Arizona Wine Areas
The Arizona Travel Guide looks at the three main Arizona wine areas with information about Sonoita, Willcox and the Verde Valley.
According to the Arizona Wine Growers Association (AGWA), there are over 110 wineries in Arizona. That sounds like a lot when you consider that Arizona is hardly noted for its wines, but it pales in comparison to some other states. Oregon, for example, has ten times as many wineries as Arizona (1,116 as of a recent count), and California has almost 5,000 wineries. However, the number of wineries in Arizona has been steadily growing in recent years, showcasing the flourishing Arizona wine industry.
Arizona Wine Areas
Arizona has three main wine areas:
Sonoita: This region, south of Tucson, was the first AVA (American Viticultural Area) in Arizona.
Willcox: Located east of Tucson, this region is known for its high-quality grapes, particularly Bordeaux varieties.
Verde Valley: This region, north of Phoenix, is gaining popularity and produces a diverse range of wines.
These regions offer distinct terroir and produce unique wines, showcasing the growing diversity of Arizona’s wine industry.
Sonoita
The Sonoita AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a special place in the Arizona wine world.
Location: If you’re interested in exploring Arizona’s wine scene, Sonoita is definitely a must-visit! The Sonoita AVA is located in southeastern Arizona, about an hour’s drive south of Tucson. Head for the town of Elgin and you won’t go far wrong, with many of the wineries in and around the town.
Pioneering Spirit: It holds the distinction of being Arizona’s first AVA, established in 1984. This signifies its early recognition for its unique terroir and potential for producing high-quality wines.
Terroir & Climate:
- Elevation: Situated at an elevation between 4,000 and 5,000 feet, Sonoita benefits from cooler temperatures compared to lower-lying regions. This moderates the heat, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors.
- Surrounding Mountains: The Santa Rita, Huachuca, and Whetstone mountains provide a dramatic backdrop and significantly influence the microclimate. They create a rain shadow effect, leading to dry conditions ideal for viticulture.
- Soil: A diverse range of soils, including limestone, granite, and volcanic soils, contributes to the complexity and character of the wines.
Viticulture:
- Focus on Quality: Many vineyards in Sonoita practice sustainable and organic farming methods, emphasizing quality over quantity.
- Grape Varieties: While a variety of grapes are grown, some of the standouts include:
- Bordeaux Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah often thrive in this region.
- Rhône Varieties: Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah are also gaining popularity.
Wine Styles:
- Diverse Range: Sonoita produces a wide range of wines, from elegant and refined to bold and robust.
- Focus on Quality: Many wineries prioritize producing small-lot, handcrafted wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Wine Tourism: Sonoita has become a popular destination for wine lovers. Numerous wineries offer tasting rooms, tours, and events, providing a chance to experience the region’s wines firsthand.
Willcox
The Willcox winegrowing region is a prominent area in southeastern Arizona, known for producing high-quality wines. Here’s a closer look:
Location: Situated in southeastern Arizona, specifically in Cochise and Graham counties. It’s located about 60-90 minutes east of Tucson along I-10.
Key Characteristics:
- High Elevation: Vineyards in Willcox typically sit at elevations between 3,800 and 4,500 feet above sea level. This high altitude contributes to significant diurnal temperature swings (large differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures), which are crucial for grape ripening.
- Climate: The region enjoys a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cool nights. This combination allows grapes to ripen slowly and develop intense flavors and aromas.
- Soil: Diverse soil types, including volcanic soils and limestone-rich soils, contribute to the unique character of the wines.
Viticulture:
- Focus on Bordeaux Varieties: Willcox is particularly well-suited for Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. These grapes tend to thrive in the region’s warm days and cool nights.
- Other Varieties: Other successful varieties include Malbec, Tempranillo, and Grenache.
Wines:
- Bold and Robust Reds: Willcox is known for producing bold, robust red wines with concentrated flavors and complex aromas.
- Increasing Diversity: While red wines are the hallmark of the region, some wineries are also producing successful white wines.
Wine Tourism: Willcox has a growing wine tourism industry with several wineries offering tasting rooms, tours, and events.
Verde Valley
The Verde Valley is a burgeoning wine region in Arizona. Here’s a closer look:
Location: Situated in central Arizona, in Yavapai County. It’s located approximately 100 miles (a two-hour drive) north of Phoenix, mostly along I-17. The region is nestled between the Bradshaw Mountains to the west and the Mingus Mountains to the east.
Key Characteristics:
- Diverse Terroir: The Verde Valley boasts a diverse range of microclimates and soil types, allowing for the cultivation of various grape varieties.
- Elevation: Vineyards are typically planted at elevations between 3,000 and 4,000 feet, providing cooler nights and warmer days, ideal for ripening grapes.
- Water Sources: The Verde River plays a significant role in the region’s viticulture, providing a vital water source for irrigation.
Viticulture:
- Growing Diversity: The region is known for its diversity of grape varieties, including both classic European varieties and some unique selections.
- Focus on Quality: Many wineries in the Verde Valley prioritize sustainable and organic farming practices.
Wines:
- Variety of Styles: Produces a wide range of wines, from crisp whites and refreshing rosés to bold reds.
- Emerging Region: The Verde Valley is a relatively young wine region, but it’s quickly gaining recognition for its high-quality wines.
Wine Tourism: The Verde Valley Wine Trail is a popular destination for wine lovers, offering a chance to visit numerous wineries, enjoy tastings, and experience the region’s unique charm.
Frommer’s Arizona and the Grand Canyon
This is our recommended guide for Arizona and the Grand Canyon, if you’re thinking of planning a visit. The two authors both live full-time in Arizona and the book is therefore based on lifetime experiences of the state. It has 86% 5- and 4-star ratings on Amazon.
