Vineyard

House Mountain Vineyard of the Dancing Apache Ranch is a unique vineyard that sits just above a cold air drainage line and is nestled above the banks of Oak Creek. The grapes receive high desert heat and the hill-slopes see more constant wind and thus have less threat of fungal issues. Witihin the micro climate site lies a little planting of Grenache Noir, less than an acre, below the higher volcanic flanks of House Mountain which loom overhead. The soils are pure limestone and their glittering can be seen from afar. House Mountain Vineyard has begun converting to more organic farming practices as of this year, led by Elliot Stephens and the team at DA Ranch.

The Grapes

Grenache Noir grapes at House Mountain Vineyard on D.A. Ranch flourish in the high-desert terroir of the Verde Valley AVA near Cornville, Arizona. Planted on the scenic estate nestled between Oak Creek and House Mountain, the vines benefit from warm days, cool nights, and the region’s distinctive limestone-influenced soils at elevation. This variety produces small clusters with thick skins that develop bright red fruit character, soft tannins, and appealing notes of red berry, spice, and dried herbs, reflecting the unique conditions of northern Arizona’s wine country. The Grenache Noir blocks contribute vibrant, expressive fruit highly regarded by local winemakers in the Verde Valley.