Arizona’s arid landscape and scorching desert heat may seem like the last place to grow wine, but the state’s high elevation regions offer the perfect climate for producing premium wines. In this surprising oasis, wineries dot the landscape, showcasing the unique terroir of each region. Let’s delve into Arizona’s thriving wine scene, particularly in the Willcox region, and explore the standout Aridus Winery.
A World of Terroir
Arizona’s distinct wine regions, including Verde Valley, Sonoita-Elgin, and Willcox, each boast its own unique terroir. This is where the environment in which the grapes grow significantly impacts the flavor of the wine. The Willcox region, situated in southeastern Arizona, is particularly well-suited for wine production. Its high elevation (3,500 to 6,000 feet) provides warm days and cool nights, reminiscent of Argentina’s famous wine country.
Meet Aridus Winery
Aridus Winery, located in the heart of the Willcox region, is one of the state’s largest wineries. This former 28,000-square-foot apple warehouse has been transformed into a working winery, housing oak barrels alongside cutting-edge wine-making facilities. The winery is open for tours, offering a glimpse into the art and science of winemaking.
- Visit Aridus Winery for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process
- Book a tour in advance to ensure availability
- Enjoy wine tastings and charcuterie boards in the on-site tasting room
A Vineyard with a View
Aridus Winery’s 40-acre vineyard, located along Turkey Creek, provides an ideal climate for growing grapes. The elevation of 5,200 feet offers warm days and cool nights, perfect for ripening red grapes like malbec, syrah, and cabernet sauvignon. The vineyard sources drought-resistant varietals from Arizona, New Mexico, and California, ensuring a consistent harvest.
- Red grapes: malbec, syrah, and cabernet sauvignon
- White grapes: sauvignon blanc, viognier, and malvasia bianca
- Drought-resistant varietals: Arizona, New Mexico, and California sources
Wine Tastings and Tours
For those interested in wine, Aridus has a wine-tasting room located less than a mile away from the winery. The room offers flights of four wines to taste and compare, accompanied by charcuterie boards for a more enjoyable experience. The winery also has a fireplace for chilly days and an outdoor patio with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
| Tasting Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Wine Tasting Room | Flights of four wines to taste and compare, accompanied by charcuterie boards |
| Wine Tasting Room (Old Town Scottsdale) | Less than 10 miles from Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport |
A Nearby Oasis
If you’re planning a day of visiting wineries, consider staying at the charming Rose’s Motel, a family-run 1950s vintage motel lovingly refurbished. For a delicious meal, head to La Unica for a sit-down Mexican experience or Adolfo’s Taco Shop for a quick bite.
Exploring the Chiricahua Mountains
For a day trip, head south to the border town of Douglas, home to America’s first international airport. The Chiricahua and Pinaleño mountains offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience Arizona’s natural beauty.
“The Chiricahua and Pinaleño mountains… It’s absolutely beautiful,” Aridus owner Scott Dahmer told the Life Between the Vines podcast, “It has the Chiricahua mountains in the background…Turkey Creek that divides the property in half. It’s just stunning, a stunning background.”
A hidden gem of Arizona’s wine country, Aridus Winery offers a unique blend of natural beauty and exceptional wine.