Cottonwood Calling: 5 Wineries to Discover in Arizona's Verde Valley
Cottonwood, Ariz. - Nestled in the heart of the Verde Valley AVA, boasts a thriving wine scene with over two dozen wineries and tasting rooms. From established favorites to recent arrivals, Cottonwood offers a unique experience for every palate.
Here are five wineries not to miss on your Cottonwood wine adventure:
1. AZ Stronghold
This impressive tasting room, featuring a distinctive Southwestern aesthetic and vintage Native American portraits, welcomes visitors with a vast selection of wines. Founded in the late 2000s, AZ Stronghold has become a major Arizona winery, offering charcuterie boards and grilled skewers to complement their wines.
Must-try whites: Gewurztraminer, Viognier, Diya, Muscat
2. Page Springs Cellars
This scenic winery, complete with a bistro, art gallery, and live music, offers a delightful escape. Stroll through the grounds, sip wine on the vineyard veranda, or delve deeper with a viticulture tour or a rejuvenating yoga and massage experience at the nearby Sala.
Must-try whites: 2021 Rousanne, Vino del Barrio Bianca
3. Pillsbury Wine Company
Founded by former film director Sam Pillsbury, Pillsbury Wine Company champions sustainability and organic vegan wines. Their spacious Cottonwood tasting room resides in a historic 116-year-old home, offering a unique ambiance. Explore movie posters from Pillsbury's filmmaking career and capture a fun photo with the tub filled with wine corks. For an unforgettable experience, book a private dinner with Chef Abby, featuring a five-course meal paired with Pillsbury wines.
Must-try whites: The Inappropriate (Symphony blend), Malvasia, The Wild Child, "One Night Stand" Rosé
4. Cove Mesa
This family-owned winery focuses on terroir-driven wines crafted in the old-world style. Owners Emil and Cindy Molins not only create exceptional wines but also offer delightful bites in their tasting room, ranging from Cindy's signature French Onion Dip to pizzas.
Must-try whites: PicPoul Blanc, Cynthia's Cuvee, Malvasia Bianca
5. Chateau Tumbleweed
This cozy tasting room, run by a team of experienced winemakers, is a haven for white wine enthusiasts. Each bottle boasts captivating artwork, sometimes featuring playful depictions of people replaced by tumbleweeds.
Must-try whites: The Descendants, Miss Sandy Jones Rosé, Grenache Blanc, Malvasia Bianca, Dos Amigos PicPoul Blanc, Cimarron Vineyard Pic Poul
