The US state with its capital Phoenix is located in the extreme southwest of the USA. Catholic Spanish missionaries first came to the area in the 16th century. They planted the first vineyards in order to press Mass wine from them. The vineyards cover only about 200 hectares, most of which are located in the southeast around Tucson near the border with Mexico. Sonoita is classified as the only AVA area besides the State Appellation Arizona. Mainly European varieties are cultivated. The red wine varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Mourvèdre (Monastrell), Durif, Syrah, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese thrive particularly well on the reddish soil (see under Terra Rossa). The most important white wine varieties are Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. The best-known producers include Callaghan Vineyards, Colibri Vineyard and Winery, Dos Cabezas, Echo Canyon, Fort Bowie Vineyards and, the largest, Kokopelli.
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