Wine Events at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, Cañon City - Colorado Springs

Wine Events at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, Cañon City

Colorado Springseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours

Fitness Level

Accessible to all fitness levels as activities involve little physical exertion

Overview

Discover The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey in Cañon City, Colorado, where hands-on wine workshops and seasonal tastings unfold alongside striking mountain views. This distinctive spot pairs outdoor spirit with craft winemaking for a genuinely local experience.

Details

Set against the dramatic foothills of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey in Cañon City offers a distinct blend of outdoor charm and refined wine experiences. Located in this historic region known for its rugged canyons and high desert landscapes, the winery invites visitors to engage with wine culture through hands-on workshops, exclusive tastings, and seasonal events that showcase the local terroir.

Cañon City itself holds a special place in Colorado's outdoor scene, sitting near famous natural features such as the Arkansas River and Royal Gorge. The winery’s setting is unique: part vineyard, part cultural site, adjacent to the ruins of Holy Cross Abbey—a 20th-century monastery with Swiss architectural influences. This backdrop provides a relaxed yet inspiring environment where visitors can sip expertly crafted wines while soaking in sweeping views of vineyards and mountainous ridges.

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey is more than just a tasting room; it’s a hub for immersive educational experiences. Their Grapevine Pruning Workshops offer practical skills for enthusiasts eager to understand viticulture fundamentals, while VIP Wine Tastings and Winemaker’s Dinners pair curated pours with local culinary fare. Seasonal highlights like the Spring Wine Extravaganza introduce new vintages alongside live music on the expansive patio, a popular feature praised for its casual, friendly atmosphere.

Visitors also appreciate the dog-friendly policy and attentive service, both of which contribute to a welcoming vibe that draws locals and travelers alike. Whether pausing on a road trip through southern Colorado or making a day of it in Cañon City, this winery stands out by combining Colorado’s outdoor allure with the rhythm of vine-growing and winemaking. It’s a worthy stop for anyone interested in authentic regional wine experiences framed by the striking landscape of the Rockies’ eastern edge.

Adventure Tips

Book Workshops Early

Grapevine pruning classes are popular and limited; reserve your spot in advance to ensure participation.

Dog-Friendly Patio

Leashed dogs are welcome in outdoor seating areas; bring water and treats to keep your pup comfortable.

Sun Protection Recommended

The patio offers little shade during midday; sunglasses and sunscreen help keep you comfortable.

Combine Trips Nearby

Plan time to visit the adjacent Holy Cross Abbey ruins for a glimpse into local history after your tasting.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Walking paths around the historic Holy Cross Abbey ruins
  • Nearby Arkansas River trails offering dramatic canyon views

Wildlife

  • Mule deer
  • Red-tailed hawks

History

Holy Cross Abbey was built in the early 20th century by Trappist monks, and its ruins now frame the winery’s scenic setting.

Conservation

The winery practices sustainable viticulture with a focus on preserving soil health and minimizing water use in this semi-arid environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late afternoon
Early morning

Best Viewpoints

  • Patio overlooking the vineyard rows
  • Ruins of Holy Cross Abbey
  • Surrounding foothills from vineyard edge

What to Photograph

Vineyard landscapes
Historic stone ruins
Sunlit wine glasses and tasting setups

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin during midday tastings on the patio.

spring specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Suitable for vineyard walks and moving between tasting areas.

Light jacket or sweater

Essential

Evenings and mornings can be cool near the foothills.

fall specific

Water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated during outdoor events is important.

summer specific

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