The state of Arizona can get pretty hot. Folks in parts of the state are still seeing triple digits even though it is well into October. But these beautiful wineries across Arizona are the perfect way to escape the heat.
Sonoita Vineyards
Courtesy of pattitoddpublicrelations.com
Located in Southern Arizona, Sonoita Vineyards is an award winning winery that was founded in 1983. They offer all types of wine from crisp and fruity to bold and smooth. It also happens to be the oldest commercial winery in Arizona and is home to over 50 acres of vineyard. It sits in the small town of Elgin, just south of Tucson. Sonoita Vineyards make a sweet wine that has a hint of peach called Sparkles Peach and is a great dessert wine. They also have a Pinot Noir that is rich and full of black cherry and raspberry. This one is extremely delicious and a typical dry red wine with a fruity taste. The Angel Wings is a wine made of nectarines and apple and is a light, crisp white wine that goes great with cheese and fruit. More information can be found at their website.
Zarpara Vineyard
Courtesy of Kirstie Jorve
Zarpara Vineyard is located about 15 miles south of the southern town of Wilcox. The winery has a beautiful outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy a picnic while sipping wine and gazing at the beautiful desert view. The winery and tasting room opened in 2012 and is just getting started. They offer many types of wines like the Viognier 2013, which is a classic blend of florals and fruit. If you are looking for a traditional zinfandel, their Zinfandel 2012 is bold with a hint of black currant. Check out more of their wines on their website.
Arizona Stronghold Winery
Courtesy of azstronghold.com
Arizona Stronghold Winery is one of the most popular wineries in the state and is located in Northern Arizona. It is in a gorgeous location that is home to some really delicious wines. It was founded in 2007 to help put Arizona on the wine map and it worked. They believe that wine doesn’t have to be expensive to taste great. The tasting room in Cottonwood is only a short drive from the Valley and worth the trip. The 2011 ASV Dala Chardonnay is a true, 100% chardonnay. It is one of the best wines for the price that I have had. Also, the 2013 ASV Nachise is a great choice. It is a unique blend of blackberries, mint and juniper. It also has a hint of oak and a long finish. Check out full list of wines on their website.
