2026 Festival Schedule
A weekend of curated culinary experiences, tastings, and memory-making in the mountains.
Telluride Food & Wine
Telluride Reserve unfolds across three days of carefully curated experiences. From small-format tastings and collaborative dinners to thought-provoking conversations with leaders in food, wine, and hospitality, each event is designed to bring guests closer to the people and ideas shaping the industry.
Two Curated Packages
Experience More of Telluride Reserve
Telluride Reserve packages are designed to give guests a seamless way to experience the festival’s signature events. By bundling select tastings, seminars, and dinners into thoughtfully curated itineraries, these packages offer the most immersive way to enjoy the weekend while securing access to some of the festival’s most sought-after experiences.
Dates: July 30 - August 1, 2026
The Full Course Package offers an immersive Reserve experience, including access to a collection of signature events and the exclusive opportunity to choose one of two thoughtfully curated seminars that fit seamlessly within your schedule. Designed for the culinary enthusiast, this package blends elevated tastings, expert-led experiences, and a personalized touch.
Full Course Package includes:
• Thursday, July 30 – Welcome Reception
• Friday, July 31 – Your choice of one of four curated seminars
• Friday, July 31 – Closer to the Stars: Dinner at Bon Vivant
• Saturday, August 1 – Grand Tasting with Reserve Access
• Saturday, August 1 – Adieu BBQ
• Invitations to Telluride Reserve Pop-Ups
• Telluride Reserve Welcome Bag
Date: August 1, 2026
Venue: Mountain Village
Event Type: Tasting
Time: 12:45pm & 7pm
Enjoy entry to two of the most anticipated signature events on the final day of Telluride Reserve—the Grand Tasting and Adieu BBQ. Start by making the rounds at the Grand Tasting, where top chefs and winemakers pour, plate, and share their best. Then head to the lively Adieu BBQ for smoky, mouthwatering barbecue, Caymus Vineyards wines, satisfying beers and plenty of good company for the perfect send-off to an incredible weekend.
Saturday, August 1 – Grand Tasting with Reserve Access
Saturday, August 1 – Adieu BBQ
browse events
Event Type: Signature Event
Date: July 30, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Timber Room at the Madeline Hotel & Residences
Set in the Timber Room at the Madeline Hotel & Residences, First Pour opens Telluride Reserve in signature alpine style. In the heart of Mountain Village, guests mingle with celebrated chefs, sommeliers, and wine partners while enjoying flowing bubbles, exceptional wines, freshly shucked oysters and a celebratory Chirashi Sushi from Chef Jonah Kim. The atmosphere is vibrant and anticipatory, offering a first taste of the conversations and unforgettable culinary moments that will unfold across Telluride in the days ahead.
Event Type: Seminar
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Ah Haa School for the Arts
Few dishes inspire stronger opinions than Eggs Benedict, and at Telluride Reserve, every detail matters. Returning after last year’s lively Paella & Pintxos class, Chef John Courtney invites guests into the art of this beloved classic, guiding them through delicately poached eggs, airy, balanced hollandaise, and the thoughtful techniques that elevate a simple staple into something memorable. In this intimate, limited-seat seminar, guests enjoy up-close access to Chef John—tasting, asking questions, sipping bubbles, and gaining the confidence to recreate this timeless culinary classic at home.
Event Type: Lunch
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Location: Bon Vivant
Perched at 11,200 feet, this Bon Vivant lunch is a true alpine reward. Dawn your favorite alpine chic attire for the gradual, under-two-mile scenic hike, or go with the optional open-air off-road vehicle ride available as an add-on. At the summit, sweeping views of Mt. Wilson set the stage for welcome Champagne, followed by a roaming European Alps–inspired feast of pristine cheeses presented by an expert affineur, hand-carved meats, and a live pasta demonstration by Francesco Allegro, all thoughtfully paired with curated European wines. Designed for grazing, lingering, and easy conversation, it’s an elevated mountaintop gathering that feels distinctly Telluride.
