71,000 acres, this high-country escape is both family friendly and friendly to the young and the restless. Trails surround the area at the base of Cameron Pass. About 600 moose roam the park and its common to see them in the marshlands throughout the area. Horse rides, hikes, bikes and off-road fun make up the summer months. In winter, snowmobiling is popular and one can backcountry ski and snowshoe for miles without seeing other folks.

Photo courtesy Colorado Parks and Wildlife

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ARKANSAS HEADWATERS One of the top whitewater rafting stretches in the world also features great paddle boarding, canoeing and nearby off-roading trails. And anglers shouldn’t forget the 100 miles of Gold Medal waters between Leadville and Lake Pueblo.

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RIFLE FALLS Waterfalls hit with a crash and clouds of mist waft about soaking lush vegetation. That might not sound like arid Colorado but the park attracts tourists with phones at the ready as well as movie crews and photographers from across the country. Mix in limestone caves, hiking trails and a fish hatchery and you have one of the more unusual, yet fascinating scenes in the state.

MUELLER With plenty of easy and moderate hiking trails, all family members can participate in the adventure at Mueller, which opened in 1991 near the town of Divide. Visit in spring for a fabulous wildflower show or go in winter for wide-trail snowshoeing into the backcountry. Hunters are welcome in an 800-acre spread during the seasons.

STEAMBOAT LAKE The “four seasons” park awaits every type of outdoor enthusiast. Large trout await fishing junkies, while mountain bikers can fill their lungs with thin air at this 8,100-foot-elevation stunner.

Trails connect with the Routt National Forest and snow piling up by the feet is common every winter. Its popularity means campgrounds and picnic areas disappear quickly so plan ahead.

ROXBOROUGH Explore some of the Old West in the form of ranches and homesteads from yesteryear.

Sandstone juts into the air and hiking trails for all skill sets will deliver up

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close and personal looks at it all. Watch for bighorn sheep and deer galore.

Education and nature programs for all ages are paramount at Roxborough.

Pets are not allowed, and bikes are only allowed on the roads. Stroll and enjoy!

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VEGA Riding high at 8,000-feet elevation on the edge of the Grand Mesa, Vega (meadow in Spanish) offers four campgrounds, five cabins and beautiful picnic areas. Spring and summer wildflowers are plentiful and the 900-acres lake is great for fishing, sailing, jet skiing and most other water sports. Hikers and horseback riders will find numerous trails to explore the area.

LAKE PUEBLO Two marinas serve 4,600 water acres that help keep southeast Colorado cool each summer.

For anglers, a 35-inch blue catfish was caught at the reservoir that is fed by the Arkansas River. The area features big game wildlife and an endless number of birds. With nearly 400 campsites, it is one of the state’s largest playgrounds and accommodates every outdoor enthusiast.

JACKSON LAKE Boating and OHVs rule the day at Jackson, which is popular throughout the year for campers who have 260 sites to choose from. The eastern plains are popular for migrating birds so bring along the binoculars and cameras.

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BARR LAKE With a recorded 371 species of birds, the opportunities for birders never end. Not into the winged creatures, how about practicing archery? A range is available to those who pay the park entrance fee. Much of the park can be seen by horseback or bicycle.

BOYD LAKE Dubbed a “1,747-acre water-sports haven” by park officials, the boating opportunities are endless.

With 148 paved, pull through camp sites, it’s easy to set up for a long weekend of fun in the sun. If a little exercise is in order, take a bike ride along the lake trail that connects with the city of Loveland trails.

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GOLDEN GATE A favorite of Denver metro dwellers, Golden Gate features several small ponds, 12,000 acres of scenic land and 35 miles of trails.

Camping is available year round and families can even cut a Christmas tree with a permit.

PAONIA The Gunnison National Forest provides an excellent backdrop for the 334-acre lake along the North Fork of the Gunnison River. Water levels can drive activities: think boating and water skiing when levels rise in June. Only open in the summer months, no hiking trails are available.

Picnic sites and campgrounds are available but are more primitive than most state parks.

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Editor’s Note: Prior to attending any events this spring, be sure to check websites and social media to make sure it’s game-on.

MARCH MONTH OF PHOTOGRAPHY MARCH 1-31

Denver Month of Photography Denver (MOP) is a biennial festival that celebrates the art of photography through public exhibitions and events across the region. Join enthusiasts and professionals alike in admiring photography across Denver. denvermop.org

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA SEPTET WITH WYNTON MARSALIS MARCH 5 Virtual event The evening will feature the premiere of The Democracy! Suite, a new Wynton Marsalis composition written during the COVID-19 pandemic as a response to the political, social, and economic struggles facing our nation and the beauty that could emerge from a collective effort to create a better future. newmancenterpresents.com

BEATS ANGIQUE MARCH 19

Denver Get back into your music groove at the Mission Ballroom. Headliner Beats Antique with Desert Dwellers, Bluetech, and Edamame will provide the evening’s entertainment. The band plans to use shadows, light, Indonesian shadow puppetry, custom-created lanterns, dance, storytelling, crowd participation and more to make this an unforgettable visual spectacle. missionballroom.com

TEDXMILEHIGH: UNCHARTED MARCH 20

Virtual Event TEDx ventures into unmapped ideas in science, art, technology and community. Join TEDxMileHigh as it celebrates the human spark of discovery and impulse to forge ahead into the UNCHARTED. tedxmilehigh.com/uncharted

