Arizona is not the first state that comes to mind when thinking about wine country, but it is home to some excellent vineyards and wineries, and the Original Jerome Winery is one of them.

The winery in the charming town of Jerome is a small winery that offers a unique and memorable wine-tasting experience. This family-owned and operated winery has been producing wines since 2001.

Jerome, Arizona

Arizona is home to some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, like the Grand Canyon and Sedona. However, some smaller towns off the beaten path have a unique charm that is often overlooked. One such town is Jerome, located about two hours north of Phoenix. Founded in 1876, it was once known as the “Wickedest Town in the West” due to its notorious reputation for gambling, prostitution, and general lawlessness. Today, it is a unique tourist and arts destination that offers a glimpse into its colorful past.

Jerome’s history is closely tied to mining, specifically copper mining. The town’s fortunes rose and fell with the success of the mines. At its peak, the town was home to over 15,000 people, but when the last mine closed in 1953, most residents left, and Jerome became one of America’s largest ghost towns. However, in the 1960s, artists and hippies discovered the town’s unique charm, and the rest is history.

Today, Jerome is a thriving tourist destination with a relaxed vibe and stunning Arizona vistas. Visitors can explore the town’s rich history by taking a stroll through its steep, winding streets and historic buildings, many of which have been preserved as part of a National Historic Landmark designation. The town’s most prominent feature is Cleopatra Hill, which rises 5,200 feet above sea level, earning Jerome the title of “America’s Most Vertical City.” From its lofty perch, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its history and stunning scenery, Jerome is known for its vibrant arts scene. The town is home to numerous galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can browse the unique jewelry pieces, pottery, and other artwork created by Jerome’s talented community of artists.

The history of the Original Jerome Winery

Photo credit: Original Jerome Winery

Arizona’s wine scene has been thriving for over 26 years, and The Original Jerome Winery has been instrumental in putting the state on the map for wine lovers. In 2001, founder John McLoughlin had the vision to plant vines in Arizona, and with his first vines planted, he believed that the state held the best-kept secret for wine success.

The Original Jerome Winery is in a historic building that was once the town’s telegraph office. The building’s original stone walls and hardwood floors create a charming, rustic atmosphere that perfectly complements the winery’s carefully crafted wines. The tasting room is cozy and intimate, with a long wooden bar and high-top tables where guests can sample the winery’s offerings.

Today, The Original Jerome Winery is the OG winery in the eclectic town of Jerome. Situated on over 150 acres of land, the winery produces exceptional wines that reflect the unique climate and soil of the region. Visitors can enjoy a range of smooth and dry wines, perfect for non-sweet wine drinkers, and fruit-forward sweet wines that appeal to those with a sweet tooth.

What sets The Original Jerome Winery apart is its commitment to showcasing the region’s diversity. Visitors can sample Arizona’s only flight of vintage ports or try wines from various grape varieties.

Thanks to the dedication and passion of pioneers like John McLoughlin, the success of The Original Jerome Winery has been a driving force behind Arizona’s thriving wine industry. Today, Arizona has become a hub for wine enthusiasts, and The Original Jerome Winery remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking to sample some of the state’s finest wines!

The vineyards of the Original Jerome Winery

Arizona’s wine scene may not be as well-known as other regions in the world, but it’s the best-kept secret for John McLoughlin, owner of Dragoon Mountain Vineyard. In 2001, he inspected every vine placed into the Arizona terroir.

Located in Willcox, Dragoon Mountain Vineyard is a unique growing region in Southeast Arizona located at 4300 feet. The stark contrast between hot desert days and cool valley nights shapes the region, making it one of the world’s most unique growing regions. Climate and soil studies show that this specific region in Willcox is similar to some of the most famous wine regions in the world, including

• Ribera Del Duero in Spain,
• Southeastern Australia,
• Southern France, and
• Paso Robles in California.

The vineyard is nestled in the ancient caldera and is both a test and testament to Arizona’s potential in winemaking. Original Jerome Winery features estate wines made from traditional grapes as well as exciting and unexpected varietals grown exclusively on the family’s vineyard.

One thing that sets Jerome Winery apart from other wineries is its commitment to using only Arizona-grown grapes. The winery sources its grapes from vineyards throughout the state, including the Verde Valley, Cochise County, and Willcox. By using only local grapes, Jerome Winery can produce wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of Arizona. Jerome Winery produces various wines, including reds, whites, and rosés.

