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Balistreri Vineyards
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Wineries Food Wineries Hotels & Travel Tours Wineries, Tours [Edit]
1946 E 66th AveDenver, CO 80229
(303) 287-5156
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 12 pm - 5 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
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$$
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
22 reviews for Balistreri Vineyards
22 reviews in English
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Review from Amber D.
Castle Rock, CO
3/10/2012
Most of my friends and family know of my love affair with Balistrieri Winery, they are the only winery that i hold a wine club membership for and I have no plans of changing this anytime soon!
The new tasting room is a delight and gives way more room which is great because the amount of attention that it is receiving is astounding!
John, Birdie and Julie are always wonderful to see and interact with. John definitely has found his passion in life and is an accomplished winemaker both in style and innovation.
I am a big fan of all of their styles but definitely love their Primitivo, Cabernet Franc and American Syrah!
If you get a change to attend their annual Harvest Party, GO!!!!! -
Review from Dale Z.
Wowza! A friend of mine secured us a slot for the Grand Opening Celebration at Balistreri Vineyards. I am extremely happy that I was able to attend.
"Grand Opening--In celebration of our new Winery addition, we invite you to join us for a Grand Opening! We're finally in the new building and we invite you to help us celebrate!!! Join us for: Wine Tasting, Delicious Pairings, Tour the New Building, Enjoy the New Space!" First off, the new building is simply beautiful. It is a great space, and you can really tell that they planned ahead for hosting events (parties, weddings, etc.) here.
They were sampling so many different wines, that the description pamphlet was 4 pages long. And they did not skimp on the samples. Many of the wines I tried were in the $50 a bottle range. Although I sampled a Riesling I did not care for, most of the wines I had were outstanding. I had a lovely Cabernet Franc, a yummy Petite Sirah, and a bold Syrah. The reserve Zinfandel, in particular, was rich, fruity, velvety, and complex.
The food at this event was spectacular. The first thing that caught my eye and wound up on my plate was the cauliflower puree soup. It was so delicious and the seasonings were superb. When I came back to this station later to sample the roasted pork loin, I realized why the soup was so marvelous. Hosea Rosenberg (Season 5 winner, Top Chef) was doing the cooking. He was kind enough to let this big fan take a picture with him.
There was a fruit and brownie table to satisfy the most savage of sweet tooths. There was a cheese, salami, and cracker table with spicy meats, creamy Gorgonzola and tasty crunchy food vehicles. This also had a very nice grape tomato and artichoke salad. In the back, there was a table with artichoke spread and tomato-basil topping for crostini. I am not exaggerating when I say that they kept dumping bins of crostini on this table to refill it.
The culinary highlight, however, would have to be the Beef Burgundy Slider station. Beef Burgundy, on a soft bun, piled high with your choice of caramelized onions, roasted jalapenos, and your choice of horseradish or horseradish cream. These sliders were mind-blowing. This is the kind of item your might order three of in a nice restaurant for $12.99, and be so glad that you did. -
Review from Tyler S.
Updated - 1/27/2012 6 Check-ins Here
The new addition to the old tasting room is OPEN - and is just as awesome as I expected and MORE! The bar is about five times as large as the one previous, and can thus accommodate a much larger crowd. The ballroom is also quite impressive - as is the rest of the building. I am stoked to see how the new events and barrel tastings are going to compare to those that were in the old cellar and grounds.
The wines are also as consistent and fantastic as ever! For those of you who were a fan of the 2009 Tempranillo will be happy to know that there is a new vintage for 2010 - it doesn't have that rich, sweet and spicy notes that was in the 2009, but is still really tasty! The new line-up starting off the 2012 year is looking and tasting really great! I always love making the trip up to the northern part of the city to experience their latest releases. We were able to try most of the current lineup back in October at their annual Harvest Party, but a lot of the wine has changed since then and is tasting quite different than it was back then.
So - if you haven't checked out Balistreri yet and are into vino - this may be your new place to check out. If you have been to Balistreri, but not recently, you are definitely missing out on all of their great wine that is sure to sell out fast!Listed in: Yelp 100 Challenge, Places to Fancy Your Inner…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/23/2011 ROTD 11/27/2011
How I hate to write this review because I don't want my wonderful super secret place to get out even… Read more »
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Review from Lou T.
