Regardless of whether you’re an oenophile, a Sunday sommelier, or perhaps just looking for a tannin-filled good time, Sonoita-Elgin is sure to accommodate your version of wine tasting.
Imagine this: rolling, grass-covered hills, cooler temps, picturesque Arizona landscapes, and all in all, a perfect bifurcation of cowboys and winos.
Photo courtesy of Autumn Sage Vineyards on Instagram
Sonoita has turned into a home away from home for me. We’ve basically got a window to Spain, Italy, and the south of France in our backyard without having to purchase a plane ticket; the perfect blend of good climate, striking views and sunsets, and plenty to do.
I was smitten with Sonoita when I first visited nearly a decade ago. Since then, it’s become a tradition to take a drive down with all of my out-of-town guests and celebrate birthdays and big events there. I even got married and held our reception at some of the wineries there in December 2021. And, when you’re as obsessed with your dog as I am with mine, it’s reassuring to have a place that welcomes pups with arms wide open.
Los Milics Vineyards (Photo by Logan Hildebrand)
About once a month, my husband, our dog Spaghetti, and I hop in the car and make the quick jaunt down to our version of paradise. With that said, though these suggestions are not perfect, they were lovingly curated.
I invite you to take a journey down to our beautiful Sonoita-Elgin wine country and have a look for yourself. However, before you go, embark on this virtual tour that’s been conveniently broken down into sections, depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.
I mean, we’re technically all here for the wine. These wineries offer great varietals for the more experienced palate. Did someone say “pinkies up?”
It should suffice it to say that Callaghan Vineyards has been honored by having its wine served at the White House four times, but it should also be noted that they’re a foundational winery for Sonoita, they’re incredibly dog-friendly, and they have a beautiful property worth checking out.
For more information, visit callaghanvineyards.com.
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I’m extremely biased as this is where our nuptials took place (10/10 recommend getting married at a winery). Pack a picnic to enjoy on their wraparound patio (they also have plenty of indoor seating) and play a round of bocce ball on their court.
For more information, visit deepskyvineyard.com.
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Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been growing grapes and producing wines in southern Arizona since 1995, and baby, it shows. The winery is supplied with distinctive, high-quality fruit from its two estate vineyards: Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita and Cimarron Vineyard in the Kansas Settlement. The sparkling Rose is one of my favorite offerings, but don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself.
For more information, visit doscabezas.com.
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Though a bit off the beaten path, Lightning Ridge certainly merits a visit the next time you’re in the area. Their estate wines are made from classic Italian varietals based on the family’s heritage. Sample wines such as Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano, Primitivo, Malvasia, and Muscat Canelli.
For more information, visit lightningridgecellars.com.
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Nestled at the foothills of the Mustang Mountains, it’s hard to not immediately fall in love with the vision that the Los Milics team has set forth for themselves. Once construction is complete, the Estate vineyard will boast a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, tasting room, and guest lodging. Honestly, even without the stunning property views and tasting spaces, the wine speaks for itself, and it’s saying “you’re going to want to take a bottle or 6 home”.
For more information, visit losmilicsvineyards.com.
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If I’m being honest, Rune could’ve had its own category. Rune is home to exceptional wines made by James Callahan, great food (its new kitchen is *chef’s kiss*), and breathtaking views.
Side note: Because of their new kitchen, dogs are still allowed at Rune, but can’t be inside the tasting room.
For more information, visit runewines.com.
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You’ll find that many, if not all of the wineries, are picturesque in their own way. The spots listed below don’t require any filters and are known for their parties.
The outdoor space at Autumn Sage boasts a classic gazebo and dock overlying a fishing pond which makes the perfect backdrop for any and all photos. Oh, and it’s hard to ignore the majestic mountain ranges in every direction with rolling hills that turn green during monsoon. There are even autumn sage plants sprinkled throughout the property. Truly a ‘grammable vineyard.
For more information, visit autumnsage.com.
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The fabulous gals at AZ Hops & Vines know how to have a good time. They have a petting zoo complete with donkeys, geese, and dogs. Many thoughtful touches have been added to the property such as The Wishing Barrel, the Famous Green Door, and quotes from Jack Kerouac and Frida Kahlo painted on the walls.
For more information, visit azhopsandvines.com.
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Charron Vineyards is a great way to start or end your wine trip because they’re basically the halfway point between Tucson and Sonoita/Elgin (it’s basically a 25ish-min drive from downtown Tucson) and are usually open an hour or two later than the other wineries. Hang out on their patio and enjoy stunning views of the Santa Rita mountains and their vines.
For more information, visit charronvineyards.com.
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What do Sonoita Vineyards and Bob Ross’ Joy of Painting have in common? They both debuted in 1983. That’s right, Sonoita Vineyards is the oldest commercial vineyard and winery in Arizona. With all that experience, it’s no wonder they know how to throw some awesome parties such as their Harvest Fest, stargazing parties, new release festivals, Halloween wine, chocolate pairing, and more.
For more information, visit sonoitavineyards.com.
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The wineries listed below are relatively new to the Sonoita-Elgin winery scene. Please give them a warm, Tucson Foodie welcome.
