Tasting Arizona Wines in Anthem, Arizona

by Paul & Carol
(Arizona)

On a recent Spring evening, we were invited to a wine tasting event featuring Arizona wines at the Persimmon Golf Club in Anthem, Arizona.

The Persimmon was a perfect spot to sample wine! Over 200 Anthem Country Club members and guests were seated on an outdoor patio overlooking the golf course and beautiful desert scenery, with the majestic Daisy Mountain as the backdrop. An appetizer table and live guitar music (we felt like we were listening to Carlos Santana!) added to the atmosphere.

Two of our favorite Arizona wineries were featured: Page Springs Cellars and Arizona Stronghold. A variety of wines were offered. The tasting pours were generous and the wine pourers were extremely knowledgeable; all making for a most pleasant experience. Both wineries produce their wine from grapes grown in Arizona. Most of the guests had never had wines produced in Arizona and they were pleasantly surprised! Some of the wines that we tasted were:

Page Spring’s 2009 Mule’s Mistake (36% Pinot Noir, 22% Grenache, 22% Zinfandel, 7 % Counoise, 7 % Syrah and 6 % Muscat) tasted light and smooth and was refreshing for a warm spring evening. The beautiful red color reflected in the sun. Subtle overtones of spice created a nice finish.

Their 2009 Vino de Familia Blanca was also a light wine with a floral fragrance and tastes of pineapple, honeysuckle and lemon. This 100 % Malvasia Blanca seemed to be a favorite white wine among the tasters; many commented on the refreshing flavor and crisp finish.

Arizona Stronghold’s 2009 Tazi, a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Malvasia had notes of herbs, almonds lemon, and pepper. This medium-weight wine finished with light and tangy acidity and fruit.

Their 2009 Mangus – Tuscan Blend was warm and full-bodied. It had a complexity of tastes, from tart raspberry to rustic herbs. Light spice and dry tannins gave this wine high marks among the guests that we were seated with.

We already knew how good Arizona wines are, and any of the wine tasters at this event who were doubtful about Arizona wines quickly became believers as evidenced by the wine sales that ensued. What a delightful evening!