Denver's Amazing Blanchard Family Wines
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“Wine is a tool to incite conversation, kindle friendships, and bring people together.
It is one of our philosophies and is rooted in our company story.” – James Blanchard
This comment from James Blanchard, who along with his brother Mark own the wonderful Blanchard Family Wines, is a fitting description of their philosophy about wine, relationships, and life. On this particular night, my wife and I met with James Blanchard and his girlfriend Shanna (referred to as “Baby Boss”). We had a wonderful time as we shared stories, the genesis of BFW, and the passion and values that drive this boutique winery in the middle of Denver.
1855 Blake Street, Suite 120
Blanchard Family Wines for Great Wine and Conversation
James added, “Sitting around a table and sharing a bottle of wine is a ritual that has different effect than any other beverage throughout history. We have attempted to create an environment to encourage this conversation and bonding as much as possible. Our space is bright and warm with a connection to the outside fresh air that makes people feel good and vibrant. Our music is upbeat but at a volume where conversation is the dominant sound, not the music.”
Blanchard Family Wines is new on the scene in Denver at the bustling Dairy Block on Blake Street. Their passion is to feature a limited selection of hand-crafted artisan wines from vineyards in the famed Sonoma Valley in California, where their California winery is located.
Although I don’t normally prefer white wines, I found their Los Carneros Sauvignon Blanc to be especially refreshing, light and crisp, with just the right measure of citrus fruitiness. I was also pleasantly surprised by the Russian River Valley Zinfandel. With flavors of cherries, strawberries, and cola it is a wonderful complement to the outstanding charcuterie. This Zin is spicier and bolder than your typical Zinfandel.
Convenient location in downtown Denver's Dairy Block
“Our customers repeatedly comment on the different look and feel of our space and how it’s so welcoming to downtown Denver. We are extremely proud of the interaction we create with our guests and the welcoming way we present wine to both novices and veterans alike.”
After James and Shanna left, we struck up a conversation with two young ladies who were sitting at the next table. We exchanged a few pleasantries, and found out they were both nursing students at a local college. Well, my wife happens to be the Director of Nursing for a college in Texas, so they immediately had a million things to talk about. We had a wonderful time – talking to the personable young ladies, sharing stories, drinking excellent wine, and snacking on a tasty chacuterie. I’m sure our pleasant evening had much to do with the homey, comfortable atmosphere and setting of Blanchards.
Making New Friends at Blanchard Family Wines
Judging by what my wife and I experienced that night, Denver is indeed lucky that the two Blanchard brothers decided to bring their wonderful wines to Dairy Block. Whether you are a local or a visitor from out of town, you’re sure to make a friend or two at this wonderful wine bar in downtown Denver.
Cheers to James, Shanna, Mark, and the entire Blanchard Wine Family.
Scott Kendall is the Founder, Editor, and frequent contributor to PlayStayEat. He is a former Navy Officer, teacher and tennis coach who is an avid traveler and writer. Scott has traveled extensively throughout the United States and overseas to Italy, France, England, Croatia, Slovenia, and others. In addition to his contributions to PlayStayEat, much of his published work can be seen at scottkendalltravels.com.