Willcox Wine Festival | May 17-18, 2025

Photos from the Willcox Wine Festival

Sponsored by the Willcox Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture

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Photos from the Spring Wine Release Party hosted by Strive Vineyards.

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Willcox, Ariz. - Arizona’s premier wine region is set to host one of the most anticipated annual events: the Willcox Wine Country Spring Festival on May 17 and 18, 2025 at Historic Railroad Park in downtown Willcox. This two-day celebration of Arizona wine will bring together 13 wineries, more than 40 artisan and craft vendors, four live bands, and multiple food trucks in a vibrant showcase of the region’s wine culture and community spirit.

The festival offers guests the opportunity to sample award-winning wines, meet winemakers, enjoy live music, and shop from a variety of local vendors. The event draws hundreds of visitors from across the state and beyond, eager to explore the wines produced in the high desert of Cochise County—an American Viticultural Area (AVA) known for its elevation, unique soil, and exceptional grape-growing conditions.

Participating wineries include:

• Strive Vineyards

• Birds & Barrel Vineyards

• Bodega Pierce

• Carlson Creek Vineyard

• Golden Rule Vineyards

• Keeling Schaefer Vineyards

• Pillsbury Wine Company

• Zarpara Vineyard

• 1764 Vineyards

• Copper Horse Vineyard

• DA Vines Vineyard

• Page Springs

• Soaring Wines

One of the featured wineries is Strive Vineyards, owned by Desiree and Ryan Gerth, who left their careers in education and pharmacy to pursue winemaking. Originally from Wisconsin, the Gerths moved to Arizona for the weather and fell in love with the Willcox wine region during a weekend getaway. After a humble beginning with a home winemaking kit—and an undrinkable first batch—the couple committed to learning the craft. They purchased land in Willcox, where they now grow grapes, make wine, and raise their family. The vineyard was planted in 2018 and the tasting room was opened in 2021.

Adding to the weekend experience, a special 4 Course Winemaker’s Dinner will be held Saturday evening at the Willcox Community Center, featuring Wagyu beef from Bar X Bar Cattle Company. Guests will enjoy a curated meal with appetizers, a fresh salad, a variety of Wagyu cuts, side items, dessert, and perfectly paired wines.

With its charming atmosphere, delicious offerings, and tight-knit community of growers and makers, the Willcox Wine Country Spring Festival continues to make Willcox a leading destination for wine tourism in the Southwest.

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