August 10th, 2023
Explore Arizona Wine Country in this Perfect Day Trip
When people think of Arizona, wine might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, the state has a burgeoning wine industry with several regions producing outstanding varietals. If you’re a wine enthusiast visiting the Phoenix area, a day trip to Arizona’s wine regions is a must. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual journey through the Arizona wine scene, sharing important facts about wine in the state and highlighting our memorable visits to some of the wineries in the region.
The Arizona wine regions are easily accessible from Phoenix, making it a convenient day trip. Most wineries are located within a 2-3 hour drive from the city, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the countryside without venturing too far.
Arizona’s wine regions benefit from a unique combination of high elevation and arid desert climate. The diurnal temperature shifts contribute to the development of complex flavors in the grapes, while the diverse soil types and rocky terrain add character to the wines.
Arizona is known for its diverse grape varietals. While traditional European varieties like Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre thrive in the region, winemakers also experiment with lesser-known grapes such as Tempranillo, Sangiovese, and Malvasia Bianca. Over the past few decades, the Arizona wine industry has experienced rapid growth and gained recognition for its quality wines. Today, there are over 120 licensed wineries in the state, showcasing the passion and dedication of local winemakers.
Our Wine Journey:
Dos Cabezas WineWorks – Our first stop was Dos Cabezas, located about 80 miles southeast of Phoenix. We indulged in a flight tasting, savoring the diverse range of wines they offered. Paired with a delightful lunch pizza, the experience was nothing short of exquisite. I couldn’t resist taking home a bottle of their exceptional Syrah.
Los Milics – Our second stop was Los Milics, situated a short distance from Dos Cabezas. Although they were undergoing construction on a new tasting room during our visit, it is now open to the public. We were fortunate enough to enjoy a tour led by one of the winemakers, Ita. The personal touch added depth to our experience, and we left with a bottle of their refreshing Rosé.
AZ Hops and Vine – Next on our itinerary was AZ Hops and Vine, a winery known for its outdoor live music events and female ownership. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the melodious tunes, made for an unforgettable experience. I specifically enjoyed their bottling of wines and took home The Perfect End.
The Meading Room – Our final destination was a unique establishment where we discovered the wonders of mead. Mead is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey, often infused with fruits, spices, or herbs. The casual and laid-back atmosphere, complete with games, made this stop particularly enjoyable. We left with a bottle of their breakfast wine.
The wine regions around Phoenix, Arizona, offer a delightful day trip for wine enthusiasts. From the unique climate and terroir to the passionate winemakers, the state’s wine industry has much to offer. Our personal journey included stops at Dos Cabezas, Los Milics, AZ Hops and Vine, and The Meading Room, each leaving a lasting impression. So, the next time you’re in the Phoenix area, consider exploring the Arizona wine regions and immersing yourself in the world of Arizona’s fine wines. And don’t forget to bring a bottle or two home as a memento of your experience. Cheers!
Shaunna and Shayla are the two sisters behind Wine Spencer. A contemporary wine brand that exists to inspire people to decant and appreciate the taste of wine. The two fell in love with wine early and chose to pursue WSET Level 2 sommelier certifications. Both were eager to share their passion with the world, so they joined forces, naming their new venture in the tradition of their father, grandfather, and great grandfather’s name ‘Spencer.’ It is a name that denotes stewardship, guidance, protection, and cherishing. Both sisters have a strong desire to redefine what wine means and give it a modern significance. Their focus is providing the wine novice and the oenophile an opportunity to create bespoke wine experiences.