With harvest season in full swing, the vineyards are buzzing with activity — grape stomps, harvest dinners, and special tastings that only happen once a year.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full wine road trip, Arizona’s wine country is calling, and September is hands down the best time to answer.
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Why September is Perfect for Arizona Wine Tasting
When the rest of the country is just starting to think about fall, Arizona’s vineyards are alive with harvest energy.
September marks the peak grape harvest, which means fresh releases, exclusive tastings, and events that give you a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking.
Some of the biggest highlights this month include the Sedona WineFest in Verde Valley, the Sonoita AVA Harvest Festival, and the Willcox Wine Festival.
These events combine tastings with music, food, and vineyard tours, making September feel more like a celebration than just a wine trip.
Add in the fact that many wineries host live music, food pairings, and festive gatherings this month, and you’ve got the ultimate excuse for a wine-tasting road trip.
Best Wine Tasting Spots in Arizona This September
Arizona has three main wine regions worth exploring: Verde Valley, Sonoita/Elgin, and Willcox.
Each has its own character — Verde Valley is known for its boutique wineries and artistic towns, Sonoita/Elgin offers sweeping grassland vineyards with bold reds, while Willcox produces some of Arizona’s most award-winning bottles.
If you want to make the most of your visit, follow the Verde Valley Wine Trail or the Sonoita Wine Trail, which connect several of these wineries into scenic driving routes.
Verde Valley Favorites
Page Springs Cellars
Nestled along Oak Creek, Page Springs Cellars is one of Arizona’s most beloved wineries.
September brings grape harvest tours, cozy tastings, and live music nights. Their outdoor deck is the perfect spot to sip a glass of Syrah while listening to the creek flow by.
Caduceus Cellars
Owned by musician Maynard James Keenan, this Jerome-based winery is all about bold blends and small-batch wines.
Visiting in September means catching their freshest pours and experiencing the funky, artistic vibe of Jerome, a former mining town turned wine haven.
Don’t miss their Malvasia Bianca — one of Arizona’s signature whites.
Arizona Stronghold Vineyards
Located in Cottonwood, this tasting room brings a lively energy, especially during harvest season. Their September lineup often includes exclusive pours you won’t find outside Arizona.
It’s a great place to mingle with fellow wine lovers and discover why Verde Valley is gaining national recognition.
Merkin Vineyards
Also connected to Maynard James Keenan, Merkin takes a farm-to-table approach with both wine and food.
September is a treat here — their seasonal menu pairs perfectly with newly released wines, making it a full dining and tasting experience.
Expect to see dishes highlighting Arizona produce like roasted chilies and artisan cheeses alongside Rhône-style reds.
Sonoita/Elgin Region Gems
Sonoita Vineyards
Arizona’s oldest commercial vineyard knows how to celebrate harvest season.
September weekends here often feature grape stomps and special tastings that bring out the true community feel of wine country.
The views from the hilltop tasting room stretch for miles and make every sip memorable.
Callaghan Vineyards
Known for producing complex, bold reds, Callaghan is a must-visit in September when cooler evenings enhance the flavors of their big-bodied wines.
If you’re into red blends that rival California or European bottles, this is your stop. Their Tempranillo and Petit Verdot are especially popular this time of year.
Dos Cabezas WineWorks
Based in Sonoita, Dos Cabezas is known for its experimental winemaking style and welcoming tasting room.
During September, you may get the chance to taste wines right as they’re being crafted from the season’s harvest — a rare and exciting opportunity.
Los Milics Vineyards
This relatively new vineyard has already made waves with its sleek, modern architecture and high-quality wines.
September adds a special charm as the vineyard comes alive with activity. The outdoor terrace offers one of the best views in southern Arizona wine country.
Pair your tasting with regional bites like Arizona grass-fed beef sliders or local goat cheese.
Willcox Standouts
Pillsbury Wine Company
Founded by filmmaker-turned-winemaker Sam Pillsbury, this vineyard in Willcox is known for its award-winning wines.
September is an especially good time to visit, as the tasting room buzzes with harvest celebrations. Don’t leave without trying their Rhône-style reds, which shine during the fall season.
Insider Tips for September Wine Tasting in Arizona
- Book early: Harvest events and tastings often sell out weeks in advance.
- Plan your ride: Consider wine shuttles, private tours, or a designated driver to fully enjoy your tastings without worry.
- Pair with food: Many wineries host harvest dinners or offer local farm-to-table menus in September — don’t miss out.
- Family-friendly stops: Some vineyards offer live music, food trucks, and wide-open lawns for kids to enjoy, making it fun for non-drinkers too.
- Budget tip: Tasting fees usually range from $15–$25 per person. Some wineries waive fees if you buy a bottle.
Pro Tip: Want the ultimate harvest experience? Look out for grape stomp events at Sonoita Vineyards or Page Springs Cellars — they’re fun, messy, and unforgettable.
Planning Your Arizona Wine Trip
If you’re heading north, the Verde Valley is perfect for a quick weekend escape from Phoenix or Flagstaff.
For a more immersive trip, consider a 2–3 day itinerary through Sonoita and Willcox — southern Arizona’s wine heartland.
Stay options range from boutique hotels in Jerome and Cottonwood to cozy bed-and-breakfasts in Sonoita.
Popular picks include The Tavern Hotel in Cottonwood, Sonoita Inn, and El Portal Sedona Hotel. Many vineyards also partner with local lodges or offer nearby accommodations.
Pair your wine trip with a scenic fall drive, a hot air balloon ride, or even a hike through Arizona’s high desert for a well-rounded getaway.
Conclusion
Arizona may not be the first place you think of when it comes to wine, but September proves why it deserves a spot on your wine-tasting bucket list.
From grape stomps and harvest dinners to stunning vineyard sunsets, this is the month when Arizona wine country truly shines.
Read More: Best Arizona Road Trips to National & State Parks in September
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