Best Sonoita Wineries
Self-Guided Arizona Wine Tour of the Best Sonoita Wineries, With Interactive Map
Arizona | Sonoita
Discover the Best Sonoita Wineries
Tucked in the high desert grasslands just an hour southeast of Tucson and about 2.5 hours from Phoenix, Sonoita, Arizona, is a wine lover’s dream hiding in plain sight. As Arizona’s first federally recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA)—established in 1984—Sonoita has quietly built a reputation for producing bold, expressive wines that reflect the rugged beauty and unique climate of the region.
Surrounded by four stunning mountain ranges—Santa Rita, Mustang, Whetstone, and Huachuca—this high-elevation wine region (ranging from 4,500 to 5,200 feet) offers cool temperatures, panoramic views, and a longer growing season ideal for developing complex, layered wines. You’ll find top grape varieties like Syrah, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Malvasia Bianca, Roussanne, and Viognier throughout the region.
But with beauty comes challenge—monsoon rains, hail, and frost are part of the growing cycle here. Winemakers in Sonoita must invest more time and care into their vines, resulting in wines that are truly handcrafted and vintage-specific, telling the story of each season. This dedication to quality is what sets apart the best Sonoita wineries.
Often referred to as the Sonoita-Elgin wine region, this small but vibrant area is home to around 20 wineries, all within a short drive from each other—making it perfect for a weekend Sonoita wine tour. With scenic tasting rooms, pet-friendly patios, and locally made wines, it’s no wonder that Arizona wine tasting has become one of the state’s top tourism draws. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of state, this region offers one of the most authentic and scenic wine tasting experiences in Arizona.
In fact, Wine Enthusiast recently named Sonoita one of five wine regions poised to become the next Napa Valley—and we couldn’t agree more.
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Best Sonita Wineries
Los Milics Vineyards
A Modern Masterpiece in Arizona Wine Country
As you approach Los Milics Vineyards, the sleek, contemporary architecture feels more like a modern art installation than a traditional winery. Set against the striking backdrop of the Mustang Mountains and surrounded by vines, this estate stands out as the most sophisticated and design-forward destination in the Sonoita/Elgin wine region.
The winery sits on a 20-acre estate vineyard, with an additional 50-acre vineyard located 20 miles east in Elfrida, Arizona. Across both properties, Los Milics grows an impressive variety of grapes—17 different varietals including Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Malvasia Bianca, Montepulciano, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Tannat, Tempranillo, Teroldego, and Vermentino, among others. Their wines range from crisp whites and vibrant rosés to bold reds.
The vineyards’ elevation—5,000 feet above sea level—provides ideal growing conditions. The significant diurnal temperature swings (warm days followed by cool nights) allow the grapes to ripen fully while retaining natural acidity, resulting in balanced, expressive wines.
Los Milics is the brainchild of winemaker Pavle Milic and co-owner Mo Garfinkle. Pavle, a veteran of the restaurant world with experience in New York, Napa Valley, and Arizona, has long championed Arizona wines. As co-founder of the acclaimed FnB Restaurant in Scottsdale, his Arizona-focused wine list earned a James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Beverage Program. With Los Milics, Pavle has moved from curator to creator, crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of Arizona.
His partner, Mo Garfinkle, brings a different kind of expertise. A former aviation consultant and wine enthusiast, Mo provides the legal and business acumen behind the venture. His passion for Arizona and forward-thinking approach have helped make Los Milics one of the state’s premier wine destinations.
But Los Milics is more than just a winery. It’s also home to a world-class dining experience. The on-site restaurant is led by Executive Chef Trevor Routman, whose resume includes work with James Beard Award-winning chefs and kitchens. His cooking style emphasizes seasonality, locally sourced ingredients, and strong relationships with Arizona farmers and ranchers.
Guests can enjoy the vineyard in a variety of ways. During the day, visitors can sample tasting flights, enjoy wines by the glass or bottle, and order chef-prepared shared plates. In the evening, the tasting room transforms into The Biscuit, a restaurant that complements the winery’s award-winning selections with a seasonal menu designed to elevate the wine experience.
