For 20 years my family and I have driven by James Ranch on our way to Haviland Lake, Purgatory, Molas Lake, Silverton, Ouray.......................... and have watched the ranch grow as we fly past on 550. We finally, recently stopped. Where do I start? First off the person who set up the store is a genius! When you walk in the front door of the store your senses are hit with the most relaxing aroma therapy wafting from the handmade soaps located just to your right. (Yes, it was the first thing I picked up!) As you move along the store you are treated to some of the most amazing local art. Earrings, blankets, handspun wool. But then there's the cooler. Filled with meats, cheeses, breads, sausages, just yummy, yummy, organic goodness. Then there's the book corner. (I had to limit myself at 5. THIS time.) I understand all the authors were local. (Actually even though James Ranch owners seem to have their bases covered with their own beef, pork, cheese "artists" they welcome local artists to showcase their art.) So back to the cooler. We ended up buying some of the chorizo. I love homemade chorizo and this did not disappoint. We also bought a roast that I cooked last night. I took all the praises from my family at how good that roast was. But at the end of the day I knew, there was NO WAY anybody could have screwed up that roast! We also ate while we at James Ranch. I almost feel sorry for any other burger I will ever eat again. The James Burger set a standard only Ramsey can beat. OH! I didn't even mention the deck!? Or the picnic tables on the lawn? Or the view of the cows grazing in the meadow while I drip juices from an organic beef burger on my face!? NOT sorry! OH! And shout-out to Adam who had to wait to close the store because we couldn't tear ourselves away from "the ranch" side of James Ranch. Guess we'll be back earlier in the day next time! read more