Event Type: Tasting
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 11:30 PM - 12:30 PM
Location: Ah Haa School for the Arts
Paso Robles’ dynamic west side comes into focus in this intimate tasting led by Edgar Torres, founder and winemaker of Songs Wines by Bodega de Edgar. Drawing on deep roots in the region, Torres explores how Paso Robles’ diverse soils and cooling marine influences shape the character of its wines, with particular focus on the varietals that thrive in these distinctive microclimates. As attendees taste a selection of Songs Wines produced in remarkably small quantities—just one or two barrels—Torres shares the stories, sites, and philosophy behind each bottle, offering a rare glimpse into some of the region’s most limited and expressive wines.
Event Type: Tasting
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Location: TBD
An intimate vertical tasting of Caymus Vineyards brings one of Napa Valley’s most recognized and respected names to Telluride. A benchmark in American winemaking, Caymus is celebrated by collectors and casual enthusiasts alike for its unmistakable style and consistency. Guided through a curated selection of wines, guests will explore the legacy and craftsmanship that have defined the brand for generations.
Event Type: Dinner
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Bon Vivant
A once-a-year culinary ascent unlike anything else, Closer to the Stars remains one of Telluride Reserve’s most coveted cornerstone events. Guests depart from San Sophia in off-road vehicles, winding up mountain trails to Bon Vivant, where they are welcomed with Champagne in a breathtaking alpine setting typically accessible only during ski season. At 11,200 feet, chefs Paul C. Reilly, Sheila Lucero, and Chris Thompson present a collaborative menu that celebrates nature and gastronomy at altitude, with each course thoughtfully paired with wines from Napa Valley’s esteemed Vineyard 29. After experiencing these remarkable wines in such a setting, guests will have the rare opportunity to secure bottles for their personal collections—an enduring reminder of a night spent dining closer to the stars.
Event Type: Seminar
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: Ah Haa School for the Arts
Sharpen your knife skills with Wölfe Cutlery. This class is designed to demystify the world of culinary blades and empower participants to wield their knives with confidence and precision. In addition to practical instruction, participants will also gain insight into the history, craftsmanship, and care of high-quality kitchen knives. Bring your questions, roll up your sleeves and let’s have some fun as we learn to slice, dice and chop with the most important tool in your kitchen.
Event Type: Tasting
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: TBD
Discover the depth of Napa Valley through an intimate tasting of Sign of the Dove Winery, Gemstone Vineyard, Pahlmeyer Winery, and Arietta Wine. This experience explores the contrast between mountain and valley-floor expressions, revealing how elevation, soil, and microclimate shape a wine’s structure, aromatics, and ageability. Through Michael Cooperman’s guided comparisons of single-vineyard bottlings, guests will uncover the sites and philosophies behind each bottle. Distinctive, layered, and rarely tasted side by side, these cellar-worthy wines offer a compelling look at the complexity and character that define Napa Valley.
Event Type: Dinner
Date: July 31, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: TBD
James Beard Foundation Award-winner “Best Chef: Mountain” Matt Vawter returns with his intentional, Italian-influenced cooking for a dinner shaped by craft, collaboration, and a sense of home. Joined by his partners Sean and Melissa McGaughey of their new Breckenridge venture Threefold, the evening explores the natural dialogue between Vawter’s ingredient-driven cuisine and the bakery’s long-fermented sourdough breads and thoughtfully crafted pastries. The result is a menu rooted in technique and warmth, where rustic Italian sensibilities meet the artistry of exceptional baking. Each course is paired with wines from Mending Wall Winery, whose acclaimed winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown is the youngest to ever to receive Robert Parker’s 100-point score.
