The Sutcliffe Story

A small metal sign on the ditch, deep in McElmo Canyon read: melons, tomatoes, peaches, ranch. The fruit was bought and an offer was made on the ranch. The next day the offer was accepted and low and behold Sutcliffe Vineyards was born.

John says, “The architect, Reggie Gibson, who designed my two houses, had camped on our newly acquired ranch, absorbed the nature of the place, and then toured Northern New Mexico to gain inspiration from buildings that addressed the prevailing essence of this canyon, Truchas, Chimayo, Taos, and of course, Santa Fe. Sitting in the drawing room, cradling a glass of good bourbon and nibbling at anchovy-smothered toast, he expounded an idea that would fundamentally change my life. In an accent honed in Anderson, South Carolina, he said, ‘I believe vines’d be beautiful around these houses…no, I really do.’

Before I could dispel this idea, my wife (at the time), Emily, responded in an accent also from South Carolina, “Yes, Reggie. What a great idea.” And so the saga began.

When John Sutcliffe was operating Tavern on the Green in New York City, he gave unwavering support to California Vineyards when they were still a tough sell in the city; France and Italy ruled. To Sutcliffe's delight and surprise, some of those vintners, now deeply successful, appeared to help him plant vines years later.

The idea of churning out wine in a place that is absolutely ideal has no appeal, so there was something entrancing about the idea that it’s impossible to make wine here, in the harsh wilderness of McElmo Canyon.

Two of Colorado's most celebrated and trusted winemakers began to build this iconic label. Ben Parsons first, on his way to creating the legendary Infinite Monkey and then Joe Buckle for 12 years before establishing Buckle Family Wine. What a great start.

We remain committed to their passion and talent. Twenty years on, the vines are weathered and strong, the wine more complex, and the tradition continues under Jesus Castillo’s devoted eye. We have been told that our inception was the beginning of a new approach to winemaking in our beloved Colorado, 4,000 cases a year of world class wine. To this day, we continue to garner more awards than any other Colorado Vineyard. Isolated, idiosyncratic, passionate and stubborn, we know no other way.

History of Sutcliffe Vineyards

In 2017 we stole Mikey Christensen from Stonefish, a great Sushi restaurant, where he was sous-chef. He had joked with our winemakers, who frequented the place, about making wine, and soon afterwards he came on board. We knew he was a good cook and loved the great sauces he made from the chillis he grew, but we were soon to learn that his brilliant sense of flavor and taste would be a vital component of  our wine making. He is both innovative and a traditionalist in his approach and his taste can always be relied upon.

Our Winemaker Jesus Castillo began his career at the Vineyard in 1996, managing the livestock and hay operation. His firm but gentle way with the animals was astonishing as well as his ability to rope a crazy heifer plunging through the willows. As the Wine operation grew, Jesus became increasingly involved, first with Ben Parsons of "Infinite Monkey" notoriety, Joe Buckel of Buckel family wine and as mentor to David Culliton of the Fableist in Paso Robles. All the winemakers extolled Jesus' talents and this has been endorsed by the fabulous wines he has crafted since 2017. We are proud to have had Jesus raise his 3 children on the Vineyard.

Inventors & Trailblazers

Meet the Team

  • John Sutcliffe

    FOUNDER

    As I get older, much older, I feel compelled to explain why I choose to continue on the same demanding and at times anguished path. I have always loved to spin a tale and I have done enough things, seen enough places and met enough people to keep some of those tales interesting. Why then not rest on those experiential moments to regale my friends and acquaintances, perhaps inject the odd twist or detail to retain their attention. Quite simply it is in the joy of new moments, new places, new people that have always funded the stories, would I deny myself those pleasures in the future. Would I be satisfied to have found a place of tired contentment. My compulsion is to communicate my endless curiosity, my tireless fascination with ideas and thoughts, from the most compelling to most amusing. I have a Vineyard and Farm and people deeply committed to its success, who have assumed the same fascination with this eccentric place. I am compelled to ensure they take it further. It is a role I cannot deny.

