Would you believe wine production in what is now Arizona goes back to the 17th century when Spanish Jesuit priests planted grapevines to make wine for religious ceremonies? But in terms of modern winemaking, Arizona is still in its infancy, with wineries starting up in the 1970s.

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 How many wineries are in Arizona? 

There are over 120 wineries and tasting rooms in Arizona and three AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) including Sonoita and Willcox in Southern Arizona and the Verde Valley in Northern Arizona.

 

What grape varietals grow best in Arizona?

In general the grape varietals from the Rhone region of France, Italian and Spanish varietals grow best in Arizona. Some wines you’ll enjoy in our tasting rooms include reds like Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Petite Sirah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese. For white lovers the Grand Canyon state excels at Malvasia Bianca, Viognier and Roussane.

 

How can grapes grow in Arizona?

The secret to Arizona wine lies in the elevation where the vines are planted and the diurnal shift. The three AVAs in Arizona have elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 feet. The diurnal shift is the temperature swing these regions experience during a day, which can be upwards of 50 degrees. High daytime temperatures help develop sugar, while cool nights slow down grape and vine maturation. This phenomenon preserves aromas and natural acidity, which creates more complex, fresh, fruity flavors in wines.