From Explosions to Empty Nests: Arizona Winemakers Redefine the Valley of the Sun’s Vintage
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Arizona’s wine scene is flourishing, fueled by a new generation of vintners who traded conventional careers – and in one case, a spare bedroom explosion – for the art of winemaking. These four Arizona vineyards, each with a unique origin story, are not only crafting award-winning wines but also embodying a spirit of perseverance and fulfillment in the face of challenges.
A New Breed of Arizona Winemaker
The Valley of the Sun is witnessing a surge in locally produced wines,driven by passionate individuals who have embraced the craft with dedication and ingenuity. Beyond the bottles of Cabernet Franc and rosé, these winemakers share a common thread: a commitment to their craft and a desire to put Arizona on the map as a premier wine destination. As one winemaker aptly put it,”Each year and every day,try to find those things that help you improve yourself,your product,or your vineyard.”
Horse Winery: A Simple Philosophy, Award-Winning Results
Horse Winery rebounded strongly in 2024, earning a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Desfachelles’ philosophy is simple: “I enjoy the wine and I sell what I don’t drink.”
Strive Vineyards: From Home Experiment to Award Winner
The story of Strive Vineyards is one of serendipity and resilience. What began as a home winemaking experiment for Ryan and Desiree Gerth – a pharmacist and special education teacher, respectively – took an unexpected turn with an explosion in their spare bedroom. This incident, rather than deterring them, fueled their creativity and commitment.
The Gerths honed their skills through visits to wineries in Arizona and Napa Valley before launching Strive Vineyards.Their dedication paid off, culminating in the Best Cab Franc award at this year’s Arizona Wine Competition. Ryan Gerth envisions a future where Arizona wines gain wider recognition, stating, “The point is to expand and get Wilcox and Arizona in general on the map… It’s Arizona against the world.”
Omphalos Winery: An IT Professional’s Passion Project
Thomas Messier’s journey to winemaking began with a corporate transfer to Arizona and a newfound fascination with fermentation. Starting with experiments using fruits like tomatoes and apricots, Messier’s passion led him to enroll in Yavapai college’s Enology and Viticulture program.
After graduating in 2019, Messier and his wife established Omphalos winery, beginning production and tastings three years later.Their efforts were rewarded with the Governor’s Cup Arizona Wine award for Best in Show at this year’s Arizona Wine Competition. Messier’s guiding principle is straightforward: “You’re always striving to make a better wine and making things well… You want to make sure you get good wine and that people don’t grimace when they drink.”
1764 Vineyards: A Second Act in the Verde Valley
Bob and Jules Dixon exemplify the spirit of reinvention. After their youngest child left for college,the couple,now empty-nesters,discovered a shared passion for winemaking during a trip to the Verde Valley. In 2014,they sold their home,moved to Cottonwood,and Jules Dixon enrolled in Yavapai College’s Enology and Viticulture program.
1764 Vineyards was established in 2017, releasing its first wine, Deep Thought Syrah, in 2018. The winery’s success has been a family affair, with children and in-laws contributing to the operation. This collaborative spirit led to a Double Gold medal and the Governor’s Cup at last year’s San Francisco Chronicle wine Competition. “It’s just one of those things we knew where we wanted to get to,” Bob Dixon said,emphasizing the importance of family support.
These Arizona winemakers, through their diverse backgrounds and unwavering dedication, are proving that success is not merely a destination, but a continuous journey of improvement and passion.