For those seeking a fully immersive stay, Los Milics offers luxurious Vineyard Casitas—modern guesthouses with open designs, private patios, and sweeping views of the vines and surrounding mountains. It’s a place where you can stay, sip, and savor all in one unforgettable location.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 423 Upper Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (520) 455-5506
Website: losmilics.com
Rune Wines
Off-Grid Excellence in Arizona’s High Desert
When you drive past Rune Wines, it might appear rustic and unassuming—but don’t let that fool you. This off-the-beaten-path spot offers one of the coolest and most memorable tasting experiences in Sonoita, Arizona. Nestled in the high desert, Rune seamlessly blends wine, nature, and sustainability into something truly unique.
Rune Wines opened its Sonoita tasting room in 2015, just two years after releasing its first vintage in 2013. It holds the distinction of being the only solar-powered, completely off-grid tasting room and vineyard in Arizona—a perfect reflection of its commitment to sustainability and the land it inhabits.
The vision behind Rune Wines is James Callahan, owner and head winemaker. His journey began with PurVine Winery in Tempe, Arizona, and took him around the world to Washington, New Zealand, and California. Eventually, he returned to Arizona to work with Aridus Wine Company in Willcox and later Pillsbury Wine Company. In 2013, Callahan founded Rune Wines. Today, in addition to expanding Rune and its sister brand Brigand Wines, he consults for Deep Sky Vineyards and Autumn Sage Vineyards.
Rune Wine is more than just a winery—it’s a storybook told through wine. Each vintage features a distinctive label that captures the narrative of that year's terroir, challenges, and triumphs, giving each bottle a unique identity.
The flagship red, Wild Syrah, is a standout. It's a bold and expressive blend made using wild yeast and co-fermentations of Syrah with Viognier, Malvasia, and Roussanne, showcasing the winery’s creative approach to winemaking.
Tasting at Rune is refreshingly casual and immersive. Most tastings take place outside under a shaded canopy, offering stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges and high desert grasslands. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife or feel the stillness of the desert all around you. The space also includes walking trails, cozy seating areas, and occasional events featuring live music, curated food pairings, and fire pits—transforming the high desert into a magical nighttime escape.
Rune Wines isn’t just a stop—it’s an experience that captures the essence of Arizona winemaking in every glass.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 3969 AZ-82, Sonoita, AZ 85637
Phone: (520) 338-8823
Website: www.runewines.com
Arizona Hops and Vines
Where Creativity Flows as Freely as the Wine
Just down the road from Rune Wines, you'll find a completely different vibe at Arizona Hops and Vines—a colorful, quirky, and unforgettable wine destination in Sonoita. With an eclectic, hippie-inspired atmosphere, this winery is full of playful charm. Murals cover the buildings, heart-shaped sculptures dot the grounds, and quotes from Jack Kerouac and Frida Kahlo decorate the walls. It’s a place where art, laughter, and creativity are just as important as the wine.
There’s no shortage of outdoor seating, each area offering its own distinct personality and desert view. It’s casual, pet-friendly, family-friendly—and yes, there’s even a small petting zoo. This is a winery that embraces the fun side of winemaking and invites you to do the same.
Arizona Hops and Vines was dreamed up by sisters Shannon Zouzoulas and Megan Haller. After settling down and raising their families, the two often talked about opening a winery—but no one believed they’d actually do it. In 2007, Megan took the leap, volunteering at Sonoita Vineyards, becoming an assistant winemaker, and studying winemaking at UC Davis. Not long after, Shannon moved to Arizona to join her sister, and the dream officially took root.
They bought an old house on a hill, planted vines in the front yard, and with help from a few investors, began building their winery from the ground up. In 2011, they released their first vintage—a blend of estate and sourced grapes—and opened their tasting room in 2012.
No reservation is needed to visit, and there’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy. True to their irreverent style, the sisters offer unconventional food pairings like Cocoa Pebbles, cheese puffs, and flavored chips. They also host a variety of events, from live music and yoga to sound baths and drag shows. One of their biggest annual celebrations is the Great Crush Festival held during harvest season.