Littleton, CO
4/8/2012
Let me start by saying that I do not like wine, so I can not comment much on the quality of the wine as I am not a wine connoisseur. I am more of a beer snob, but I enjoyed a few of the wines that they served. I set up a private tasting here for my wife's birthday, and they did an amazing job with it. Everyone in attendance was extremely impressed. There was a great tour of the huge wine cellar, barrel storage, and bottling area. They also provided us an excellent selection of cheeses and crackers to sample with our wine. The wine tasting area was beautifully done. Overall Balistreri made for an incredible birthday party.
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Review from Lee S.
3/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love this place. We have been coming here for years. They put on the best wine tasting events in Colorado and their new building is quite spectacular. As you turn off of 66th, it is like you just traveled to another place and time. This last event we attended, the Grand Opening, was amazing. The food was worthy of any fine dining restaurant and, as always, the staff was wonderful. And wine. Did I mention wine? There were over 15 different wines to taste and always complimentary. I enjoy talking to the family and see a real, family run business. And the best tasting was in the cellar. The wine here is good, maybe a little pricey, but the atmosphere and personal attention make it a worthwhile destination.
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Review from Michael P.
Denver, CO
7/25/2011
Thanks Yelp!
Went to this Winery this past weekend - and yes, as everyone says, its the most awkward location ....that is until you pull into their driveway. Then it's like you are morphed into another dimension.
They had some sort of event the night before, but they still had a big tent outside and tables with wine. We walked up and we're greeted by a nice young woman who got us started - first with Chardonnays, then Zinfindels, Cabernet, Merlots, and then dessert wines (my favorite - see other posts about sugar and dessert - I'm an expert). (well, technically, the main owner, John took over halfway through)
They also had cheese and crackers to munch on while you work your way through all the wines - very nice touch.
We'll be back and considering I'm one that doesn't even care for red wine - it's a great place to go and spend some time! -
Review from Sadie R.
7/26/2011
I was just at an event here last week, they had the grounds all decked out for the Indulge event for CASA. They had each one of their ones out for tasting, but really they were pouring full glasses. The Cab was by far my fav, but the dessert zinfandel was also very good!
The pizza oven was on full blast kicking out great pizza, they had tables set up all over the garden with various olives and cheese variety.
It was a wonderful event; it appears if they are building an event center on the grounds now, great place for a wedding or party!!
My only complaint was the bugs, but heck it is an outside party! -
Review from Shelly L.
2/2/2011
Oops. I walked outta here with two bottles of wine and a membership to their wine club - and I'd never tasted a Balistreri wine until today.
It was one of my first "official" wine tastings and I was really happy with our choice. The staff was friendly, explained all of the different varietals, and was happy to answer any questions I had. They also offered a complimentary wine & cheese spread. Upon walking out, I declared wine tasting my new favorite hobby. Of course, that was after quite a few sips.
If you visit soon, be sure to check out their Cab Franc and Sangiovese - my personal favorites. -
Review from Gwen G.
Englewood, CO
9/18/2010
We went to the winery with another couple for them to check out the place for an upcoming event they were hoping to book. We arrived in time to join up with a tour and tasting. After the tour and before the tasting they got slammed with people wanting to start the tour behind us so we made our way to the patio and ordered one anti pasta plate for two plus another side appetizer of prosciutto and melon. It was more than enough for the four of us. I'm not sure how the other reviewers scored the free appetizers but the price of what we ordered was an excellent value for the selection of the breads, crackers, cheeses, olives, meats and fruit.
Our tour/taster guide was the owners wife and was very generous with stories of how they got started and are planning to grow. The wines are very good and all have fascinating stories attached to them. We had no problem selecting several to take home. The family is a very close-knit family operation right down to the grandsons who had to be summons from the main house several times from their video games to help with the groups of people showing up in the midst of a bridal shower event also now taking place under the main tent. Disorganization aside, it was a gorgeous, sunny - first fall chill in the air - kind of Colorado day spent sipping some wonderful wines, noshing, and enjoying good company. FYI, while it was easy to overlook a sudden influx of wine tasters showing up unexpectedly - our friends decided not to risk booking an event with such chaos. -
Review from Allison F.
Aurora, CO
9/7/2010
We found this winery on line and decided that as it was in the Denver area and had a special 'customer appreciation' event going on, that we would check it out.
