There is probably no better way to learn about a wine and its “terroir” than speaking with the vintner and cellar manager (often one in the same in small vineyards) and tasting their wines.  For the first time, you will have that unique opportunity, with many of the state’s vintners all brought together under one roof to showcase their bounty.

On November 22nd, the Arizona Wine Growers Association (www.arizonawine.org), is hosting its first ever Wine Growers Festival (www.azwinefestivalatthefarm.com) at the Farm at South Mountain in Phoenix.  This is a unique opportunity to meet many of the vintners face to face and learn about wine making techniques from the vineyard to the fermentation tanks to the barrel and bottle.  Educational seminars focusing upon wine tasting and wine:cuisine pairing and special walk-through exhibits will be offered and of course hundreds of local wines will be available for tasting.

In addition, special awards will be handed out to a number of wineries that recently competed in a statewide wine competition.  The judging was provided by a blinded panel (of which I was one).  The results of the competition will be announced at the Festival.  What I can tell you, generally, is that there are few wines that will really impress!