July 8, 2021
Uncork a Retreat To AZ Wine Country
Despite what people may think, Northern Arizona is home to more than rugged mountains and prickly cactus. It’s also home to multiple vineyards and tasting rooms that foster a thriving wine scene.
Yes, grapes grow in the desert. Quite well, actually. At Talking Rock, a private golf community in Prescott, Arizona, we’ll raise a glass to that without hesitation — because those vineyards are only a short drive from our doorstep.
Northern Arizona’s wineries are so close to Talking Rock they’re almost like an add-on amenity to living in the Prescott community. And once you’re there, there are so many ways to enjoy the vineyards — from kayaking and tasting tours to chauffeured tours in luxury SUVs or limos of select locations.
The Verde Valley, which is basically the geographic center of Arizona, offers fertile ground and mild weather for winemakers. And it’s no longer a secret. The wineries and vineyards that have established themselves in Cottonwood, Jerome, Camp Verde, Cornville, Page Springs, and Clarkdale are among some of the nation’s best and many have earned recognition for their products.
One winery, Caduceus Cellars, is even owned by a rock star.
All of it allows Talking Rock owners enjoying a Prescott retreat to plan day trips, or even short getaways, to a western wine country that embraces a sense of approachability both in attitude and proximity. Arizona wine country isn’t stuffy or pretentious. It, by all accounts, carries the easy-going spirit of the rest of the state which welcomes a “more the merrier” kind of energy.
Wine, apparently, has roots in the area thanks to Spanish settlers who planted and grew their own vines only to be sidestepped once Prohibition came along. Despite that hiatus, the tradition endured and has now flourished.
In fact, Northern Arizona’s wine country even has its own route along the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The trail, which runs through all of the area’s wine-making towns, includes 24 stops. While two dozen stops may be a bit much for a day trip, it would make for a fun, long weekend, a celebratory getaway, or a retreat just for the girls.
The best part about exploring the wineries near the Prescott community is the opportunity the adventure presents to learn about each vineyard’s personality, experience the unique tastes of each winery and potentially discover a new favorite. A well-supported community, Northern Arizona’s wineries also offer opportunities for education about the winemaking process and the region, as well as stunning event space for celebrations such as weddings, anniversaries, or festive gatherings.
At Talking Rock, it’s all just a short drive away, whether visits to wineries are broken up into several trips or taken all at once, with an extended stay. Regardless, the visits are always memorable and always worth it.
And it never hurts to bring a bottle or two home to Talking Rock to uncork and enjoy with friends after a round of golf or over a picturesque sunset.
To learn more about Talking Rock’s proximity to Arizona wine country, download our Wine Guide.