At Arizona Hops and Vines, things may be a little unconventional—but that’s exactly the point. It’s a place full of passion, laughter, and proof that wild dreams (and wild wines) really do come true.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 3450 AZ-82, Sonoita, AZ 85637
Phone: (301) 237-6556
Website: www.azhopsandvines.com
Dos Cabezas WineWorks
A Legacy of Vision and Innovation in Arizona Wine Country
Since 1995, Dos Cabezas WineWorks has been at the forefront of Arizona winemaking, producing distinctive wines from high-desert vineyards and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this rugged landscape. Originally founded in Kansas Settlement by the late Al Buhl—a visionary inspired by Arizona's emerging wine scene—Dos Cabezas began with an 80-acre vineyard and a dream. Buhl’s journey from hobby winemaker to industry pioneer began with a homemade wine that won a blue ribbon at the Arizona State Fair, igniting the passion that would lead to the creation of the winery.
The name Dos Cabezas—Spanish for "Two Heads"—comes from the dramatic twin peaks of the Dos Cabezas Mountains in Cochise County, near the site of their Cimarron Vineyard. Along with the Pronghorn Vineyard in Sonoita, these two estate vineyards now supply the winery with the high-quality fruit that defines its character.
In 2002, Todd Bostock, a Tucson native with a curiosity sparked by UC Davis viticulture classes, joined the winery as an apprentice. With no prior winemaking experience, he found himself thrown into the deep end when the winemaker suddenly left. Thanks to the mentorship of local legends like Kent Callaghan, Bostock dove headfirst into his craft, and within just a few years, he and his family purchased the winery. In 2006, they relocated Dos Cabezas to its current home in Sonoita.
Today, Dos Cabezas WineWorks is a beloved and innovative presence in Arizona’s wine community. Visitors to the Sonoita tasting room are treated to a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere—and some of the best wines in the state. The onsite restaurant serves artisan pizzas that perfectly pair with their wines, making for an inviting and flavorful experience whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout.
With a foundation rooted in passion, perseverance, and place, Dos Cabezas continues to honor its past while shaping the future of Arizona winemaking—one bottle at a time.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 3248 AZ-82, Sonoita, AZ 85637
Phone: (520) 455-5141
Website: www.doscabezas.com
Callaghan Vineyards
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation in Arizona Wine
Kent Callaghan is widely regarded as a pioneer and icon in the Arizona wine industry. Known for his innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of quality, he has played a critical role in shaping the future of winemaking in the Sonoita region—and in Arizona at large.
Kent planted Callaghan Vineyards in 1990, making it one of the earliest vineyards in the state. The first vintage came in 1991 using purchased fruit, followed by estate-grown wine in 1992. From the very beginning, his wines earned national recognition. Kent sent early vintages to renowned wine critic Robert Parker, who gave them strong reviews—marking the first time Arizona wine had received that level of acclaim. Over the years, Callaghan wines have been served at the White House four times, a testament to their consistent quality and growing reputation.
Through decades of trial, error, and resilience, Kent has learned to adapt to the region’s sometimes harsh climate. Weather challenges have forced him to replant numerous times, but he’s always remained committed to discovering which varieties best suit the land. While he initially planted Bordeaux varieties, he gradually shifted toward Mediterranean and Spanish grapes, which thrive better in the high-desert conditions. Today, Graciano, Mourvèdre, and Grenache are among his most successful plantings. In fact, in 1997, Kent became the first winemaker in Arizona to plant Mourvèdre—a variety now embraced by many across the state.
Callaghan Vineyards spans approximately 17 estate acres, and Kent is still hands-on, often seen working the vines himself. His adaptability and dedication to continual improvement have not only elevated his own wines but have also helped lift the entire Arizona wine industry.
Beyond the vineyard, Kent has been instrumental in supporting fellow winemakers. He’s known for generously sharing his knowledge, helping others avoid the costly mistakes he’s already faced. He served as President of the Arizona Wine Growers Association (AWGA), where he worked to strengthen wine tourism infrastructure and advocate for the industry as a whole. Without Kent’s vision and perseverance, many of the Arizona wineries we love today may not have succeeded.
