Southern Arizona has two main areas for growing wine grapes: Willcox about an hour’s drive east of Tucson and Sonoita/Elgin less than an hour’s drive to the southeast. However, when people talk about Southern Arizona Wine Country, they’re usually referring to Sonoita and Elgin. Willcox wines are usually referred to as, well … “Willcox Wines” or “Willcox Wineries”.

Back in 2002, there were only 2 wineries in Sonoita and Elgin and frankly we were disappointed in the quality. Returning in 2011, the quality had generally improved, but not enough to justify the prices.

Kief Joshua Vineyards with Whetstone Mountains in background.

Kief Joshua Vineyards with Whetstone Mountains in background.

More recently, (Summer 2014) there are now 12 wineries and the quality has much improved. So much so that we brought home a couple of cases. The wineries in the area offer substantial variety and many are very good indeed!
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