APRIL BOULDER SYMPHONY: RING IN THE SPRING APRIL 3

Boulder The Boulder Symphony is actively performing Symphonic Music’s most monumental repertoire. Featuring Aaron Copland’s ballet Appalachian Spring, the Symphony will ring in spring with two shows in one day! bouldersymphony.org

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Photo courtesy Polar Plunge

POLAR PLUNGE MARCH 7 DENVER

Head into the great outdoors and venture over to Wash Park to plunge, run, or do both in support of Special Olympics Colorado athletes. Due to COVID-19, you can also elect to participate

DENVER ZOO FREE DAYS APRIL 8

Denver Denver Zoo is thankful for all of the love Colorado has shown this year. So, on select Share the Love Days, the zoo is giving that love back to the community with 125 free tickets for every 15-minute admission window. denverzoo.org/free-days

virtually this year. Funds raised from the Polar Plunge help serve 15,000 incredible Special Olympics Colorado athletes, who are breaking down barriers to build communities of inclusion. specialolympicsco.org/event/denverplunge

COLORADO ROCKIES HOME OPENER APRIL 1 DENVER

The Colorado Rockies take on the Los Angeles Dodgers to kick off the season. Watch Trevor Story and the rest of the Rockies in one of Denver’s biggest sports days of the year. mlb.com/rockies

SALVADOR DALÍ: GARDENS OF THE MIND APRIL 10 - AUGUST 22

Denver Fresh this spring, check out the Salvador Dali exhibit at Denver Botanic Gardens. Mixing flora with the artist’s signature motifs, two series of prints, FlorDalí and Surrealist Flowers, underscore Dalí’s ongoing infatuation with his native landscape of Catalonia. botanicgardens.org/exhibits

MAY FURRY SCURRY MAY 1

Virtual Event Join the Denver Dumb Friends League for the 27th annual Furry Scurry from wherever you are. Instead of coming together at Wash Park as a community supporting the League, in the Virtual Furry Scurry you get to choose the time and location. Register and walk any time through May 31. support.ddfl.org

Photo: Joe Ross

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© Pellinni / Adobe Stock

LET A RIVER PROVIDE BACKGROUND MUSIC FOR YOUR DINING PLEASURE

By Steve Graham

RAPIDS LODGE

Sure, it sounds like a beachfront dive in San Diego, but the Boathouse Cantina is actually a Salida restaurant that serves American and Baja Mexican food, and focuses on organic ingredients and local meat, produce and craft beer. And it’s adjacent to the Arkansas River, one of the best rafting spots in the nation. Surely, you’ll want to grab a boat and some gear and head toward the nearest downstream eddy.

Much of Grand Lake is built up around the namesake lake, but the town also boasts a historic lodge and restaurant right on the Tonahutu River. The lodge has been in operation since 1915, and now offers an extensive dinner menu and wine list year-round, as well as a lighter sandwichfocused lunch menu from May through early October. It’s a bit difficult to find but well worth getting off the beaten path to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Salida

W

ith spring approaching and COVID-19 still hanging around, it’s the ideal season for outdoor dining with a rushing river providing ambiance.

Colorado has plenty of great patios for eating outside, but a scant few, however, are located along the waters that initiate high in our Rocky Mountains. Here are five rare riverfront gems across Colorado for enjoying a craft beverage and a meal al fresco.

As the temperature creeps up and the wildflowers begin to emerge, take advantage of these chances to chill before or after a mountain adventure.

MAMA ROSE’S Estes Park

Estes Park has a charming riverwalk along the Big Thompson, with a playground, a couple of coffee shops and a Dairy Queen. The best bet for a full meal on the river is Mama Rose’s, which serves homemade pasta and sauces, and classic Italian favorites at reasonable prices for this tourist town. Mama also offers craft beer and an extensive wine list. During quieter times of the year, diners might see an elk or deer wandering the hillside across from the outdoor patio.

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BOATHOUSE CANTINA

March-April 2021

MISHAWAKA AMPHITHEATRE Bellvue

The Poudre River is the only designated “wild and scenic” river in Colorado, but it can be tricky to find a place to dine and enjoy that scenery. Thankfully, one of the only options is also among the best riverfront restaurants in Colorado. It also has an established and regular outdoor music venue that is second only to Red Rocks for stunning views. The Mishawaka has pretty good pub fare on its full menu, as well as a grab-and-go outdoor kitchen slinging burgers and dogs all summer. Note that parking is very limited, especially for concerts and nice weekend afternoons.

Grand Lake

RIVERS RESTAURANT Glenwood Springs

Finally, if you want to go upscale and upriver, check out the appropriately named Rivers, a fine-dining establishment right on the Roaring Fork in Glenwood Springs. The menu includes classic steaks alongside Colorado lamb, duck and trout, as well as creative takes on local game, such as the elk and wild mushroom potstickers.

Steve Graham is a freelance writer and former newspaper editor who takes his two boys biking, hiking and brewery-hopping in northern Colorado.

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DENVER’S MOM-AND-POP BOOKSTORES KEEP TURNING THE PAGES

By Erica Buehler

A

mong the many wonderful features that Denver has to offer, it is also a city full of independent and locally loved bookstores. Some focus particularly on the books they sell, while others add bits and pieces of unique experiences to suit the desires of creative minds. Libations, food and pinball are among the bookstore options for those who have extra time. The small businesses continue to serve communities much like pubs, and they’ve experienced a resurgence in the past decade, despite the onslaught of e-book vendors.

The following are a few of our favorites.

