An annual event showcasing wine, spirits and food will offer a taste of new and old while raising money to provide health care in Mesa County.

Edesia is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 24 at the Wine Country Inn in Palisade.

Named for the Roman goddess of food, Edesia will feature wines from new and established operations paired with cuisine. 

Sponsored by FCI Constructors and Alpine Bank, Edesia raises funds for MarillacHealth, which provides a range of health care services to uninsured and underinsured Mesa County residents.

“Our theme New Kids on the Wine Block reflects many changes in our industry and our neighborhood,” said Ian Kelley, general manager of the Wine Country Inn. “We thought Edesia would be an ideal venue for locals to catch up early in the season.” 

Kelley said several wineries have opened in the Grand Valley in recent years, among them Carboy, Ordinary Fellow, Sauvage Spectrum and Vines 79. There also have been changes in ownership at Grande River Vineyards, Maison La Belle Vie, Mesa Park and Whitewater Hill. 

Meanwhile, such established wineries as Colterris, DeBeque Canyon, Plum Creek, Red Fox, Talbots and Talon continue to introduce new wines, Kelley said.

“This is an exciting time to be in the Grand Valley. Our wines just get better and better, and so does the food,” he said. “The same terroir that produces great wines enriches our local crops and creates an unparalleled field-to-fork cuisine here.” 

In addition to wines, Edesia will offer tastes of beer, spirits and ciders as well as samples from food vendors. Local artists will perform live music.

What were other components of Edesia have been expanded into separate events scheduled for later in the year.

A New Kids Wine Dinner combining wines with a special menu is set for July 16 at the Wine Country Inn. 

“By making this a standalone dinner, we can slow down and take our time, exploring the nuances of the wines and how the flavor profiles of the food enhance the whole tasting experience,” said Chad Griffith, executive chef at the Wine Country Inn.

Grande River Vineyards and Talon Wine Brands will host a Live in the Grapevines concert set for Aug. 20. 

Edesia: A Palisade Culinary, Wine & Spirits Adventure is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 24 at the Wine Country Inn located at 777 Grande River Drive in Palisade. Tickets sell for $65 in advance and $75 at the door. For tickets or more information, visit https://edesiapalisade.com.