What unique climate conditions exist in Arizona's wine regions like Verde Valley?

Contrary to popular belief, Arizona's wine regions, such as the Verde Valley where Page Springs Cellars is located, experience unique conditions like frost and snow, with vineyards situated at elevations between 3,500 and 5,500 feet.

How does terroir influence wine in Arizona according to Eric Glomski?

Eric Glomski highlights that terroir, encompassing factors like soil, sunlight, and elevation, transforms identical grape varietals, such as Syrah, into wines with distinct personalities based on their vineyard's specific ecological characters.

What legislative changes have impacted Arizona's winery growth?

A successful legislative reform in 2006, fought for by winemakers like Eric Glomski, allowed small Arizona wineries to sell directly to consumers and retailers, contributing to a significant increase in the state's winery count from eight to over 100.

Home / Business and Economy / Arizona Wine: Taste the Terroir

Arizona Wine: Taste the Terroir

15 Feb

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Summary

Arizona vineyards thrive at high elevations, experiencing frost and snow.
Winemaker Eric Glomski champions Arizona's unique terroirs.
Legislation changes spurred growth from 8 to over 100 Arizona wineries.

Eric Glomski, originally a restoration ecologist, has become a prominent figure in Arizona's wine industry. He founded Page Springs Cellars & Vineyards in the Verde Valley, focusing on how terroir—soil, elevation, and climate—influences wine. Glomski's vineyards are situated between 3,500 and 5,500 feet, experiencing conditions like frost and snow, contrary to the common desert perception.

His work emphasizes the distinct character that varying microclimates impart to grape varietals like Syrah. Glomski sees himself as an ambassador for Arizona, promoting its unique wine-growing potential. He was instrumental in fighting legislation in 2006 that threatened small wineries' direct sales, a victory that contributed to a surge in Arizona's winery count from eight to over 100 in the following decade.

Glomski believes Arizona's wine identity is still evolving, with potential for diverse regional themes. He anticipates the state's wine production will gain national recognition, with his own Alma del Suelo wines featured nationally. Continued modernization of regulations and investment, he predicts, will see Arizona's wine industry make significant waves in the coming years.

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