Photos: Neill Pieper © Scanrail / Adobe Stock

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BOOKBAR

4280 Tennyson St., Denver 303.284.0194 bookbardenver.com Up on bustling Tennyson Street, with its boutique shops and specialty restaurants, is the fan-favorite BookBar. An indie bookstore that affectionately calls itself “a bookshop for wine lovers and a wine bar for book shoppers,” BookBar adds a little touch to the typical book shopping experience, featuring author readings and live music, patio seating, and online orders and shipping. Plus, 10 percent of all book sales are donated to the non-profit organization BookGive, a charitable organization for people in need.

PRINTED PAGE

1416 S. Broadway, Denver 303.777.7653 printedpagebookshop.com For another unusual experience, be sure to check out the Victorian house on South Broadway’s Antique Row, which houses the Printed Page, a hidden treasure of rare and used books. The shop comprises 10 different booksellers (former and current librarians, lawyers, teachers and writers,

among others), a dedication to its customers, and a comfortable place to “talk books.”

Printed Page is also involved in a number of community give-back initiatives, including donating books and supporting local institutions.

rare books. It offers a creative concept of Mystery Book Bundles, where curious readers can pay their tier of choice and receive a bundle of books chosen specifically for them. Curbside pickup and shipping are both offered as well.

PARK HILL COMMUNITY BOOKSTORE

BROADWAY BOOK MALL

4620 E. 23rd Ave., Denver 303.355.8508 parkhillbookstore.org The Park Hill Community Bookstore, which features new and used books, calendars, journals and cards, was formed in 1971, making it the oldest, continuously operated nonprofit bookstore in the Denver Metro area.

A membership to the store yields impressive discounts and benefits, and the store is run almost entirely by volunteers.

CAPITOL HILL BOOKS

300 E. Colfax Ave., Denver 303.837.0700 capitolhillbooks.com Now having operated into its 39th year, Capitol Hill Books is known for serving the book-loving community by way of used and

200 S. Broadway, Denver 303.744.2665 broadwaybookmall.com Arising from the ashes of the former Denver Book Mall and just two doors down from Fahrenheit Books is the Broadway Book Mall.

The store’s website enthusiastically describes the location as having “great books, great people, great service and great parking.” Not a bad combination, if you ask us.

MUTINY INFORMATION CAFE 2 S. Broadway, Denver 303.778.7579 mutinyinfocafe.com This eclectic bookstore has something to fit every need: a wide range of new and used literature? Check. Coffee bar? Check. Comic book shop, records and pinball machines?

Check, check, check. The building itself

Capitol Hill Books on East Colfax offers used and rare books to the neighborhood.

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has been standing since 1904 and has been everything from a grocery store to a dance studio and beyond — plus several bookstores. Aside from snacks, Pablo’s Coffee, kombucha, tea, and a selection of breakfast cereals, Mutiny also hosts live events like comedy shows, magic shows and author readings. It has an analog photo booth and recently launched a podcast studio.

WEST SIDE BOOKS

3434 W. 32nd Ave., Denver 303.480.0220 westsidebooks.com A beloved indie bookstore in the historic Highlands neighborhood, West Side Books has offered “new, used and unusual” books since 1997. In addition to a wide array of titles both in-store (tall towers of choices) and online, West Side also offers audiobooks and digital books through

popular platforms. Can’t decide? The staff compiles recommendation lists to make online shopping easier, including staff picks, specially curated lists, store bestsellers and award-winning books.

THE BOOKIES BOOKSTORE

4315 E. Mississippi Ave., Denver 303.759.1117 thebookies.com The Bookies is another locally loved bookstore featuring an abundance of titles across various genres, with tons of books and resources for children, schools and teachers. Check the website and social media for local author readings and other events. The Glendale shop is perfect for finding unusual titles and is also a partner with the annual Jewish Arts, Authors, Movies and Music Festival.

TRIDENT BOOKSELLERS AND CAFE

940 Pearl St., Boulder 303.443.3133 tridentcafe.com A favorite among Pearl Street perusers is Trident Booksellers and Cafe, a combination of small press and rare books, coffee, tea and mystery book bags. The store and cafe, which “celebrates community, compassion, and independent thinking,” also offers beer and wine in the evenings, empanadas Thursday-Saturday nights, an online tea store with a selection of over 50 different teas, and a back patio on which you can sit and read. Also, consider buying a back-patio brick to support the cafe.

Erica Buehler is a freelance writer living in Littleton with her two dogs and plenty of coffee.

West Side Books in the Highlands neighborhood offers new, used and audio books with specially curated lists.

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EXCITEMENT ALL IN ONE EXTRAORDINARY PLACE

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FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE

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s outdoor enthusiasts begin to flood the trails this spring, some folks will want to try cannabis products as a way to relax after pushing dormant muscles. Because THC and CBD are still relatively new to the scene, many outdoor enthusiasts will be searching out products for the first time. Most products are easy to carry, fast-acting and natural.

As is the case with libations, people need to understand the potency found in their choices. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary psychoactive portion of cannabis that gets people high.

CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most active ingredient that is more commonly used for relaxation without getting high. We’ve compiled a few ideas from Colorado companies to help you enjoy the healing powers of CBD in particular.

TINCTURE

MARY’S MEDICINALS – THE REMEDY The concentrated tincture features CBD that will enhance any wellness routine using organic hemp extract with naturally occurring cannabidiol and THC, almond oil and hormone-balancing myrrh. The blend helps with physical and mental relief. The Remedy includes 250 servings in a half-ounce bottle, and each drop contains a 2 mg dose of CBD.

