Willcox Wineries

The Willcox AVA, located in southeastern Arizona, represents a burgeoning region in American winemaking, recognized for its unique climate and noteworthy viticulture. Established in 2016, the AVA encompasses parts of Cochise and Graham counties and is particularly celebrated for its high elevation, which provides a cooler climate and greater diurnal temperature variations than other parts of Arizona. This distinct terroir contributes to producing high-quality wines, enhancing the complexity and richness of flavors. Visitors to the Willcox area can explore its 14 active wineries, such as Zarpara, Sand-Reckoner & Golden Rule, Sand-Reckoner Vineyards, and Flying Leap - Willcox, all of which offer a taste of the local viticulture excellence.

Known for producing a diverse array of grape varieties, the Willcox AVA particularly excels in growing Grenache, Syrah, Malvasia Bianca, and Sangiovese. These varieties benefit from the region's sandy loam soils and arid climate, resulting in balanced and expressive wines. Wine enthusiasts visiting this area can expect not only to taste delicious wines but also to appreciate the scenic beauty of the nearby Chiricahua Mountains and the vibrant culture of the local communities. With its rising reputation, Willcox offers an engaging wine tourism experience, making it an appealing destination for those looking to explore lesser-known, quality wine regions.

For those interested in discovering the diverse wine offerings and stunning landscapes few other destinations provide, the Willcox AVA invites you to experience its enchanting vinicultural allure firsthand.

What wines is this region known for? The Willcox AVA is known for producing high-quality Grenache, Syrah, Malvasia Bianca, and Sangiovese, leveraging its unique climate to craft distinctive and flavorful wines.

When is the best time to visit? The best time to visit the Willcox wine region is during the spring and fall, when the climate is mild, and vineyard activities are in full swing, allowing for a more engaging and comfortable wine-tasting experience.

Are there tasting rooms open to the public? Yes, several wineries in the Willcox AVA have tasting rooms open to the public, providing opportunities to sample the region's diverse wine offerings and learn about local viticulture directly from knowledgeable hosts.

What makes this region unique for wine lovers? The unique terroir of the Willcox AVA, characterized by its high elevation and cooler climate, contributes to the production of complex and expressive wines, making it a distinct choice for wine lovers seeking to explore emerging American wine regions.