One of the best wineries in Arizona also happens to be the longest-running. Sonoita Vineyards is tucked away in our state's vast, verdant wine country, and it has been offering a wide range of award-winning wines since 1983. Tour the 30 acres of vines, enjoy a wine tasting, and marvel at the astonishing scenery for a tasty and memorable outing. But, don't just take our word for it. Read on to learn more about this scenic spot in Arizona wine country.

Nestled amid the rolling hills and towering mountains of Sonoita Wine Country, Sonoita Vineyards is the oldest commercial vineyard and winery in Arizona.

This sprawling Arizona wine estate boasts over 30 acres of vines, and it has been delighting oenophiles with an array of award-winning vintages since 1983.

Up to 50 people can comfortably fit in the tasting room and gift shop - it's among the largest in the region. The tasting experience features a rotating selection of wines set up in a flight of four, offering a varied range of styles and undertones from Arizona wine country.

If you visit this and other Sonoita wineries during harvest season (late August-early September), you can watch the winemaking process, as the tasting room is in full view of the production area.

There are dozens of wines to choose from at any given time, with tasting notes ranging from "crisp and fruity" to "bold and complex." Perhaps you'll leave with a few bottles of your favorites from the tasting?

Right off the tasting room, a large portico and picnic area allow visitors to take in the beautiful surroundings in Sonoita, Arizona while enjoying a glass of wine. The patio is pet-friendly and very popular for weddings and other events, such as festivals. Private tours of the vineyard are available, as well.

Local food purveyors often set up shop to offer delicious eats that pair well with any of the Arizona wine you decide to try.

When you go, we think you'll also enjoy the various seasonal beverage offerings, such as wine slushes in the summer and mulled wine around the holidays.

Visit Sonoita Vineyards website or Facebook page for more information, including current tasting room hours and private tour fees.

Have you ever visited the first and oldest vineyard in Arizona? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the following comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article to learn about the very first McDonald's drive-thru in nearby Sierra Vista. If you're looking for more unique outing ideas, we suggest referring to Viator too.