TOPICAL CREAM

ESCAPE ARTISTS – RECOVERY Escape Artists Pro Sport Recovery Cream is aimed at muscles that have done the heavy lifting during extremely physical activity.

Perfect for physical therapists, athletic coaches and trainers, the ingredients include camphor and menthol that offer heating and cooling sensations to relieve muscle pain. It’s non-greasy and absorbs quickly.

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BEVERAGE

CERIA BREWING CO. – INDIEWAVE IPA The Indiewave IPA is brewed with 10 mg of THC, 10 mg of CBD and packs only 99 calories. The West Coast IPA has no alcohol, yet features cascade, citra and Amarillo hops to round out a smooth, tasty brew.

VAPE

SPHEREX – LEMON HAZE 1:1 CBD Perfect for those on the go, the Spherex vape solution is portable, small and easy to use. Appealing to most palates, the all-natural terpene-blends are designed for a consistent and flavorful experience. The CBD line promotes recovery for those who may be achy from a day on the slopes or need a release from a long day at the office.

EDIBLE

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WELCOME PATIO SEASON WITH COLORADO'S DEDICATED GLUTEN-FREE BREWERY

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801 BRICKYARD CIRCLE, GOLDEN, CO

March-April 2021

ThirstColorado.com 43

COLORADO BREWERY, DIS ● – Serves Food ● – Food Truck ● – Live Music

BREWERIES ARVADA Denver Beer Co

Unnamed Beer Co

Colorado Mountain Brewery ●

LODO

Ratio Beerworks ● ●

Uhl’s Brewing Co

Dueces Wild Brewery ●

Denver Chophouse ●

River North Brewery

Upslope Brewing Co ● ●

FH Beerworks ●

Great Divide Brewing Co ● ●

Very Nice Brewing ●

Fossil Craft Beer Co ●

Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery ●

Vision Quest Brewing Co

Funky Town Brewing

Rock Bottom Denver ●

West Flanders Brewing Co ● ●

Goat Patch Brewing Co ●

Sandlot Brewery

Wild Provisions Beer Project

JAKs Brewing Co ●

Wynkoop Brewing Co ●

Local Relic ●

Elevated Seltzer ● ●

BRIGHTON/FREDERICK/ERIE

LUKI Brewery

Big Choice Brewing

New Image Brewing ●

Flood Stage Ale Works ●

Odyssey Beerwerks ● ●

Mirror Image Brewing Co

Resolute Brewing Tap & Cellar ●

Mountain Cowboy Brewing Co

Someplace Else Brewery

Something Brewery

AURORA

BROOMFIELD/WESTMINSTER

Phantom Canyon ● ●

Bent Barley Brewing Co

4 Noses Brewing Co ●

Red Leg Brewing ●

BJ’s ●

BJ’s ●

Red Swing Brewhouse

Cheluna Brewing Co

Frolic Brewing Co ●

Rock Bottom Colorado Springs ●

Dry Dock Brewing Co North Dock ●

Gordon Biersch ●

Dry Dock Brewing Co South Dock ●

Kokopelli Beer Co ● ●

Launch Pad Brewery

Rails End Beer Co ● ●

Peak to Peak Tap & Brew ●

Westminster Brewing Co

Two22 Brew ●

Wonderland Brewing Co ● ●

Ursula Brewing Co

CAÑON CITY AREA

BAILEY

Florence Brewing

DENVER

Mad Jack’s Mountain Brewery ● ● ●

World’s End Brewing Co

BOULDER AREA

CASTLE ROCK AREA

12Degree Brewing ●

105 West Brewing Co ●

Asher Brewing Co

Burly Brewing ● ●

Avery Brewing ●

The Elizabeth Brewing Co

Beyond the Mountain Brewing Co

Great Divide Brewing & Roadhouse

BJ’s ●

Iron Mule Brewery

Busey Brews

Rockyard Brewing Co ●

Cellar West Artisan Ales ●

Wild Blue Yonder Brewing Co ●

Crystal Springs Brewing Co

Lost Friend Brewing ● Manitou Brewing Co ● Metric Brewing ● Nano 108 ● Paradox Beer Co ● Peaks N Pines Brewing Co ●

Rocky Mountain Brewery ●

Burns Family Artisan Ales Cervecería Colorado ● ● Denver Beer Co ● ● Little Machine Beer ● Raices Brewing Co Seedstock Brewery ● ● Strange Craft Beer Co ● ● Tivoli Brewing ● Zuni St. Brewing Co ●

Comrade Brewing ● comradebrewing.com 720.748.0700 7677 E Iliff Ave Denver

Copper Kettle Brewing Co ●

SOUTHWEST DENVER Chain Reaction Brewing Co ● Crazy Mountain Brewing Co ● ● Renegade Brewing Co

WHEAT RIDGE/EDGEWATER/ LAKEWOOD 6 and 40 Brewery Barquentine Brewing Co Brewery Rickoli ● Colorado Plus Brew Pub ● ●