In 2014, Pavle and Ita Milic launched their Los Milics wine label, with the help of Kelly and Todd Bostock of Dos Cabezas WineWorks, and mid-last year opened their tasting room to the public. Also, they’ve got major expansion plans with their tasting room, casitas for overnight stays, and a restaurant.
PRICING: $$ $18 a flight: Includes a souvenir crystal glass and four two-ounce portions ($15 for a stemless plastic glass) $12 a glass (BYOG)
For more information, visit losmilicsvineyards.com.
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Salvatore Vineyards and Passion Cellars opened up their tasting room in Sonoita/Elgin in February 2022. They also have locations throughout Southern Arizona including Bisbee, Elgin, Jerome, Scottsdale, Tombstone, and Wilcox. You can give them a taste wherever you go.
For more information, visit passioncellars.com.
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Sunset Ride Wine opened in March 2022 and is already successfully embedding itself into the wine community. They feature their own horses on their label, too. Be sure to check them out because they’re one of the first stops on your way into Sonoita (coming from Tucson). Bring your pups in, too.
For more information, visit sunsetride.com.
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Vino Stache is open by appointment only, but what’s cool is that you get to spend some time with the winemaker herself, Brooke Ide. What’s even cooler is that each year Vino Stache Winery selects a local Arizona-based charity to give back a dollar per bottle sold. Drink good wine and do good.
For more information, visit vinostache.com.
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For the most part, all of the wineries in Sonoita-Elgin are dog-friendly. These wineries go the extra mile in ensuring that your four-legged friends feel welcome with branded dog treats, puppy yoga, gourmet dog food, and all the acreage a pup can dream of.
Humans and animals alike will appreciate the manicured landscape at Autumn Sage. They even have dog bones available for purchase in the tasting room and the delightful treats were created by Happy Tails Barkery, a local dog-loving business.
For more information, visit autumnsage.com.
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Walking into Hannah’s Hill Vineyard is like walking into an old friend’s house who also happens to make their own wine. They’re a truly family-owned and operated vineyard. Symeron and Opal, the resident white German Shepherds, are the welcoming committee and are there to give you a tour for some belly rubs in return. You’ll also find cute souvenirs for purchase and they’re always collecting donations to the Arizona White German Shepherd Rescue.
For more information, visit hannahshill.com.
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Rancho Rossa Vineyards is arguably the most dog-friendly winery in all of Sonoita/Elgin. They have three wine dogs: Big Henry David, Leopold Cassidy, and Little Arthur Jackson. They serve a dog menu on the weekend and they occasionally host puppy yoga.
Plus, if you bring in any of the below items, you’ll get a complimentary $12 tasting:
Important Rule: One complimentary tasting per couple or two per group.
Because they have no operational or admin costs for their non-profit Rescued Hearts Cellars, every penny goes to helping Arizona animal rescues with emergency veterinary bills. Check out their non-profit here.
For more information, visit ranchorossa.com.
Photo courtesy of Rancho Rossa Vineyards on Instagram
If a winery has its own petting zoo, chances are your kids — furry or not — are welcome. They recently hosted “Dog Day” with games, food, drinks, prizes, an auction, and live music to raise money for Passion4Paws. They do recommend keeping your pets leashed because nothing ruins your relaxing wine time like having to chase your pet across three miles of open fields.
For more information, visit azhopsandvines.com.
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Twisted Union offers great wine, views, and seating for your pups to fulfill a great day of wine tasting. Additionally, they’ve got two pet-friendly guest suites you can book so that you can wake up among the vines.
For more information, visit twistedunionwinecompany.com.
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The wineries listed below feature various alternatives to our fermented grape friend.
If you’re looking for award-winning distilled spirits, I encourage you to check out their rum. It was voted “The World’s Best Rum” in 2018 and 2019 at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and it was the only American rum to ever win gold at the International Wine and Spirit Competition. If rum isn’t your thing, their Bourbons and Gins are also critically acclaimed.
For more information, visit elginwd.com.
Photo courtesy of Elgin Winery & Distillery on Instagram
Flying Leap’s distillery tasting room is definitely worth a visit. Chic with large viewing windows, you can see the stills and watch the production team in action while sampling their spirits. Flying Leap’s distilling emphasis is on grape-based spirits, including vodka, brandy, grappa, and an assortment of delicious infused liqueurs made from eau-de-vie.
For more information, visit flyingleapvineyards.com.
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I encourage you to not shy away from tasting through a flight of mead; there’s something for everyone. The Space Cowboy happens to be a particular favorite of mine as are the seasonal slushies. The Meading Room also has an electronic vehicle charger outside.
For more information, visit themeadingroom.com.
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Wilhelm serves Glühwein and sangria, which I’m absolutely including as an alternative in this guide because it’s so dang good. You’ll find something for everyone at Wilhelm Family Vineyards. If you’re unable to make the drive, you can sample their wines at their Terra Alta Bistro located on Kolb, near Sunrise.
For more information, visit wilhelmvineyards.com.
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A day of day drinking definitely calls for food. If you’re looking for more than the ever-popular charcuterie pairings, these wineries have you covered with sustenance to sop up the wine.