Through being familiar with BC's wineries, you have to imagine my shock when we pulled up to an industrial area with small farms across the street. All I could think of were the smells and tastes that would permeate into the grapes and create the world's scariest beverage. Though, through learning that no grapes are grown on site, I was a little relieved.
The customer appreciation event included complimentary wine tastings and snacks out front under a large white tent. The atmosphere was beautiful and they had plenty of seats available for patrons. The lineups for wine were a few people long at times, but moved quickly. This hindered any major wine questions though and so there was little learned about the wines.
We started with a white and noticed that it was very cloudy and had a rich buttery taste. I wasn't a fan, as I like crisp or sweet whites, not creamy. The Riesling was listed as having flavours of pineapple and banana, which wasn't something I would expect from my wine. Their reds were much more fabulous and I would highly recommend checking out their varieties of Merlot. A full range of dessert wines are available and were all quite lovely. Prices ranged from $13-30, which matched the price range I'm used to here.
I'm not sure if I would recommend returning here but for a random event on a Saturday, it was very lovely. -
Review from Lacey M.
8/19/2008 2 Check-ins Here
My best friend was in town from Kansas for a visit, so I thought it would be fun to visit a winery so she could taste some Colorado Wine. It was a Sunday afternoon, so my favorite- Spero Winey - was not open. I did some research and saw that Balistreri was open 7 days a week from 12:00pm to 5:00pm for free tastings and tours. (Interesting fact is that the 2 people who run the different wineries are siblings...talk about sibling rivalry...)
I was a little annoyed that they were much farther away, which I suppose is not really their fault. The tasting room is tiny and was very crowded that day. We showed up right when he was starting with the whites and making his way down the line. He was very informative about the wine, but I like being able to wander around and drink at my own pace. Maybe he had to do it that way due to the small space and big crowd. Either way, I like the freedom that Spero offers during their tasting (and it's in a huge warehouse). They also put out a meat and cheese tray, which went great with the wine. You can purchase those there as well
Preferences aside, the wine is very good. I really liked the Sangiovese (though not quite as good as Spero), Syrah, and Zinfandel. My favorite by far was the "Little Feet Merlot". I usually am not a Merlot fan at all, but this one is amazing. And the grapes used to make it were stomped by children at the Festival Italiano in Belmar. (Hence, "Little Feet").
Overall, we had a great time and bought some yummy wine for dinner that night. My friend was surprised that Colorado has such good wine. (I just personally prefer the tasting experience and wine from Spero.)Listed in: Colorado Wine
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Review from Kim K.
Colorado Springs, CO
2/2/2011
Balistreri Vineyards always delivers. I haven't been to the tasting room in about 2 years and it was like I had just been there yesterday.
Of course it was such a popular place to be last weekend 1/29/11 but it didn't reduce any quality what so ever. I really appreciated the spread of cheese, salami, crackers, olives, jams, etc that were provided at no additional charge. This family owned winery is probably my favorite of all Colorado Wines.
I had the opportunity to pour with the gang at the Grand Junction Wine Festival about 3 years ago and had a blast!
I too am like Tyler and don't want to spread the word but feel it would be unfair not to share this awesome Winery!
Thanks to Julie, John, Birdie and the Gang for making this such a treat every time! -
Review from Clara F.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2010
Ok...yes, this winery is in a very industrial area of Denver and yes, the electrical plant that sits close by isn't the most beautiful of sceneries. But, my word, over 15 free tastes of all their different wines anytime you go? Yes, please!
I know what you're thinking, "Colorado wine isn't that great, so why would I want to taste it, even if it were for free." Well, normally, I would agree, but if you just steer clear of the few white wines they've got, a majority of their reds are pretty tasty.
But, do you wanna know what I really love about this place? It's the appetizer platter for two (which in reality feeds about 5). It is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! The plethora of cheeses and fruits and meats and olives and red peppers and eggplant...you just can't go wrong!
Do yourself a favor though, steer clear of the owner's wife if she wants to take you on a tour...she's a talker, that one. :) -
Review from Helen G.
Denver, CO
6/11/2011
Friendly and serve a variety of wines to taste. It was low key and relaxing under the tent on a beautiful summer day.
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Review from Chris M.