Since 2001, Callaghan Vineyards has welcomed guests to their Sonoita tasting room, where visitors can enjoy estate-grown wines in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, sip among the vines, and experience a place that helped define Arizona wine from the very beginning.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 336 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (520) 455-5322
Website: www.callaghanvineyards.com
Salvatore Vineyards
A Trio of Labels, One Arizona Winemaking Vision
The Elgin tasting room is more than just a place to sample wine—it’s also the production facility for a trio of labels under the Domanico Family Wines umbrella: Salvatore Vineyards, Passion Cellars, and Cabal Cellars. Each brand offers a distinct personality, yet all reflect the winemaking philosophy of owner and head winemaker Jason Domanico.
Jason comes from a winemaking lineage, following in the footsteps of his grandfather Salvatore Ligammari, for whom Salvatore Vineyards is named. Honoring tradition while embracing innovation, Jason fuses Old World techniques with New World style, creating wines that are both balanced and expressive. Under the Salvatore and Passion Cellars labels, he has produced numerous award-winning wines, known for their complexity and refinement.
Visitors to the Elgin tasting room can explore all three labels, each with its own story. Cabal Cellars, in particular, stands out for its bold branding and storytelling—each label is tied to a unique narrative, and we highly recommend asking your tasting room host for the tale behind your favorite bottle.
In addition to Elgin, Domanico Family Wines has tasting rooms across Arizona, including locations in Willcox (on the vineyard), Bisbee, Tombstone, Scottsdale, and Jerome—making it easy to enjoy their wines no matter where you are in the state.
Whether you’re drawn to the heritage of Salvatore, the elegance of Passion, or the intrigue of Cabal, you’ll find something memorable at Domanico Family Wines.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 313 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (480) 483-5051
Website: passioncellars.com
Deep Sky Vineyard
Inspired by Argentina, Rooted in Arizona
Phil and Kim Asmundson, owners of Deep Sky Vineyard, first fell in love with the idea of opening a winery during a trip to Argentina in 2009 to celebrate Phil’s 50th birthday. Captivated by the bold Malbecs of the Uco Valley near Mendoza, they purchased a small vineyard there. But upon returning home to Arizona, they couldn’t help but notice the striking similarities between the high desert landscapes of Argentina and Southern Arizona—and that sparked a new dream: to bring their passion for Malbec and Rhône varietals home.
Soon after, they launched Deep Sky Vineyard in Arizona, planting their favorite varietals including Viognier, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Counoise, and of course, Malbec. Today, their winemaking is led by James Callahan, acclaimed owner of Rune Wines and a key figure in Arizona’s wine scene.
Deep Sky operates two vineyards:
Their Elgin vineyard, planted in 2017, surrounds a beautifully restored barn that now serves as their tasting room. It grows Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Carménère.
Their Wilcox vineyard produces Syrah, Petite Sirah, Malbec, Grenache, Viognier, Mourvèdre, and Counoise.
The Elgin tasting room offers a relaxed and scenic setting. With large windows framing vineyard views and outdoor seating nestled among the vines, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, unwind, and take in the serene high desert surroundings.
The wines themselves reflect the celestial inspiration behind the Deep Sky name. With artistic labels and names like Orbit, Constellation, and Black Hole, each bottle is both a visual and sensory journey.
From Argentina to Arizona, Deep Sky Vineyard is a testament to following your passion—and letting it take root under a new sky.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 124 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (520) 490-6170
Website: deepskyvineyard.com
Autumn Sage Winery
A Bold Expression of Arizona Terroir
Owned by Arizona natives Stephen and Nancy Basila, Autumn Sage Winery is a picturesque 30-acre estate that offers both exceptional wines and a serene, welcoming atmosphere. Located in the high desert, the estate features a mix of indoor and outdoor seating areas designed for relaxation and community gathering.
