Zion Vineyards

Southern Utah winery in Leeds exploring desert-grown reds, from Cabernet Sauvignon to Primitivo and Tempranillo

Best known for: Southern Utah reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Primitivo

Zion Vineyards in Leeds, Utah, gives Southern Utah wine-country travelers a reason to make room between national park stops. Founder Michael B. Jackson, Sr., and winemaker Rob Cec focus on the possibilities of wine in an arid landscape with limited rainfall and a long growing season. Cabernet Sauvignon, Primitivo, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah are particular strengths, with Tempranillo, Syrah and Grenache adding breadth to the red-wine selection.

The range extends beyond reds to Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Blanc and Malbec rosé. That variety makes this a useful stop for a group with different wine preferences, rather than a tasting built around a single grape. Zion Vineyards also participates in the Utah Wine Trail, giving the Leeds tasting room a place on a broader regional winery itinerary.

At 5 Hidden Valley Road, tastings cost $25 per person, and the entire establishment is restricted to adults 21 and older. The tasting room opens daily at noon, closing at 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Walk-ins are welcome; reservations are available for planned visits and larger groups. Parking sits directly in front of the tasting room.