5/31/2011
I thought this place was pretty cool. The people who own/run the place were awesome and even though the place was packed with people tasting wine, they were very attentive to us and walked our party through trying all of their wines. We must have tasted 15 different wines. I did not think any of the wine was really all that good but they weren't all that bad either, most were on the heavy side. Seems like they were expanding and I look forward to checking out their new and improved tasting room next year. I really enjoyed being around people who have an obvious passion for wine.
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Review from Terry L.
1/1/2011
A Winery in an Industrial District 10 mins outside of Downtown Denver?
Yes!
Amazing wines- very friendly and knowledgeable staff.
I was taken through their entire line of wines (all but one are Colorado Grown!!) this past Thursday.
Yes- Denver was getting about 1/2 Ft of snow--but this was evident;y the BEST possible afternoon to visit Balisrteri Vineyards tasting room.
Hot spiced wine, a plentiful assortment of cheeses and crackers to compliment your palette.
Oh yeah-- the jellies!! They have boutique jellies too -- my favorite is a Thai Ginger Hot Pepper Jelly=amazing.
Ok- now back to the wine.
Although I prefer Southern Hemisphere wines in general- so I was very excited to sample Balistreri's Viognier and Petitie Sirah selections-- and was more than satisfied. I am happy to know and proud to boast that Colorado makes some amazing wines!
Other commendations go to their late harvest Merlot and Zinfandel for dessert.
Although I know the snowy weather and mid-afternoon Thursday made for an "off time" to visit- I will be back to buy more and support a great Colorado -local business! -
Review from Heath A.
Aurora, CO
9/9/2011
Grade A rip off artists! Purchased the Denver Daily deal for $99 and was notified the tours had been suspended until further notice. I kindly requested a refund via email and voicemail and haven't heard back at all. I have tried contacting them several times over the last several weeks. At this point keep the money and choke on it!
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Review from Heather S.
Las Vegas, NV
Updated - 3/6/2011
2nd trip... and it completely lives up to my previously set expectations.
1 Previous Review:
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3/4/2011
Exemplary customer service and excellent wine. Any wine lover will be glad they went.
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Review from Edward T.
Denver, CO
3/17/2010
Who knew there was wine making in Denver? This is a small winery in an industrial park in NE Denver. Driving up, you can't help but notice the lack of vineyards. The grapes are actually grown in western CO but wine is made in Denver. They have free daily tastings where you can taste 20+ wines. I was not a big fan of the whites but most of the reds were good. Extremely high alcohol content in most of the reds 15-17% You will not be able to drive home if you taste all of them. Get a large car with a DD and go with some friends. There is no pressure to buy the wines but after a few glasses, you just can't help but take home a few bottles. Wine prices are expensive but reasonable $20-30. As a bonus there is also free crackers, cheese and salami for you to snack on while drinking wine.
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Review from Kate G.
I joined the wine of the month club after one visit, this winery is so fun to visit and the owners are great to chat with! I learned more about wine here than I learned living in wine country in Oregon and Washington. They have over 20 wines you can taste daily for free and a cute outdoor area that I look forward to enjoying this summer. Their smokey syrah is one of the most unique wines I've ever had, and the unchardonnay is also a winner.
Listed in: Booze Tour of Colorado
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Review from Stephen S.
Denver, CO
5/19/2010
Bad wine. Bad tasting area. Hard to find. All of the wines tasted the same however, the prices were not bad. Also, the wine of the month is a good concept.
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Review from Walter C.
Hartford, CT
11/15/2009
Alot of the wine was from other Colorado vineyards, but Balistreri were very careful to give credit to the growers, both on the bottle and during the tasting. The owner ran the tasting - he was very open about the wine and his insight was appreciated. Being from CT - I didn't know what to expect, but the wine was good! The whites left alot to be desired (fair disclosure - I'm more of a red guy) but there were several merlots and cab sav's I thought were very good and worth the money. Also - the cherry desert wine was great - not too sweet, a bit tasty, tasted like a cherry pie. They had complimentary meat, cheese, and crackers which was a nice touch.
I ended up buying and shipping 4 bottles - they gave me the 6 bottle 10% discount because I had to ship! Prices were about $20-$25 per bottle, but I felt those I bough were worth it.
Overall - friendly atmosphere, the tasting and food were free, owner and his daughter were very friendly, and I would be happy to go back anytime. I will likely order more by phone once I go through what I bought.
