A trained geologist and adventurous world traveler, Norman Christianson’s career lead him to search for gold in Chile and California, nickel in Australia, molybdenum in Colorado and diamonds in South Africa. In the late 1980′s however, he found the mineral exploration world was becoming a more difficult place navigate. Unable to fathom the idea of retirement, Norman decided to pursue his other passion- wine.

In his travels throughout the world, Norman had the opportunity to explore frontier wine regions of the world. It was those experiences and a passion for his home state that were the inspiration to plant vineyards in Colorado. With the trained eye of a geologist, it did not take long to see that the Grand Valley had all of the key elements needed: cool nights, hot days, high altitude, and Mesa Verde Sandstone (the same formation the famous Left Bank of Bordeaux sits partially within).

A decision easily made by Norman and his wife, Ellen, lead to the creation of Christianson Vineyards and what today is Canyon Wind Cellars.

1991

-With the direction of viticulturist Rich Thomas, the first vines, to be known as the Riverside Vineyard, are planted.

1995

-Having established that the fruit is some of the finest in the Grand Valley, Canyon Wind Cellars is born. Under the guidance of renowned Napa winemaker, Bob Pepi, a state-of-the-art facility is created.

1996

-Canyon Wind Cellars has its first crush, producing a Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon of the finest quality.

2001

-Canyon Wind Cellars begins planting an second vineyard, to be known as the Cliffside Vineyard.  This vineyard expansion marks the first time since the winery’s founding that varietals have been added to the offerings. Over the next five years, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Tempranillo and Syrah would be produced and available for sale.

-Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, grown in the Riverside Vineyard, are also added to the lineup of wines.

-An underground barrel cellar and warehouse are constructed. Naturally temperature and humidity controlled, the cellar is the only one of its kind in Colorado.

2004

-Canyon Wind opens a second tasting room in the historic mining town of Georgetown, CO. Just 45 minutes west of Denver, this additional tasting room brings Colorado grown and produced wines closer to the population center of the state.

2007

-Norman’s son, Jay, returns to Colorado after many years on the East Coast to take over as the winemaker. Working closely with Bob Pepi and having spent almost all of his life at the winery, Jay continues producing Canyon Wind’s thirteen wines, while adding one of his own.

-IV, a Bordeaux blend, is produced. A true labor of love for Jay, IV becomes the first $100 bottle wine to be produced in Colorado.

2010

-Jay’s wife, Jennifer, joined both the Christianson and Canyon Wind Cellars families.  With a degree in Geology and an extensive background in non-profit leadership and fundraising, Jennifer was a natural fit to run the tasting rooms and lead the staff in providing an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

2011

-The second generation of Canyon Wind has arrived, as Jay and Jennifer take over the leadership of Canyon Wind Cellars.

-The Anemoi Project is born. More details to come!