Storybook Brewing ●

Blue Tile Brewing

Great Frontier Brewing Co

Trinity Brewing ●

J. Moe’s Brew Pub ●

Green Mountain Beer Co

Whistle Pig Brewing Co ● ●

NORTHWEST DENVER

Joyride Brewing Co ●

Amalgam Brewing

Landlocked Ales

Bruz Beers ●

Old 121 Brewhouse

BAKER/SOUTH BROADWAY

Call to Arms Brewing Co ●

Westfax Brewing Co

Baere Brewing Co

De Steeg Brewing

DURANGO AREA

Banded Oak Brewing Co

Diebolt Brewing Co ● ●

Animas Brewing Co ●

Black Project Spontaneous & Wild Ales

The Empourium Brewing Co

Bottom Shelf Brewery ●

Factotum Brewhouse

Carver Brewing Co ●

Dos Luces

FlyteCo Brewing

Dolores River Brewery ● ●

Grandma’s House

Goldspot Brewing Co ● ●

Durango Beer and Ice Co

Lowdown Brewery + Kitchen ● Novel Strand Brewing Co

Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe + Brewery ●

J. Fargo’s Family Dining & Micro Brewery ●

Platt Park Brewing Co ●

Hogshead Brewery ●

Main Street Brewery & Restaurant ●

Oasis Brewing Co ● ●

Mancos Brewing Co ●

Prost Brewing Co ●

Ska Brewing Co ● ●

TRVE Brewing Co

Finkel & Garf Brewing Co

3 Freaks Brewery ●

Front Range Brewing Co ● ●

Blue Spruce Brewing Co ● ●

CAPITOL HILL/E COLFAX/ PARK HILL

Gravity Brewing ● ●

C.B. & Potts Highlands Ranch ●

Gunbarrel Brewing Co

Grist Brewing Co ●

Industrial Revolution Brewing Co

Halfpenny Brewing Co ● ●

Kettle and Spoke Brewery

Lone Tree Brewing Co

Knotted Root Brewing Co

Resolute Brewing Co

Liquid Mechanics Brewing Co ● ●

Rock Bottom Centennial ●

Mossdeep Brewing Co

Rock Bottom Highlands Ranch ●

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery ●

Spice Trade Brewing Co

Alpine Dog Brewing Co Bruz Off Fax Cerebral Brewing ● ● Counter Culture Brewery & Grille ● Fiction Beer Co ● Lady Justice Brewing Long Table Brewhouse ● Pints Pub ● Station 26 Brewing Co ● Vine Street Pub & Brewery ●

RINO

10 Barrel Brewing Co ● ● 10barrel.com 720.573.8992 2620 Walnut St Denver

14er Brewing Altitude Brewing & Supply

Steamworks Brewing Co ● WildEdge Brewing Collective

EAGLE COUNTY 7 Hermits Brewing Co ● Bonfire Brewing ● Gore Range Brewery ● Vail Brewing Co ● ●

Bierstadt Lagerhaus ●

ENGLEWOOD AREA

Black Shirt Brewing Co ● ●

Brewability Lab ● ●

Blue Moon Brewing Co ● ●

Peak View Brewing Co

Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project

Oskar Blues Brewery ● ●

Atrevida Beer Co ●

The Post Brewing Co ● ●

Battle Mountain Brewing ●

DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Redgarden Restaurant & Brewery ●

BierWerks Brewery ● ●

Sanitas Brewing Co ● ●

Black Forest Brewing Co ●

Tom’s Urban Diner and Tivoli Brewing ●

Ska Street Brewstillery

Brass Brewing Co ●

FIVE POINTS

New Belgium - The Woods at the Source

Southern Sun ●

Bristol Brewing ●

Spangalang Brewery

Odell Brewing Co

Stein Brewing Co

Cerberus Brewing Co ●

Woods Boss Brewing

FAIRPLAY

Our Mutual Friend

Twisted Pine Brewing ● ●

Cogstone Brewing Co ● ●

South Park Brewing Co ●

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®

Smiling Toad Brewery ●

CENTENNIAL/LONE TREE/ HIGHLANDS RANCH

COLORADO SPRINGS AREA

Briar Common Brewery + Eatery ●

Bull and Bush Brewery ● ●

NORTHEAST DENVER

Echo Brewing Co ●

Odd 13 Brewing Inc ● ●

MILE HI/AURARIA

SOUTHEAST DENVER

Epic Brewing Co ● Great Divide Brewing Co ● ● Mockery Brewing ●

ESTES PARK Avant Garde Aleworks Estes Park Brewery ● Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co Rock Cut Brewing Co

TILLERY & CIDERY LINEUP FORT COLLINS AREA

Mountain Toad Brewing ●

LONGMONT

Reservoir Brewing Co

Amalgam Brewing

Anheuser-Busch

New Terrain Brewing ● ●

300 Suns Brewing ●

Shamrock Brewing ●

Beer by Design

BJ’s ●

Ohm Brewing

Bootstrap Brewing ● ●

Walter Brewery & Taproom

Black Sheep Brewery

Black Bottle Brewery ●

Over Yonder Brewing

Collision Brewing Co ●

GRAND JUNCTION AREA

Grossen Bart Brewery ● ●

SALIDA/BUENA VISTA/ CRESTONE/LEADVILLE

Left Hand Brewing Co ●

Crestone Brewing Co ●

Dive Bar Brewing Co

Oskar Blues Brewing ●

Eddyline Restaurant and Brewing Co ●

Donovan Brewing Co

Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing ● Crooked Stave Brewing DC Oakes Brewhouse & Eatery ● Envy Brewing Equinox Brewing ● Funkwerks Gilded Goat Brewing Co Horse & Dragon Brewing Co Intersect Brewing Jessup Farm Barrel House ● The Marmot Fort Collins

Dented Face Brewing Co Edgewater Brewery ● Kannah Creek Brewing Co ● Mad Russian Brewing Co Monumental Beer Works Palisade Brewing Co ● ● Ramblebine Brewing Co ● The Rockslide Restaurant and Brewery ●