Event Type: Experience & Tasting
Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Mill Creek Trail
Start your day with elevation, fresh air, and a well-earned aprés-hike glass in hand. Adventurers depart from the base of the Telluride Gondola for a shuttle ride to the top of Mill Creek Trail. Led by local guides from Mountain Trip, the scenic 3-mile route follows the Waterline Trail overlooking the Town of Telluride below, before descending the Jud Wiebe Trail. Upon finishing, hikers are rewarded with a guided tasting of distinctive wines from Adversity Cellars. You’ll likely find a few bottles calling your name to enjoy later around your own table where hiking boots are optional.
Event Type: Experience & Tasting
Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: TBD
If you’ve attended Telluride Reserve before, you’ve likely crossed paths with sommelier Andrew Shaffner, Wine Director for both Telluride Ski Resort and Telluride Reserve. Needless to say, Andrew knows a thing or a thousand about wine, and whatever he chooses for this seminar, you can count on a thoughtful lineup, engaging stories and a bit of playful banter. Whether those bottles happen to come from Italy or Colorado, you can be sure they will be remarkable and leave you craving more.
Event Type: Experience & Tasting
Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 12:45 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Heritage Plaza — Mountain Village
Elevate your Grand Tasting with Reserve Access. Enjoy entry 45 minutes before general admission for more intimate conversations with wineries and deeper exploration of their selections. Sip Champagne and hand-selected library wines at the exclusive Reserve Bar, served in a special stemmed glass. With larger pours and unparalleled access, Reserve guests can take their tasting journey to the next level, while discovering new bottles to take home.
Event Type: Experience & Tasting
Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Heritage Plaza — Mountain Village
Stroll into Mountain Village’s Heritage Plaza for a Grand Tasting made for discovery. Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring a thoughtfully curated mix of wines, spirits, and small bites as you expand your palate with new flavors. Meet the chefs behind the weekend’s lunches, dinners, and classes, hear the stories behind their dishes, and maybe add a few restaurants to your must-visit list. Along the way, discover wines and spirits that could become the next additions to your collection, or inspire your next great culinary trip.
Event Type: Signature Event
Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Reflection Plaza — Mountain Village
Close out Telluride Reserve with a rousing BBQ in Mountain Village’s Reflection Plaza, where smoke, fire, and mountain air set the stage for the festival’s grand finale. Mad Jack’s legendary slow-smoked brisket takes center stage alongside Kyle Bailey’s showstopping smoked ostrich leg, while Chef Jonah Kim adds an Asian BBQ-inspired twist. Chef Tiffany MacIsaac delivers a sweet Southern finish with mini pies and luscious banana pudding. Caymus Vineyards will be pouring a selection of their celebrated wines, or grab a cold beer to pair with that tasty barbecue. With live music and sunset skies, it’s the worthy send-off the weekend deserves.
Giving an experience always feels better than just handing over another thing to unwrap. With a Telluride Reserve gift card, you’re sharing a whole weekend of world-class wine, incredible food, and those mountain views that stay with you forever. Whether they want to dive into a masterclass or just relax over a shared table at a signature dinner, you’re giving them the freedom to pick their own perfect adventure. It’s just a great way to say, ‘I want you to experience this.’ Share the magic of the mountains and let them toast to something truly special during the festival.
FAQ
Where does the festival take place?
Telluride Reserve unfolds throughout Telluride and Mountain Village, Colorado—two alpine communities connected by the scenic, complimentary gondola. Events are hosted in a variety of beautiful venues across both towns, from mountaintop settings to intimate dining rooms. Please refer to the event schedule and your confirmation emails for the exact location of the experience you’ll be attending.
What time does the festival start?
Telluride Reserve is a three-day festival with events taking place throughout the day across Telluride and Mountain Village. Start times vary by experience, so please refer to the event schedule for the specific time and location of the event you’ll be attending.
Please note that some event times may vary depending on whether you are hiking or jeeping to Bon Vivant. All listed start times reflect the meeting time prior to transportation when transportation to the event is required.
What talent will be attending the festival this year?
Can I bring the whole family?
Telluride Reserve is designed for guests 21 and older, and all festival events require a valid ID for entry.
