When most people think of Colorado, they envision towering mountains, craft beer, and outdoor adventures. But tucked into the foothills and winding canyons around Golden, Colorado, lies a growing and dynamic wine scene that’s just as captivating. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual sipper, Golden and its surrounding areas offer a delightful escape into the world of locally produced wines—each with its own unique character and charm.
In this post, we’ll uncork the best local wineries and tasting rooms in and near Golden, highlighting the experiences, ambiance, and varietals that make each one special. So pour a glass, sit back, and explore the delicious side of life in the Colorado foothills.
1. Bonacquisti Wine Company – A Taste of Urban Winemaking
📍 Denver, CO – About 20 minutes from Golden
Though not in Golden proper, Bonacquisti Wine Company is a standout urban winery located just a short drive east in Denver’s Sunnyside neighborhood. Founded by Paul Bonacquisti, this boutique winery brings a slice of Old World winemaking to the Front Range. Grapes are sourced from Colorado’s Western Slope as well as California and Washington, but all wines are crafted right in the city.
The tasting room offers a relaxed vibe with live music, food trucks, and monthly wine club events. Must-try selections include their Barbera, a robust Colorado red, and the Dry Riesling, which offers a crisp counterpoint to warmer days.
2. The Golden Moon Speakeasy & Distillery – Unique Sips with a Historical Twist
📍 Golden, CO
While technically more of a distillery than a winery, Golden Moon deserves mention for wine lovers looking to explore beyond the grape. This charming speakeasy features a rotating wine list alongside handcrafted absinthe, gin, and other spirits—all made onsite.
Tucked into a historic building downtown, it offers an ambiance that pairs perfectly with a romantic evening or laid-back gathering. Their curated selection of boutique wines includes European and domestic varietals, ideal for pairing with cheese boards or small bites.
3. Carboy Winery – Where Colorado Terroir Shines
📍 Littleton, CO – About 25 minutes from Golden
Carboy Winery has become a regional favorite for its stylish tasting rooms, innovative winemaking, and focus on elevating Colorado-grown grapes. The Littleton location is closest to Golden and offers a full restaurant, outdoor patio, and a sophisticated wine tasting experience that’s perfect for a date night or weekend outing.
Carboy works closely with vineyards on the Western Slope and Palisade, producing high-elevation wines that highlight the unique terroir of Colorado. Notable selections include their Grand Valley Cabernet Franc and the Dry Rosé, both of which showcase freshness and complexity.
Their wine slushies and frosé are also must-tries during warmer months—fun, approachable, and deliciously refreshing.
4. Silver Vines Winery – A Golden Original
📍 Golden, CO
Located right on Washington Avenue in the heart of downtown Golden, Silver Vines Winery is a local treasure that brings the vineyard experience to the base of the Rockies. Owned and operated by a family passionate about wine and community, this cozy spot crafts wines onsite from both Colorado and California grapes.
The tasting room offers a laid-back, inviting atmosphere with frequent live music, trivia nights, and special events. Popular varietals include the Syrah, Merlot, and their award-winning White Blend, which balances citrusy brightness with a smooth finish.
Whether you're a first-time taster or a wine club member, Silver Vines offers that true “local favorite” experience that visitors and residents alike treasure.
5. Creekside Cellars – European Flair in the Mountains
📍 Evergreen, CO – About 30 minutes from Golden
Nestled along Bear Creek in charming Evergreen, Creekside Cellars offers one of the most picturesque winery settings near Golden. It's the perfect place for a scenic escape with a sun-drenched patio overlooking the water, rustic indoor seating, and an Italian-inspired menu.
This boutique winery produces small-batch wines with grapes from both Colorado and their estate vineyard in Palisade. From robust reds like the Cabernet Sauvignon to the crisp Viognier, their wines reflect a deep respect for traditional winemaking with a local twist.
Bonus: Their house-made antipasto platters and artisan cheeses make this one of the best food-and-wine pairings in the area.
6. Balistreri Vineyards – Natural Wines, Bold Flavors
📍 Denver, CO – About 30 minutes from Golden
Family-owned and operated, Balistreri Vineyards is known for its natural, unfiltered, and additive-free wines. Located just north of downtown Denver, this winery combines urban accessibility with a commitment to old-world methods.
Balistreri offers tastings and tours in a spacious setting that feels more like a countryside estate than an inner-city winery. Their barrel-aged reds, such as the Syrah and Colorado-grown Petite Sirah, are rich, bold, and perfect for serious wine aficionados.
Their food menu is also a standout—think gourmet sandwiches, seasonal soups, and thoughtfully curated charcuterie boards. Balistreri is a perfect destination for a day trip or a special celebration.
7. Evergood Adventure Wines – Citrus-Based Surprises
📍 Palmer Lake, CO – About 1 hour south of Golden
For something completely different, Evergood Adventure Wines specializes in citrus-based wines made from lemons instead of grapes. Yes, lemons!
This unique take on winemaking results in bright, zesty drinks perfect for warm-weather sipping. While the physical winery is farther afield, their products are available in several tasting rooms and liquor stores around Golden. Keep an eye out for varieties like Sangria on the Rocks or Lemon Star, which blur the line between cocktail and wine in the best way possible.
Wine Events, Tours, and Tastings Near Golden
In addition to visiting tasting rooms, wine lovers will find a variety of local events and tours to enhance their experience:
- Golden Farmers Market often features local wineries and meaderies offering samples and bottle sales.
- Annual Wine Walks and Holiday Sip & Shops in downtown Golden create opportunities to enjoy wine while shopping and strolling.
- Private wine and food pairing experiences are offered by some of the area’s top wineries, perfect for groups or special occasions.
Why Wine Lovers Are Moving to Golden
Golden offers more than just outdoor adventure—it’s a community filled with culture, culinary delights, and, yes, excellent wine. Whether you’re spending the afternoon at a local tasting room or heading to the hills for a vineyard experience, the wine scene here is growing, vibrant, and diverse.
Thinking of planting roots where your weekends can include mountain hikes, creekside sipping, and small-town charm?
The Fox Group is your trusted real estate partner in Golden and the surrounding foothills. With deep local expertise and a passion for helping clients find homes that match their lifestyle, we’re here to help you turn your wine-country dreams into reality.
Explore homes in Golden today at
foxgroupcolorado.com and discover why so many are calling this slice of Colorado home.