Outworld Brewing Primitive Beer Pumphouse Brewery ● Shoes and Brews Wibby Brewing ● ●

LOVELAND/BERTHOUD 5030 Local ●

Centennial Beer Co Ceria Brewing

Durango Brewing Co

Elevation Beer Co ● Moonlight Pizza and Brewpub ● Soulcraft Brewing

Gemini Beer Co Idylwilde Brewing The Larimer Beer Co

Tres Litros Beer Co

New Planet Beer

Two Mile Brewing Co ●

Open Door Brewing Co

SOUTHWEST COLORADO

Rustica

Avalanche Brewing Co ●

Sleeping Giant Brewing Social Order Brewing

GREELEY AREA

Mash Lab Brewing

Berthoud Brewing Co

Brix Taphouse and Brewery ● ●

Maxline Brewing

Big Beaver Brewing Co ●

Colorado Boy Brewery - Montrose, Ouray, Ridgeway ●

Broken Plow Brewery

Golden Block Brewery ●

McClellan’s Brewing Co ● ●

Big Thompson Brewery

Crabtree Brewing ● ●

Horsefly Brewing Co ● ●

New Belgium Brewing Co ● ●

City Star Brewing ●

G5 Brew Pub ●

Crow Hop Brewing

Ouray Brewery ●

Odell Brewing Co ● ●

Green Earth Brewing

Drätz Brewing Co

Ourayle House Brewery

Old Colorado Brewing Co

High Hops Brewery ● ●

Red Mountain Brewing ●

Pitchers Brewery ●

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse

Lonesome Buck Brewing Co ●

Smuggler’s Brewpub ●

Prost Brewing Co

Loveland Aleworks

Mighty River Brewing Co

Stoik Beer Co

Purpose Brewing

Rock Bottom ●

Sheaf & Kettle Brewery

Rock Coast Brewery

Telluride Brewing Co

DENVER/BOULDER

Rally King Brewing

WeldWerks Brewing Co

Verboten Brewing Co

Two Rascals Brewing Co

52Eighty Distilling - Littleton

Ramskeller Brewery ●

Wiley Roots Brewing Co ●

MONUMENT

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS AREA

Pikes Peak Brewing Co ● ●

Butcherknife Brewing Co

Red Truck Beer ● Snowbank Brewing Soul Squared Brewing Co ● Sparge Brewing Timnath Beerwerks

GUNNISON/CRESTED BUTTE The Eldo Brewpub & Venue ● ● High Alpine Brewing Co ● Irwin Brewing Co

NORTHEAST COLORADO Parts & Labor Brewing Co Tumbleweed Brewing & Wine Co

Zwei Brewing Co ● ●

IDAHO SPRINGS/EVERGREEN/ CENTRAL CITY/GEORGETOWN

NORTHGLENN/THORNTON

FRUITA

Cabin Creek Brewing ●

Mother Tucker Brewery ● ●

Copper Club Brewing Co ●

Dostal Alley Saloon & Gambling Emporium ●

Satire Brewing Co ● ●

El Rancho Brewing Co ●

PAGOSA SPRINGS/ DEL NORTE/ALAMOSA

Suds Brothers Brewery ● ●

GLENWOOD SPRINGS/ CARBONDALE/ASPEN

Evergreen Taphouse ●

Aspen Brewing Co ●

Guanella Pass Brewing Co

Capitol Creek Brewery ●

Lariat Lodge Brewing Co ● ●

Carbondale Beer Works ●

Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub ●

Casey Brewing and Blending

Westbound & Down Brewing Co ●

Glenwood Canyon Brew Pub ● Roaring Fork Beer Co ●

GOLDEN Barrels and Bottles Brewery ● Cannonball Creek Brewing Co ●

KREMMLING Grand Adventure Brewing Co

LAKE CITY Lake City Brewing

Coda Brewing

LITTLETON AREA

Coors Brewing Co

Blue Spruce Brewing Co

Golden City Brewery ●

Breckenridge Brewery ●

Holidaily Brewing Co Holidailybrewing.com 303.278.BEER 801 Brickyard Cir., Golden

Coal Mine Ave. Brewing Co

The Break Room Brewing Co The Colorado Farm Brewery Pagosa Brewing Co ● Riff Raff Brewing ● ● San Luis Valley Brewing ●

Uhl’s Brewing Co

DISTILLERIES

Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill ●

Anders’ Vodka - Parker Archetype Distillery - Denver Arta Tequila - Englewood

Mountain Tap Brewery ●

Art of the Spirits Colorado Whiskey - Denver

Storm Peak Brewing Co

Ballmer Peak Distillery - Lakewood

Yampa Valley Brewing Co

Bear Creek Distillery - Denver The Block Distilling Co - Denver

SUMMIT COUNTY Angry James Brewing Co

Boulder Spirits by Vapor Distillery - Boulder

The Baker’s Brewery ●

Broken Arrow Spirits - Centennial

Breckenridge Brewery & Pub ●

Denver Distillery - Denver

Broken Compass Brewing

Deviant Spirits - Boulder

Dillon Dam Brewery ● ●

Deviation Distilling - Denver

HighSide Brewing ● ●

Downslope Distilling - Englewood

Outer Range Brewing Co ●

The Family Jones Spirit House Denver ●

Pug Ryan’s Brewery ●

Golden Moon Distillery - Golden

WALSENBURG

Three Barrel Brewing Co ●

Crafty Canary Brewery

PAONIA

WINTER PARK AREA

Ironton Distillery - Denver

Chrysalis Barrel Aged Beer

Big Trout Brewing Co

Laws Whiskey House - Denver

Paonia United Brewing Co

Camber Brewing Co

Leopold Bros - Northeast Denver

Fraser River Beer Co

Local Distilling - Golden

Hideaway Park Brewery

Mad Rabbit Distillery - Westminster

Never Summer Brewing Co

Mile High Spirits - Lodo

The Peak Bistro & Brewery ●

Mythology Distillery - Denver ●

PARKER Barnett and Son Brewing Co ● ● Downhill Brewing Co ● Los Dos Potrillos Mexican Restaurant y Cerveceria ●

