By: Lisa Wagenheim, Partner at Sonoran Wines in Cochise County
TUCSON, ARIZONA (August 2, 2023) -- The Arizona wine industry has experienced extraordinary growth in the last decade. There are now 126 unique winery licenses[1] in the Grand Canyon state. From Verde Valley south to Sonoita and east to Willcox and the Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona's stunning vistas and vibrant vineyards have drawn wine enthusiasts from far and wide. Our unique climate, diverse terroir, and dedicated community of vineyards and winemakers have established Arizona as a destination for quality wines.
Sonoran Wines is proud to be part of this continuing trend, riding the wave generated by industry pioneers who helped establish Arizona’s reputation as a credible wine-producing region, with a growing collection of awards to prove it!
Arizona wine tourism generated $64.4 million[2] in 2019, and wine-related tourism is expected to impact the state’s future economy substantially. As a result, wineries are investing in tasting rooms, restaurants, and lodging to cater to this burgeoning interest. Events, festivals, and tour companies are also rising as wine-related tourism impacts the region.
Sonoran Wines has benefited from the hard work and vision of pioneers throughout the state. Arizona's wine industry is characterized by a community of passionate winemakers, vineyard owners, and enthusiasts willing to share knowledge—a key factor in the success of Arizona wine, the camaraderie of its many participants, and of course, the quality of the wine.
The climate is the primary challenge for Arizona's wine industry. Our dry air and extreme temperature ranges benefit grapes suited for this region but also create unique hurdles. Success will rely on adapting farming practices to address extreme weather conditions and water shortages. As the state faces water availability and allocation challenges, it will be critical to develop sustainable water-management practices. But it will take more than action-oriented vineyards to address these issues; farmers, policymakers, and other stakeholders must work together to build a more resilient agricultural sector that can thrive in the face of increasing water scarcity.
With a commitment to sustainability, tourism, innovation, and collaboration, the Arizona wine industry is well-positioned to thrive, engaging in a broader market and gaining global recognition. The remarkable determination, creativity, and passion for winemaking will establish Arizona on the world wine map.
Sonoran Wines is located along the edge of a desert greenbelt that spans the banks of Turkey Creek as it meanders from the Chiricahua Mountains into the valley below. Our unique location and mineral-rich soil support our extraordinary grape production, connecting every sip to this magnificent desert landscape. Sonoran Wines recently won Double Gold and Best in Class for our 2018 Real de Terrenate in the prestigious 2023 Sunset International Wine Competition, receiving a score of 97. We proudly announce that every Sonoran Wine submitted to the Sunset competition received an award!
Learn more about us and sip Sonoran—visit www.sonoranwines.com.
[1] Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control
[2] Arizona Wine Growers Association