In conclusion, John McLoughlin’s commitment to personally inspecting and walking through Dragoon Mountain Vineyard, combined with Jerome Winery’s commitment to using only Arizona-grown grapes, has resulted in the production of unique and top-quality wines that truly reflect the terroir of Arizona. It’s no wonder that Dragoon Mountain Vineyard and Jerome Winery have become a testament to Arizona’s wine potential!

The wine tasting at the Original Jerome Winery

Photo credit: Original Jerome Winery

• Chardonnay,
• Sauvignon Blanc,
• Viognier,
• Symphony,
• Cabernet Sauvignon,
• Charbono,
• Syrah
• Muscat,
• Sagrantino,
• Caladoc,
• Riesling
• Dolcetto,
• Malbeck,
• Petite Verdot,
• Pinotage,
• Primitivo,
• Sangiovese,
• Barbera,
• Blaufränkisch,
• Arinarnoa.

Located in Jerome, Arizona, the winery boasts 158 acres of vines, where a variety of exotic grapes are grown. The winery’s commitment to using only Arizona-grown grapes is reflected in their motto,

“AZGrown It’s more than a cliche, it is our life.”

The winery’s focus on locally sourced varieties ensures its wines are deeply rooted in the region’s terroir, showcasing its unique soils and climate.

Jerome Winery offers a range of wines, including deeply aged reds and carefully crafted whites. The winery is particularly proud of its Heritage Zinfandel and vintage ports flight, the state’s only one of its kind. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting of various wines while taking in the rustic charm of the building. The tasting room also features local artists’ art, providing visitors a unique cultural experience.

In addition to regular tastings, the winery hosts several special events throughout the year. Winemaker dinners allow guests to enjoy a multi-course meal paired with the winery’s wines. In contrast, vineyard tours allow visitors to explore the winery’s partner vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.

The winery’s location in Jerome adds to the charm of the wine experience. The town is steeped in history and culture, and visitors can explore the local shops, galleries, and restaurants while enjoying some fantastic wine. The combination of outstanding wines, beautiful scenery, and unique cultural experiences make Jerome Winery a must-visit destination for wine lovers and tourists alike.

What makes Arizona’s Wine Country unique?

Arizona’s wine country also stands out because of its diverse grape varieties. While some more common grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are grown in the region, unique varietals are not typically found in other wine regions. Examples include the Spanish Tempranillo and Grenache, Italian Sangiovese, and Rhone-style blends.

Another factor that makes Arizona’s wine country unique is its scenic beauty. The vineyards are in picturesque landscapes with rolling hills, rugged canyons, and stunning sunsets. Many wineries offer tastings and tours that allow visitors to appreciate the area’s natural beauty while enjoying the wine.

Finally, Arizona’s wine country is also unique because of the cultural experiences it offers. Many wineries feature live music, art galleries, and other cultural events celebrating the local community. Visitors can also explore nearby historical sites, Native American reservations, and other attractions that add to the richness of the region.

Arizona wine trail passport

If you’re an avid wine lover or a curious traveler seeking a unique adventure, then Arizona’s Wine Trail Passport is something you don’t want to miss. This exciting program, offered by Visit Arizona, allows you to explore the state’s flourishing wine scene while earning rewards along the way – and best of all, it’s all on your mobile device.

Signing up for the Arizona Wine Trail Passport is completely free and easy. All you need to do is join the program through your mobile device, and you’ll instantly receive a text message with all the information you need to get started. Unlike traditional wine trails that require carrying a physical passport, this program is entirely digital, making it easy to access and use on-the-go.

One of the most significant benefits of signing up for the Arizona Wine Trail Passport is the 10% discount offered by select wineries on bottle purchases. This can be a huge advantage if you’re planning to stock up on some of your favorite bottles or trying to find the perfect souvenir for loved ones back home.

But the rewards don’t stop there. By visiting different winery locations and checking in through the Arizona Wine Trail Passport, you’ll also have the chance to win exciting prizes such as wine gadgets, shirts, and even wine glasses. While there’s no guarantee that you’ll win a prize, it’s still a fun and unique way to explore the state’s wine culture and potentially take home some fantastic souvenirs.

In conclusion, the Arizona Wine Trail Passport is a fantastic way to discover the state’s wine trail while earning rewards along the way. Its ease of use and excellent benefits make it a must-try for enthusiasts and wine travelers alike. So, grab your mobile device, sign up for the program, and get ready to explore Arizona’s thrilling wine trail like never before.

Conclusion