BYOB

It’s last call for Rico’s sole liquor store, The Motherlode. After 22 years of slinging suds and spirits in the tiny mountain hamlet, owner David Fabian has called it quits. Speaking from his winterstead in Baja, Mexico, this week, Fabian said he sold his last sixer three weeks ago.

“I’ve been doing it for so long, I needed less things to think about when I’m down here,” said Fabian, 72. “It was a good run.”

Originally from California, the young ski bum moved to Rico in ’72 around the time Telluride Ski Resort opened. “I’m a snowbird now, though,” he said.

Fabian, who owns the building, said he tried to sell the business but had no takers. “Winter’s pretty tough here,” he said.

Someone came in and bought the remaining inventory, he said, and the lights of the neon beer signs went out with little fanfare. “We may have drank a few beers,” he said.

But just like the green that will inevitably return to the surrounding 12,000-foot peaks, hope springs eternal. “I’m hoping someone comes along and picks it up,” he said. “You won’t get rich, but you can make a living.”

As for Rico-ites, the dry season is only beginning. The Enterprise Bar, which is next door, closed the day after Thanksgiving for two weeks.

“They’re kinda bummed,” Fabian said of his regulars who will no longer be able to get ’loded. “The town needs it.”

But all is not lost. Fabian said he’ll entertain all good offers. “It’s a nice opportunity for someone,” he said. If that someone’s you, give Fabian a call: 970-729-0542. Do it for Rico.