Lariat Lodge Brewing

Welcome Home Brewery

Locavore Beer Works

Syndicate Brewing Co

Square Peg Brewerks

Jackass Hill Brewery ● Living the Dream Brewing Co

Swole Beer

DISTRIBUTION ONLY 1623 Brewing

PUEBLO AREA

AC Golden Brewing Co

Brues Alehouse Brewing Co ● ●

Acidulous Brewing Co

Hogback Distillery - Wheat Ridge J & L Distilling Co - Boulder

On Point Distillery - Lafayette Rising Sun Distillery - Denver Rocker Spirits - Littleton Santa Fe Spirits - Littleton Spirit Hound Distillers - Lyons

March-April 2021

ThirstColorado.com 45

CIDERIES

State 38 Distilling - Golden

WESTERN SLOPE

Summit Cellars - Palisade

Golden City Winery - Golden

Stranahan’s - South Denver

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co - Vail

Talon Winery - Palisade

Golden Valley Winery - Denver

Two Rivers Winery - Grand Junction

The Infinite Monkey Theorem Denver

Artisan Craft Cellars - Westminster

InVINtions, A Creative Winery Greenwood Village

Big B’s Juices and Hard Cider Hotchkiss

Kingman Estates Winery - Denver

Boco Cider - Boulder

Ladrón Cellars - Englewood

Boxing Brothers Cider - Colorado Springs

Strongwater Spirits & Botanicals - Denver

39 North Spirits - Eagle

Talnua Distillery - Arvada

808 Distillery - Eagle

Tighe Brothers Distillery - Denver Tingala - Denver Weaver’s Spirits - Parker

Breckenridge Distillery ● breckenridgedistillery.com 970.547.9759 1925 Airport Rd Breckenridge

Whistling Hare DistilleryWestminster ●

Coal Creek Distillery - Crested Butte

NORTHERN COLORADO

Durango Craft Spirits - Durango

Big Fat Pastor - Loveland Bouck Brothers Whiskey - Idaho Springs Coyote Gold Margaritas - Fort Collins Coppermuse Distillery - Fort Collins

Fraser Valley Distilling fraservalleydistilling.com 970.363.7792 410 Zerex St Fraser

Two Swedes Glögg - Grand Junction Varaison Vineyards and Winery Palisade Whitewater Hill Vineyards - Grand Junction

CENTRAL WEST AREA 5680' Vineyard - Paonia Alfred Eames Cellars at Puesta del Sol Vineyards - Paonia

Leap of Faith Winery - Wheat Ridge Point Blank Winery - Centennial Purgatory Cellars Winery - Parker Silver Vines Winery - Arvada

Azura Cellars - Paonia

Spero Winery - Denver

Black Bridge Winery - Paonia

Vino Passarelli - Lakewood

Endless Endeavor Winery - Paonia

Water 2 Wine - Centennial

Evening Grace Vineyards - Hotchkiss

Waters Edge Winery - Centennial

Apple Valley Cider Co

Branch Out Cider - Fort Collins C Squared Ciders - Penrose ● Clear Fork Cider - Denver Climb Hard Cider Co - Loveland Colorado Cider Co - Denver Colorado +49 Cidery & Pub- Golden Fenceline Cider - Mancos Golden City Winery - Golden

