Arizona brings to mind dramatic desert landscapes dotted with cacti and Pueblo-style houses. It may be difficult to imagine vineyards and wineries thriving here—but that is exactly what has happened in the last couple decades, as proven by quality-focused producers like Arizona Stronghold Vineyards.

Founded in 2007, Arizona Stronghold Vineyards is family owned and currently the largest winery in the state. Its name takes inspiration from the Cochise Stronghold, an area in the nearby Coronado National Forest named after the mighty Apache chieftain Cochise, and pays homage to Arizona’s original inhabitants. The winery has a singular goal: to craft world-class wines that express the fierce, wildly beautiful nature of Arizona.

That is exactly what you’ll experience in Sedona Stronghold Sky Island Red. It’s crafted with grapes from the estate’s prized Bonita Springs Vineyard, which lies between the Winchester Mountains and Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona’s Willcox AVA. The vines grow at an elevation of 4,300 feet, which provides brilliant sunshine to ripen the fruit, as well as a wide diurnal temperature range (hot days, cool nights) that extends the growing season and helps preserve freshness in the grapes.

Sky Island Red blends Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Merlot, Malbec, Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah, Nebbiolo and Syrah. It overflows with ripe black fruit and dried herb flavors, along with mocha and spice notes imparted from aging in older (neutral) and new oak barrels. Rich and complex, yet balanced and fresh, it will pair well with equally flavorful red meats or pasta dishes.

Order your share today for an authentic taste of quality Arizona wine.