The way a slice of Pronghorn Pizza tastes after a day of wine tasting is a religious experience. Pronghorn Pizza sources all local ingredients and creates literal dough magic. Their Brava happens to be a personal favorite, but I recommend working your way down their menu and trying their revolving seasonal hits.
For more information, visit pronghorn.pizza.
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Rune recently launched its food program. Now you can enjoy excellent Rune wine with excellent Rune food such as sandwiches, small plates, charcuterie, and even ice cream.
For more information, visit runewines.com.
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Brea’s Bakery + Bistro, located at the vineyard, serves up things like charcuterie, local goat cheese, and hummus paired with the delicious homemade crackers at their tasting room. Oh, but there’s more on the menu like freshly baked bread, pies, soups, sandwiches, and even dog-friendly menu items.
For more information, visit breasbakery.com.
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Addie Ibarra, native Tucsonan, is a fierce lover of adventure, travels, and Star Wars. Her love of food and drink takes her to places far, far away.
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07sepAll Day 11 Bawker Bawker 2-year anniversary, 5-day celebration Always look on the bright cider life (All Day) Arizona Bawker Bawker Cider
Bawker Bawker turns 2 and to celebrate they're throwing a 5-day celebration! Their "sweet" pairing of Hub Sorbet & Bawker Cider will feature fun, fabulous pairings: Mission Peach Cider w/ Stone
Bawker Bawker turns 2 and to celebrate they’re throwing a 5-day celebration!
Their “sweet” pairing of Hub Sorbet & Bawker Cider will feature fun, fabulous pairings:
september 7 (Wednesday) - 11 (Sunday) Arizona
09sep6:00 pm Taco Grub Fest 2022 6:00 pm Arizona Hop Street Lounge
Taco Grub Fest 2022 is going down at Hop Street Lounge! Hosted in collaboration with Zaidas Food, join inside of their taproom where some of Tucson’s favorite local breweries
Taco Grub Fest 2022 is going down at Hop Street Lounge!
Hosted in collaboration with Zaidas Food, join inside of their taproom where some of Tucson’s favorite local breweries compete to eat the most tacos!
The best part? After the breweries compete, YOU get a chance at taking the title! Also on the agenda:
The fun kicks off at 6pm. Don’t miss it!
09sep10:00 pm Movie Night at Nightjar Cinema Vendetta 10:00 pm Arizona The Coronet
Every Friday is Movie Night at Nightjar!The first film of every month will be from their Cinema Vendetta series, a slightly more kinetic melange of Kung Fu, Road Movies, Drive-In
Every Friday is Movie Night at Nightjar!The first film of every month will be from their Cinema Vendetta series, a slightly more kinetic melange of Kung Fu, Road Movies, Drive-In Exemplar and unconventional Shoot ‘Em Ups.
Join this (First) Friday, 8/5 at 10pm for Black Mask (1996).
View the upcoming movies calendar at https://nightjartucson.com/.
30sep(sep 30)3:00 pm 02oct(oct 2)6:00 pm Dillinger's 5th Annual Oktoberfest! (september 30) 3:00 pm - (october 2) 6:00 pm Arizona Dillinger Brewing Company
Dillinger's 5th Annual Oktoberfest is back and this time at both taproom locations! They'll have all the goods including... Beer cheese & pretzels, brats from 4th Ave Deli, their yearly
Dillinger’s 5th Annual Oktoberfest is back and this time at both taproom locations! They’ll have all the goods including… Beer cheese & pretzels, brats from 4th Ave Deli, their yearly stein deal, mug club signups, and more!
Save the date and more details will follow! Follow their Facebook event page for upcoming details.
September 30 (Friday) 3:00 pm - October 2 (Sunday) 6:00 pm Arizona
01oct2:00 pm 6:00 pm 1st Annual Tucson Oktoberfest 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm Arizona The Hut Tucson
The Active 20-30 Club of Tucson welcomes you to Oktoberfest! A little slice of Germany, right here in the Old Pueblo. This year they're partnering with More Than a
The Active 20-30 Club of Tucson welcomes you to Oktoberfest! A little slice of Germany, right here in the Old Pueblo. This year they’re partnering with More Than a Bed for the event as the selected beneficiary. All proceeds from this event will go towards supporting children in foster, kinship and adoptive families, so you can feel good while having a great time.
Purchase your tickets here: https://oktoberfestaz.com/tickets/
(Saturday) 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm Arizona
07oct10:00 pm Movie Night at Nightjar Cinema Vendetta 10:00 pm Arizona The Coronet
Every Friday is Movie Night at Nightjar!The first film of every month will be from their Cinema Vendetta series, a slightly more kinetic melange of Kung Fu, Road Movies, Drive-In
Every Friday is Movie Night at Nightjar!The first film of every month will be from their Cinema Vendetta series, a slightly more kinetic melange of Kung Fu, Road Movies, Drive-In Exemplar and unconventional Shoot ‘Em Ups.
Join this (First) Friday, 8/5 at 10pm for Black Mask (1996).
View the upcoming movies calendar at https://nightjartucson.com/.