While Denver has long been celebrated as a haven for beer lovers, with its thriving craft brewery scene, there’s another beverage quietly making waves in North Denver—Wine. 

North Denver boasts a growing number of tasting rooms, tucked away amid the bustling urban landscape. 

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious novice, summer presents the perfect opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery through North Denver’s wine-tasting options. 

For those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed wine experience, look no further than Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club, a new addition to the area, nestled in the heart of LoHi on Tejon Street. 

Co-owned by Julie Dinsdale, Golden Hour fills a gap in the market for a younger demographic. With this insight, Dinsdale strives to provide an inviting atmosphere where friends can come together and enjoy a glass of wine. 

At the helm for Golden Hour’s wine selection is in-house sommelier Cameron Hogan, whose extensive global travel enriches his expertise. Hogan, who honed his skills at Barcelona Wine Bar and II Posto, curates a wine collection that constantly evolves to embrace seasonal flavors and trends. 

Golden Hour also offers a variety of nonalcoholic beverages, accommodating those who prefer to consume less alcohol. 

“We have people on our team who don’t drink, including some of our bartenders. So it was important to have nonalcoholic options,” said Itzel Catarino, manager of Golden Hour. 

Tuesdays through Fridays, from 2-5 p.m., Golden Hour hosts a happy hour where guests can indulge in a selection of wines and beers priced at $9, with a handcrafted cocktail of the month at $12. For a snack, the Petit Charcuterie is priced at $10. 

The next stop for exploring wines in North Denver is Bonacquisti Wine Company, near Pecos and West 46th Avenue. 

Founded in 2006, Bonacquisti Wine Company is a family owned, urban winery that barrel-ages and bottles local Colorado wine, as well as regional and international wines on-site in a funky, industrial warehouse space. 

Paul Bonacquisti, owner and winemaker, crafted Bonacquisti to be deeply rooted in the community, where education and a passion for local music converge to create a unique experience.

But it’s not just Paul who fuels the success of Bonacquisti Wine Company. 

Dr. Judi Diaz Bonacquisti, an education advocate with over two decades of experience in higher education, has actively involved the winery in collaborations with local nonprofits, such as the Denver Scholarship Foundation, Colorado Educational Services and Development Association (CESDA) and the Latin American Education Foundation. 

Among the standout offerings are Vinny No Neck and Bella Risa, two beloved wines in honor of the Bonacquisti children. These wines have garnered acclaim both locally and nationally, with accolades ranging from Double Gold awards to high ratings in prestigious wine competitions. 

Visitors can indulge in Bonacquisti’s rich offerings at their tasting room, open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours are offered free of charge; flights of Paul’s expertly crafted wines are available for $25. 

This summer, the winey continues its live music offering, with Buckner Funken Jazz coming up on July 19, the Colorado Blues Show with Delta Sonics, Jack Hadley and Erica Brown on Aug. 24 and DeLeon with Smooth Groove on Sept. 13. 

Introductory wine classes, held on select Saturdays, are another way to experience Bonacquisti Wine Company. A monthly wine and cheese class, in collaboration with the Truffle Cheese Shop, is also on the docket this summer. 

“We’re proud to have been making wine in Sunnyside for 18 years, and we’re excited to share our passion,” Paul Bonacquisiti said. 

The final stop, Mondo Vino at West 32nd and Lowell, offers a neighborly stand-up tasting alongside an opportunity to purchase wine to enjoy at home. 

Read more…