  • Jesus Castillo

    LEAD WINEMAKER

    Our Winemaker Jesus Castillo began his career at the Vineyard in 1996, managing the livestock and hay operation. His firm but gentle way with the animals was astonishing as well as his ability to rope a crazy heifer plunging through the willows. As the Wine operation grew, Jesus became increasingly involved, first with Ben Parsons of "Infinite Monkey" noteriority, Joe Buckel of Buckel family wine and as mentor to David Culliton of the Fableist in Paso Robles. All the winemakers extolled Jesus' talents and this has been endorsed by the fabulous wines he has crafted since 2017. We are proud to have had Jesus raise his 3 children on the Vineyard, a demanding but exciting place.

  • Mikey Christensen

    ASSISTANT WINEMAKER

    In 2017 we stole Mikey Christensen from Stonefish, a great Sushi restaurant, where he was sous-chef. He had joked with our winemakers, who frequented the place, about making wine, and soon afterwards he came on board. We knew he was a great cook and loved the great sauces he made from the chillis he grew, but we were soon to learn that his brilliant sense of flavor and taste would be a vital component of our wine making. He is both innovative and a traditionalist in his approach and his taste can always be relied upon.

  • Hannah Acee

    REPRESENTATIVE

    "We have always had a penchant for stealing good help. Good people always have a job. Hannah was plucked from our favorite coffee shop. Somehow we knew that the way seemed above the mire would suit us, didn't care how young she was, liked her poise and confidence, knew she would thrive if given a project of her own. We were right—her style and creativity prevail in everything she touches. The events she holds are whimsical and clever, and Hannah’s ability to promote Durango is paramount. We sometimes even celebrate our inability to curb her fun... sometimes!"

  • Celestia French

    CREATIVE DIRECTOR

    A Native Santa Fean, Celestia has made her home with her husband and their two children in Durango, Colorado. Her adoration for excellent food and wine makes her a perfect fit to the Sutcliffe Team. Her careers have varied from modeling and photo shoot production, writing and magazine editing, to online marketing and creative direction. When not baking scones for John’s garden parties and taking thousands of pictures of our clients and staff for social media, you can find her hiking and camping with her family, or with her nose in a glass of wine whilst dreamily writing up tasting notes.

  • Antonio Samperio

    VINEYARD OPERATIONS

    Searching for answers in a state of despair, Antonio has developed an eye for opportunity. Robust health, compassionate decisiveness and an autodidact mentality has secured this lad a spot in McElmo Canyon. Mexican American, Antonio shares truths with everyone on the team and fills roles from splitting logs to looking after the Wine Society. He’s found all the mentorship needed to understand every aspect of the business. Aspirations of legacy for the estate. Antonio has a fire in the belly that can only be doused with wine.

  • Carrie Clay

    GENERAL MANAGER

    "Carrie, a McElmo Canyon native and seasoned hotelier, felt the irresistible pull to return to her roots in this enchanting canyon. Having traveled the world, she still believes McElmo is the most beautiful stop of all. Her passion for wine, appreciation of the surrounding beauty, and love for outdoor activities have seamlessly integrated into her role at Sutcliffe Vineyards. Carrie brings a harmonious balance to our team, adeptly ensuring accountability while fostering a joyful atmosphere. Despite her modest claims of not being a chef, she frequently delights us with her sweet culinary creations—perhaps earning her the title of our resident baker. Her confidence and charismatic interactions with everyone she meets are truly commendable."

Sutcliffe Values

Nurturing Nature, Crafting Excellence, & Building Community


Letting the Earth Speak

At the heart of our vineyard lies a profound respect for the natural world. We see ourselves as stewards of the land, and this reverence for nature informs every aspect of our winemaking. Our goal is not just to produce exceptional wines, but to do so in harmony with nature.

Building Community

Wine is meant to be shared, and we believe in fostering connections within our community. Whether it's welcoming guests to our tasting rooms, collaborating with local artisans, or supporting charitable initiatives, we strive to create a sense of belonging and togetherness. Sutcliffe Vineyards is not just a place to enjoy wine; it's a gathering point where relationships are nurtured and memories are made. 

