No wonder then that Page Springs is becoming known throughout Arizona as a winemaking Mecca.  Within the past five years, no less than five wineries have opened their doors.

Since it typically takes five years for grapes to be ready for harvest, most of these vineyards are not yet producing their own wine.  In the meantime, they are purchasing grapes largely from vineyards in California.

Recently, we tagged along with some friends for the Page Springs Cellars & Vineyards "Gruel and Grog" wine tasting event.  For just $20, the event consisted of a hearty French style lunch of beef and chicken stews and four varieties of red wines to be sipped and enjoyed.

The owner/winemaker, Eric Glomski, gave some history about each wine while providing insights into winemaking and how to order wine through the mail. 

Eric apprenticed in the California wine industry for a number of years, ultimately serving as Co-Winemaker at David Bruce Winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains.  In 2003 he founded Page Springs Cellars & Vineyards.

Page Springs Cellars & Vineyards specializes in Rhone, France style red wines such as Syrah, Petit Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre.  The grapes they have planted in their vineyards are generally the same variety. 

According to Eric, the Verde Valley has a Mediterranean climate that is conducive to growing grapes that originated in Southern Rhone. 

Also says Eric, "Luckily, we also have up to a 40 degree fluctuation from day to night, which is critical for the development of flavors and other grape components that are critical to making fine wine."

At the "Gruel & Grog," we sat at a long picnic table with friends among gleaming steel wine vats and wooden casks in the cool Page Springs cellar (bring a sweater).  It was a great way to bond with friends, do something different and fun, and, of course, sip wine.

Oak casks	Wine vats	Page Springs Cellars & Vineyards Gift Shop