Description

Birds and Barrels Vineyards Overview

Birds and Barrels Vineyards, nestled in the heart of Willcox, Arizona, is a family-owned establishment dedicated to creating ultra-premium Arizona wines. Founded in 2015 by Chad and Monica Preston, the vineyard emphasizes traditional winemaking methods combined with a meticulous focus on quality.

History and Background

Birds and Barrels was established with the vision of producing only the finest hand-crafted wines, a throwback to a time before mass-production became the norm. The Prestons, along with their family, manage every facet of the vineyard, from cultivation and hand harvesting of the grapes to the intricate processes of pressing and crafting the wine itself.

Vineyard Details and Wine Production

Situated amidst the picturesque landscape of Willcox, Arizona, Birds and Barrels Vineyards benefits from the distinctive terroir of Arizona’s second American Viticulture Area (AVA), recognized in October 2016. The vineyard thrives due to the area's unique climate, featuring cool nights and warm days, in conjunction with sandy loam soil ideal for viticulture. This combination yields complex and flavorful wines, with over 75% of Arizona’s wine grapes originating from the Willcox AVA.

Visitor Information and Experiences

Birds and Barrels not only offers an exceptional range of wines but also provides a welcoming environment for visitors:

• Tasting Room (100 N Railroad Ave., Willcox, AZ 85643): Open Thursday to Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM.
• Vineyard Visits (5000 E Arzberger Rd., Willcox, AZ 85643): Available Friday to Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM, Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM, and by appointment from Monday to Thursday.

Visitors can enjoy the serene views of the surrounding mountains and fields, complementing their wine tasting experience. The area’s small-town charm and various tourist opportunities enhance the overall visit.

Notable Wines and Specialties

Birds and Barrels Vineyards is known for its dedication to small-batch, single-barrel wines, which are often reserved exclusively for wine club members. The vineyard prides itself on the variety and quality of its wines, influenced heavily by the local terroir.

Wine Club and Membership Benefits

• Membership Perks:
  • No joining fee and 20% off on all wines
  • Minimum order of one case per year
  • Shipments twice a year in spring and fall
  • Exclusive member-only events, including food and new release tastings
  • Advanced access to new releases, library wines, and special batches

Being a 'Founder' in the wine club means becoming a strategic partner, helping guide the winery in areas like marketing, business development, and product feedback, emphasizing the community-driven approach of Birds and Barrels.

Contact Information and Location

Birds and Barrels Vineyards can be reached for inquiries and appointment bookings at two primary locations for tastings and vineyard visits detailed above in the visitor information section.

In conclusion, Birds and Barrels Vineyards represents a blend of traditional winemaking techniques and family-centric values, situated in a unique and scenic location conducive to producing distinctive and praiseworthy Arizona wines.