Canyon Wind Cellars

Norm Christianson, a trained geologist, founded Canyon Winds in the easternmost and warmest part of the Grand Valley. The vines, mostly Bordeaux varieties, are rooted in alluvial soils, reminiscent of Bordeaux, filled with cobblestones and sand. With 14 different wines, Canyon Wind offers something for everyone. Here are three recommended wines from Canyon Wind:

2008 Canyon Wind Tempranillo, Grand Valley AVA

A brilliant deep purple yields to a dark rose rim. Pronounced fruit and floral aromas fill the glass. Red cherry, strawberries, violet and dried cranberries entice you to take a sip. Good acidity is matched with dried strawberries, plum, leather and a minerality in the mouth. Well balanced but with a short/medium finish. Get this one now because a freeze killed the vines to the ground this past winter and they have been replaced by Malbec. 13.4% abv. Sample (retail $20). Good (tasted 7/19/10)

2007 Canyon Wind Petit Verdot, Grand Valley AVA

The glass is filled with an opaque black/purple wine. The nose is very subtle with blueberry, violet and graphite detectable. Robust yet velvety tannins are balanced with medium-plus acidity. Blackcurrant, cocoa and charred wood highlight this full-bodied beauty. This unique varietal is concentrated, very complex and offers a long finish. 13.1% abv. Sample (retail $25). Very Good (tasted 7/19/10)

2006 Canyon Wind Cabernet Franc, Grand Valley AVA

Clear red juice. Attractive aromas of wild strawberry and hints of spices. Fruity flavors of mulberry, strawberry, black currant complement the tobacco and herbaceousness. A well-balanced wine with good acidity and complementary fruit and spice leave a long finish. 14.3% abv. Sample (retail $18). Very Good (tasted 7/19/10)