Guests can enjoy the scenery at Autumn Park or Sagrantino’s Patio, two inviting outdoor spaces where the winery regularly hosts live music and seasonal events. One of the estate’s signature features is a charming gazebo and dock overlooking a tranquil pond—a perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the surroundings with family, friends, and even furry companions, as the winery is proudly pet-friendly.
True to its name, Autumn Sage plants are found throughout the property, adding color and character to the landscape. But one of the most distinctive elements of the winery is its focus on a rare grape: Sagrantino.
Originally from Umbria, Italy, Sagrantino is a bold, deeply tannic red grape known for its intense dark fruit and structure. Autumn Sage is proud to be one of the largest producers of Sagrantino in the United States, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to try something unique and powerful.
The winemaking at Autumn Sage is led by James Callahan, owner of Rune Wines. His thoughtful approach brings out the best in the estate’s diverse varietals, including its standout Sagrantino.
With its beautiful setting, warm hospitality, and commitment to quality, Autumn Sage Winery offers a wine country experience that is both peaceful and unforgettable.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 90 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (602) 904-2120
Website: autumnsage.com
Flying Leap Vineyards & Distillery
Exceptional Wines from Arizona and Beyond
Flying Leap Vineyards was founded in 2010 by Air Force veterans and lifelong friends Mark Beres, Marc Moeller, and Tom Kitchens, who turned their shared passion for wine into a thriving winemaking and distilling enterprise. What began as a small vineyard in the Kansas Settlement near Willcox has grown into one of Arizona’s most respected and dynamic wine producers.
After planting their first vines in 2011, the team expanded in 2013 by acquiring Canelo Hills Winery in Elgin, establishing their production facility and flagship tasting room. Continued growth led to multiple vineyard expansions and, by 2016, the launch of a distillery and dedicated spirits tasting room.
Flying Leap’s wines are crafted by head winemaker Johnny Wood, an Oregon native whose background in artisan food production brings a detail-driven, creative approach to winemaking. His focus on balance and expression helps showcase the full character of the fruit—whether grown locally or sourced through their collaborative efforts.
While Flying Leap is deeply rooted in southern and southeastern Arizona, their wines are not made exclusively from Arizona fruit. The winery collaborates with the Hoffmann and Girotti families in Mendoza, Argentina, and in 2023, began sourcing fruit from the renowned Les Collines Vineyard in Walla Walla, Washington. This diverse sourcing means that in any tasting, you might be sampling wines that reflect terroir from Arizona, Argentina, or Washington.
Flying Leap produces 12,000 to 16,000 cases annually and operates four wine tasting rooms throughout Arizona—including locations in Elgin, Tucson, Tubac, and Prescott. Each offers guests a welcoming place to explore bold, hand-crafted wines and brandy-based spirits made with care and precision.
Wine Trail: Sonoita/Elgin Wine Trail
Address: 342 Elgin Rd, Elgin, AZ 85611
Phone: (888) 431-5777
Website: flyingleapvineyards.com
Final Thoughts
Explore the Best Sonoita Wineries
If you're searching for the best Arizona wine region, look no further than the Sonoita Wine Trail, a hidden gem just an hour from Tucson and 2.5 hours from Phoenix. As Arizona’s first federally recognized AVA, Sonoita is surrounded by four majestic mountain ranges and offers high-elevation vineyards, cool desert breezes, and a long growing season. This unique climate produces bold, complex wines from varietals like Syrah, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Viognier, and Malvasia Bianca. Despite weather challenges like hail and monsoons, the region’s winemakers are deeply committed to their craft, creating small-batch wines that reflect the land and vintage.
This guide explores the best Sonoita wineries—from iconic pioneers like Callaghan Vineyards and Dos Cabezas WineWorks, to design-forward estates like Los Milics Vineyards, and creative experiences at Rune Wines and Arizona Hops and Vines. With around 20 wineries close together, Sonoita is perfect for a weekend Sonoita wine tour, offering scenic tasting rooms, pet-friendly patios, and unforgettable wines. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to Arizona wine tasting, this is a destination where passion, place, and flavor come together in every glass.