Colorado gives this grouping one of its clearest contrasts. Vineyards range from roughly 4,500 to more than 7,000 feet, with a short frost-free season and 25 to 30°F swings between day and night as grapes ripen. Grand Valley is warmer and sunnier, supporting Syrah, Viognier, Bordeaux grapes and Tempranillo. Cooler, shorter-season West Elks favors Riesling, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir.
In Idaho, microclimates in Snake River Valley and Lewis-Clark Valley can ripen late-maturing red grapes. New Mexico has no single fixed style, combining European varieties, hybrids and newer influences. Arizona's three AVAs include Willcox, its leading grape-producing area. On Maui, MauiWine makes sparkling grape wine from vines grown on the island's largest volcano.
Inside the region
5 named areas
Each guide keeps its place within Mountain & Southwest clear, with a direct route back to the map.
- 01ArizonaNo producers listed yetArizona's three AVAs are Willcox, Verde Valley and Sonoita. Willcox leads the state in grape production, and growers work with almost 80 varieties.
- 02ColoradoNo producers listed yetColorado's vineyards sit at high elevations with short frost-free seasons and marked day-to-night temperature swings. Its warmer Grand Valley and cooler West Elks AVAs favor different grape choices.
- 03HawaiiNo producers listed yetHawaii includes the listed appellation of Ulupalakua. On Maui, MauiWine makes sparkling grape wine from vines grown on the island's largest volcano.
- 04IdahoNo producers listed yetIdaho includes Snake River Valley, Lewis-Clark Valley and Eagle Foothills. Microclimates in the two valleys can ripen late-maturing red grapes, while Viognier can be lush and soft.
- 05New MexicoNo producers listed yetNew Mexico's AVAs are Middle Rio Grande Valley, Mimbres Valley and Mesilla Valley. High-altitude vineyards and a mix of European varieties, hybrids and newer influences mean there is no single regional style.