The Grand Tasting takes place in Mountain Village and has an open perimeter, so families may enjoy the surrounding plaza and activities nearby. Mountain Village offers a number of family-friendly options including the Gold Hill Mining Company gem and gold panning experience, the bungee trampoline, climbing wall, and other activities in Heritage Plaza.
Do I have to pay for food and drink during the festival?
No. All food and wine at Telluride Reserve events are included with your ticket.
We do encourage guests to support the remarkable wineries joining us for the weekend. Many of our wine partners offer opportunities to join their wine clubs or purchase wines you discover and love during the festival. It’s a wonderful way to continue enjoying the experience long after the weekend ends while supporting the producers who make the festival possible.
Is there transportation?
For experiences where transportation is required to reach the venue, it will be arranged and included with the event. Otherwise transportation is not provided unless specifically noted in your ticket description.
Telluride and Mountain Village are both very walkable, and many venues can easily be reached on foot. Please note that events take place in both the Town of Telluride and Mountain Village. Travel between the two is simple via the free gondola, which runs daily from approximately 6:30 a.m. until midnight. The ride between towns takes about 12–13 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
How do I get updates as new things are added to the schedule?
Sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear about new events, special experiences, and festival updates. You can also follow along on Instagram for announcements and behind-the-scenes moments as the schedule continues to evolve.
How do I volunteer?
Our volunteer application will be available soon. Please check back for the link and additional details on how to get involved.
Who does the festival support?
Telluride Reserve proudly supports Taste for Impact and the Telluride Mountain Club
Taste for Impact is dedicated to inspiring and empowering the next generation of culinary and wine professionals while also advocating for wellness and mental health within the hospitality industry. Through a nomination and interview process, culinary students from across the country are selected to participate in the festival, gaining hands-on experience alongside leading chefs and beverage professionals during events, workshops, and tastings. The program pairs practical training with mentorship and meaningful conversations around resilience, balance, and mental well-being in a demanding profession.
The festival also supports the Telluride Mountain Club, a local nonprofit committed to preserving and enhancing the region’s trails, open spaces, and outdoor experiences. Through stewardship, education, and community programs, the organization works to protect the landscapes that make Telluride such an extraordinary place to gather and celebrate.
When will will call be and when does it open?
Telluride Reserve does not have a central will call. Guests should proceed directly to the events for which they are registered.
For the Grand Tasting, check-in will be located at the base of the stairs from the gondola in Mountain Village, across from the Telluride Ski Resort ticket windows. Grand Tasting check-in opens one hour prior to the start of the event.
Do you offer refunds?
All ticket sales are final. In the unlikely event that Telluride Reserve must be canceled, ticket holders will receive a refund of their purchase price less credit card processing fees, or may elect to transfer their ticket to the following year’s festival. Any cancellation will be communicated to all patrons as soon as possible, along with additional instructions.
If the festival proceeds as planned and you determine you are unable to attend, please contact our team at least 30 days prior to the festival. Tickets may be deferred to the 2027 festival or refunded less a 15% administration fee.
Requests made within 30 days of the festival are eligible for ticket deferral only.
For questions, please contact info@telluridereserve.com.
How can I find additional programming details?
Programming will continue to be added as the festival approaches. To stay up to date on new events, experiences, and schedule additions, we encourage you to sign up for our newsletter.
How do I receive my event ticket or wristband?
You only need a wristband when attending the Grand Tasting. Grand Tasting check-in will be located at the base of the stairs from the gondola in Mountain Village, across from the Telluride Ski Resort ticket windows, and will open one hour prior to the start of the event.
For all other festival experiences, simply present your ticket upon arrival. Tickets may be printed or scanned directly from your phone at the event entrance.
Can I upgrade my ticket purchase?
Yes. If you would like to upgrade or make changes to your event tickets, please email info@telluridereserve.com and our team will be happy to assist.
Have a question that we didnt answer?
Send us an email – info@telluridereserve.com
