Magnificent Scenery and Grand Wine – Wineries in Moab, Utah

Vineyards near the red rock towers and spires of Arches National Park? Nestled near the cliffs and crags of Canyonlands? Moab is host to two wineries that draw tasters to experience the grapes thriving in the regions’ warm, dry climate. Wine growing in the area began to thrive following test plantings of grapes in the 1970s. The high elevations in most of the growing areas – over 4,000 feet – produces cool nights that help grapes grow, despite hot summer days. The history of wine in the region began around 1860, but wine making was virtually abandoned until these successful test plantings.

At Castle Creek Winery, located at the working ranch resort of Red Cliffs Adventure Lodge, the fine varietals include Merlot, Cabernet, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay grapes, and come with an incredible view. These limited edition wines come with a view of the Colorado River and views of the Fisher Towers, including King Fisher and Echo Tower, dramatic and stunning red rock formations that encourage contemplation along with savoring tastings of this locally grown wine.

Many of Castle Creek’s wines are award winners, with the Monument Red and Merlot taking gold medals in the 2015 Taster’s Guild International Competition, and the Chardonnay and Monument Red taking silver medals in the 2015 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. The winery produces between 8,000 and 10,000 cases of wine annually on site, with most crafted from a single vintage rather than designed by blending multiple grapes.

The winery is the largest in the state, with an ample tasting room that includes a deck overlooking the stellar view of monuments and river. Founded in 1989, the winery moved to its present grand-view location nine years later. A vineyard adjacent to the winery and tasting room produces Cabernet and Syrah grapes; other fruit is locally sourced throughout the region.

As to the wines themselves, they’re light and extremely flavorful. The Chardonnay features citrus notes with an edge of spice and earthy minerals. Its crisp and dry, with a flavor that wouldn’t be out of place in France’s Rhone Valley. Another flavorful white is the Uintah Blanc, comprised of floral scented Muscat grapes, with a dry and sweet palate. The winery’s Monument Red has a rich, dark flavor of fruits, spices, and herbs that’s full-bodied and pleasantly dry. The Merlot has a lighter taste and color than many Merlots, with a lightly floral and berry aroma.

At Spanish Valley Vineyards & Winery, just south of Moab, the setting is intimate. A family run farm and winery established in 1999; Spanish Valley produces wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Gewurztraminer, and Riesling. The winery produces around 250 cases annually.

Owned and operated by the Dezelsky Family, Spanish Valley Vineyards and Winery tasting highlights include the dry, tropical fruit flavors of the winery’s Chardonnay, and the Sweet Cherry Wine, a delightful desert in a glass, with a rich flavor and aroma of cherry pie. The Cabernet is redolent with the taste of lush berries, dry, and aromatic. And the vineyard is well known for its crisp, fruity Riesling, with the bite of tangy green apples a strong flavor note. Off the beaten path near the Moab airport, this small winery is a relaxed pleasure to explore, offering ample free tastings.

While Utah may not be the first location that comes to mind for fine wines, these two Moab-area wineries prove the region a strong contender, as well as providing amazing scenery to drink in along with the varietals.