History of Canyon Wind Cellars
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 to 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 was 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, led to the creation of Christianson Vineyards and what today is Canyon Wind Cellars.