Dry Land Distillers - Longmont

Highlands Distillery - Grand Junction

Jack Rabbit Hill - Hotchkiss

Wild Women Winery - Denver

Elevation 5003 Distillery - Fort Collins

Honey House Distillery - Durango

Leroux Creek Vineyards - Hotchkiss

The Wine Barrel - Parker

Idlewild Spirits Distillery- Winter Park

Mesa Winds Farm and Winery Hotchkiss

NORTHERN FRONT RANGE

Qutori Wines - Paonia

Augustina’s Winery - Nederland

Stone Cottage Cellars - Paonia

Bad Bitch Cellars - Eaton

Peach Street Distillers - Palisade

DELTA & MONTROSE COUNTIES

Blendings at the Preserve - Fort Collins Blue Mountain Vineyards - Berthoud

St. Vrain Cidery - Longmont

BookCliff Vineyards - Boulder

Stem Ciders - Denver ● ●

Decadent Saint - Boulder

Stem Ciders Acreage- Lafayette ● ●

River Garden Winery - Fort Lupton

Summit Hard Cider - Fort Collins

Settembre Cellars - Boulder

Talbott’s Cider Co - Palisade

Snowy Peaks Winery - Estes Park

Teal Cider - Dolores

Stonebridge Farm Winery - Longmont

Waldschänke Ciders - Denver

SOUTH FRONT RANGE

Sweet Heart Winery - Loveland

Wild Cider - Firestone

Byers Cellars - Cripple Creek

Ten Bears Winery - Laporte

Zanamiel - Centennial

D’Vine Wine - Manitou Springs

Turquoise Mesa Winery - Broomfield

Evergood Elixirs - Palmer Lake

Viewpoint Wines - Boulder

Legatum Cellars - Canon City

Vinnie Fera - Boulder

Elkins Distilling Co - Estes Park

KJ Wood Distillers - Ouray

Feisty Spirits - Fort Collins

Marble Distilling Co - Carbondale ●

The Heart Distillery - Windsor

Montanya Distillers - Crested Butte

Longtucky Spirits - Longmont Mobb Mountain Distillers - Fort Collins

Peak Spirits - Hotchkiss

Chill Switch Wines - Cedaredge

NOCO Distillery - Fort Collins

Stoneyard Distillery - Dotsero

Old Elk Distillery - Fort Collins

Storm King Distilling - Montrose

Cottonwood Cellars/The Olathe Winery - Olathe

Old Town Distilling - Fort Collins

Telluride Distilling Co - Telluride

Still Cellars - Longmont

Woody Creek Distillers - Basalt

Spring 44 Distilling - Loveland Steamboat Whiskey Co - Steamboat Spring ● Syntax Spirits - Greeley

WINERIES Avant Vineyards - Palisade

SOUTHERN COLORADO 3 Hundred Days of Shine - Monument 1350 Distilling - Colo. Springs

Carlson Vineyards - Palisade Colorado Cellars Winery - Palisade Colterris Winery - Palisade

Axe and the Oak - Colo. Springs Black Bear Distillery - Green Mountain Falls Blackhat Distillery - Colo. Springs Cockpit Craft Distillery - Colo.

Springs Colorado Gold Distillery - Colorado Springs Deerhammer Distilling Co - Buena Vista

Mountain View Winery - Olathe Stoney Mesa Winery - Cedaredge Winery at Cedars Farm - Cedaredge

GRAND JUNCTION AREA

Tower 56 Distilling - Greeley

Garrett Estates Cellars - Olathe

DeBeque Canyon Winery - Palisade Desert Sun Vineyards - Grand Junction Garfield Estates Vineyard & Winery - Palisade Grande River Vineyards - Palisade Graystone Winery - Clifton Gubbini Winery - Palisade

Mountain Spirit Winery, Ltd. - Salida Sette Dolori - Black Forest

CENTRAL MOUNTAIN

Monkshood Cellars - Minturn

Dragon Meadery - Aurora

Vines at Vail Winery - Wolcott

Golden City Winery - Golden

Winter Park Winery - Fraser

Honnibrook Meadery Castle Rock ● ●

Vino Salida Wine Cellars - Poncha Springs

Steamboat Winery - Steamboat Springs

Mesa Park Vineyards - Palisade

Mystic Mountain Distillery - Larkspur

Peachfork Orchards and Vineyards - Palisade

Bigsby’s Folly - Denver

Plum Creek Cellars - Palisade

Black Arts Cellars - Littleton

FOUR CORNERS

Ptarmigan Vineyards - Grand Junction

Blanchard Family Wines - Denver

Flying T Wine - Cortez

Ram’s Point Winery - Grand Junction

Bonacquisti Wine Company - Denver

Four Leaves Winery - Durango

Red Fox Cellars - Palisade

Carboy Winery - Littleton

Fox Fire Farms - Ignacio

Restoration Vineyards - Palisade

Colorado Sake Co. - Denver

Guy Drew Vineyards - Cortez

Shiras Winery - Grand Junction

Creekside Cellars - Evergreen

Pleasant View Vineyards - Pleasant View

St. Kathryn Cellars Winery & Gift Shop - Palisade

Deep Roots Winery & Bistro - Denver

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March-April 2021

MEADERIES Annapurna Mead - Colorado Springs

Vino Colorado Winery - Colorado Springs

Meridiem Spirits - Elizabeth

144 W 1st Salida

Snow Capped Cider - Cedaredge

The Winery at Pikes Peak - Cascade

Lee Spirits - Colo. Springs

Woods High Mountain Distillery woodsdistillery.com 719.207.4315

Scrumpy’s Hard Cider - Fort Collins

Colorado Honey Wine - Distribution Only

Allis Ranch Winery - Sedalia

Spirits of the Rockies - Pueblo

Old Mine Cidery & Brewpub - Erie

Continental Divide Winery Breckenridge

Maison la Belle Vie Winery & Amy’s Courtyard - Palisade

Sangre Distilleries - Westcliffe

Locust Cider & Brewing Co- Boulder

Black Forest Meadery - Colorado Springs

CENTRAL FRONT RANGE

Sand Creek Distillery - Hugo

The Ice Cave Cider House Monument

Buckel Family Wine - Crested Butte

Songbird Cellars - Beulah The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey Canon City

Hermosa Vineyards - Palisade

Distillery 291 - Colo. Springs

Haykin Family Cider - Aurora

Aspen Peak Cellars - Bailey Balistreri Vineyards - Denver

Gaijin 24886 Sake - Denver

Hunters Moon Meadery - Severance

PLAINS

Meadery of the Rockies - Palisade

Claremont Inn & Winery - Stratton

Mechalore Meadworks - Loveland

Mummy Hill Winery - Holyoke

Medovina - Niwot

Reds Wine Boutique - Sterling

Miracle Stag Meadery - Loveland

Sutcliffe Vineyards - Cortez Yellow Car Country Wines - Cortez

Queen Bee Brews - Denver Waddle Buzz Meadery - Golden Redstone Meadery - Boulder

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