As the winter weather begins to solidify, there is nothing greater than sipping on something that warms you from the inside out. An exceptional glass of vino always seems to do the trick.

This November, Sonoita Vineyards will present its 11th annual festival celebrating the release of new wines and blessing of the new vintage from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m on Saturday, November13th.

As a child growing up in the Bay Area, Sonoma and Napa were but a couple hour drive away. There is just something about walking or running through a vineyard that is so whimsical and refreshing—and being within close proximity made the phenomenon a frequent one. For Tusconans, a local vino hotspot, Sonoita Vineyards, provides this same opportunity. With row upon row of stellar vines, Sonoita Vineyards is happy to share their beauty with vino lovers from all over. Their November Festival is a prime example of that.

The event is open to the public and the best part if that no reservations are required. Admission is $15.00 per person, which includes wine tasting with souvenir glass, food and wine pairings, conversation and barrel sampling with winemaker, vineyard tours, Sonoita cork magnet, live country western music and dancing.

Lunch may be purchased on-site from two local restaurants as well as wine-by-the glass. Horseback rides (on site) and trail ride packages (reservations needed) are available from Arizona Horseback Experience.

This is the third annual festival at Sonoita Vineyards for 2010. The Winery/Tasting Room is open daily from 10am-4pm. Private tours, tastings, luncheons or special events in the wineriy’s Vintage Room may be arranged.

Directions: Take Hwy 83 south from I-10. Sonoita Vineyards is located 3 miles south of Elgin at 290 Elgin-Canelo Road, Elgin, AZ

To Learn More

Sonoita Vineyards, 520.455.5893, www.sonoitavineyards.com.