Crafting Excellence

We are dedicated to the artistry of winemaking. Every vine, every grape, and every barrel is treated with meticulous care and attention.Quality is non-negotiable, and our commitment to crafting exceptional wines is unwavering.

Honoring Heritage

While we are dedicated to innovation, we also hold deep reverence for tradition. Our vineyard's history is woven into the fabric of our wines, and we take pride in honoring the winemakers who came before us. It's this balance between the old and the new that lends depth and character to our wines.

In every bottle of Sutcliffe wine, you'll find a distillation of these values—nature's bounty, the pursuit of excellence, a sense of community, and a deep respect for tradition. We invite you to share in these values with us, raising a glass to the beauty of the land, the artistry of winemaking, and the connections that make life richer.

Welcome to Sutcliffe Vineyards, where our values become your experience.

Friends & Allies

  • Dunton Town House - Telluride, CO

    To ensure that Dunton guests have somewhere comparable to stay in Telluride (just over the mountain) the Dunton Town House on Oak Street was lovingly restored. There is always staff on hand to pilot guests through the best of Telluride, and even help with skis or a picnic on the interminable, two minute walk to the Gondola.

  • The National - Telluride, CO

    How did the National in Telluride become the place to be within moments of opening? Having Marrin and her brilliant staff operating the place didn’t hurt. It feels like a serious city restaurant. Super design, delicious, creative food and a really sophisticated spot. Proud to have our wines there.

  • Anatolian Farms

    Named after their beloved Anatolian Shepherds, Anatolian Farms starts by deeply caring for the health of their soil to provide the best quality produce you can find. Cassandra and Ekin thrive on growing as many varieties as they can, to harvest fresh-to-order, and to get the max amount of fresh nutrients straight to the plate.

    Anatolian Farms - Mancos, CO
  • Steamworks Brewing Co. - Durango, CO

    When every restaurant and bar in Durango is dead, Steamworks is cranking. They make great beer, great food, it’s a constant party and they love to serve Sutcliffe Wines…. no wonder they are so incredibly successful.

  • Amangiri - Canyon Point, UT

    Amangiri might be America’s most glamorous resort. An architectural masterpiece lying amongst towering, desiccated canyon walls, just minutes from Lake Powell and the tumbling waters of the Colorado River. Every couple of months Sutcliffe Vineyards does an evening of wine, stories and paired dinners, made even more interesting by the fascinating array of guests in this magical place.

  • Kennebec Cafe - Durango, CO

    Inspired by the casual elegance of European cafes, Kennebec Cafe offers a unique dining experience in an atmosphere of casual elegance, gracious hospitality and warm comfortable surroundings.

  • The Butcher & The Baker Cafe - Telluride, CO

    The Butcher & The Baker Cafe in Telluride is constantly and justifiably busy. Committed to local, fresh, organic and, equally important, truly delicious food. We find their wickedly tempting pastries irresistible, and always delighted to register their commitment to Sutcliffe Wines.

  • Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch

    Understanding the sacred beauty of McElmo Canyon is our long-time neighbors Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch. Their passion for hosting so many guests to this canyon is only surpassed by their knowledge of the area. Together Sutcliffe Vineyards and Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch, provide amazing experiences for all guests.

    Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch
  • Honey Hole Hospitality

    Inspired by that moment, Chef Brian Wallace and Fran Wallace started Honey Hole Hospitality—an elevated catering and private dining company with a heartfelt mission to create events that are not only memorable but also warm, inviting, and personal. They love inspiring people to explore food in new ways, while fostering genuine connection and joy. With Honey Hole Hospitality, we’re excited to share the same sense of care and togetherness that made our own journey so special, bringing people together through food, wine, celebration, and heartfelt service.

  • Canyon Trails Ranch

    Canyon Trails Ranch is a family-owned ranch in McElmo Canyon, with horseback riding, secluded camping/glamping, a carriage shop, and chuckwagon catering. 

    They are located 1 mile east of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, 1.4 miles from Sutcliffe Vineyards, between Mesa Verde National Park and Hovenweep National Monument.

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Annual Harvest Dinner