Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Arizona Wineries

Arizona Wineries

When people think of Arizona, most people do not think of Arizona wineries. Most people think of the Grand Canyon, desert, the beautiful Sonoran desert and maybe more desert. Wine making does not likely enter the mind of most people when they think of the desert southwest.

Those who truly know and understand Arizona know that that wineries in Arizona really are very much a part of the desert southwest. There are many vineyards and wineries throughout the state of Arizona so don't be too concerned about being too far away from the nearest location if you would like to access one of these vineyards.

Most vineyard sites in Arizona are located in the southeast corner of the state, but you will be able to find vineyards literally throughout the state with no problem whatsoever.

If you happen to visit the world-wide known Sedona area, you will also find several vineyards to suit your wine-tasting taste buds throughout the beautiful red rock area that surrounds the area. There you will also find tours and scheduled taste testings several times throughout the week for your convenience. Some of these vineyards are situated a short 10 minute drive from the Sedona valley.

If you are fortunate enough to take a trip to the Southern Trail of Arizona wine country, you will want to make sure you visit the local vineyards that have put Arizona on the wine making map list.

Some of the wines that are produced in this area have been honored nationally and internationally, even by the usually less than impressed French media. The southeast Trail is also the home to the "Island in the Sky," which is a wonderfully unique and spiritual area. You will be able to discover the famous red rock formations that provide you with breathtaking views.

According to the Arizona Wine Grower's Association, the climate and soil studies have shown that the desert in the state resembles the region that is similar to Ribera Del Duero, Southeastern Australia, Spain, and also Southern France. The Arizona Grower's Association also views the Arizona region as a replication of the area located in Paso Robles, California.

The most notable wines that you will find in Arizona are Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Merlot, Mourvedre/Mataro, Riesling, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah/Shiraz, and Zinfandel.

While there may be more wineries in California as well as other parts of the world, there are some very nice benefits that you will discover while exploring wineries in Arizona. The grapes are grown on mineral rich organic soil which is the perfect recipe for producing some of the most award winning wines.

One of the first things you will probably appreciate right away is the fact that you will not have to deal with the infamous crowds as with other wineries that you may have visited.

One thing to keep in mind is that you might be well served if you call ahead instead of just showing up. Many of these wineries in AZ operate by appointment only during the week, so call ahead to be sure your visit is confirmed.

Arizona's wine country is the choice of many wine lovers because it is closer to home and less expensive than other vineyards.

In the past, Arizona grapes were actually sold to wine makers who lived out of state. However, that has changed and the state could not be happier to be a part of wine making!

Although you will find locations that take part in wine making, Arizona's primary wine country is considered to be about a three-hour drive that is located south of the Phoenix metropolitan area.
The area is said to be one that is perfect for wine making and consists of desert grasslands surrounded by approximately 5,000 feet in elevation. The weather, too, is considerably cooler, boasting summer temperatures that are about 10 to 15 degrees lower than Tucson. The nights offer wine makers the cooler nights that are the ripe element needed for these great tasting wines.

Cecilia Valenzuela is a full time entrepreneur and advocate for helping other hopeful entrepreneurs. Valenzuela is a translator, teacher and successful online business owner who lives and works in Arizona. Find out more about wineries and other Arizona attractions at: http://www.my-arizona-desert-living.com/Arizona-Wineries.html

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