Colorado's Grand Valley - particularly the eastern stretch - is unofficially considered 'Colorado Wine Country' and is quickly becoming a popular and sought after destination for Enotourism because of both the growing interest in wine tourism and the abundance of natural recreational activities and scenery surrounding the area including Colorado National Monument and the Book Cliffs. There are around two dozen wineries/vineyards in addition to an abundance of cideries, meaderies, and orchards. Viticulture began in the area in the late 19th century. State Governor George A. Crawford planted a vineyard in the Grand Valley in 1890. To this day, most of Colorado's grape production is from the Grand Valley AVA. Vineyards in the valley are planted at elevations as high as above sea level. However, the continental climate somewhat limits the varieties used in grape production and not all varieties produce substantial yields. Grape varieties planted within the AVA vary widely and average yields are relatively low at about 2.5 tons/acre. Wine styles range from dry white and red wines to semi-sweet and dessert wines; and even ice wine. Due to the abundance of orchards in the area many growers will incorporate other local fruits - such as peaches, plums and cherries - into their sweeter wines. However, traditional Merlot & Riesling are two of the most popular and easily grown and known grapes in Grand Valley.