Rune Wines: A Visitor’s Guide to Sonoita’s Off-the-Grid Vineyard
Nestled in the heart of Sonoita’s wine country, Rune Wines offers a unique escape for wine lovers.
Known as Arizona’s only completely off-the-grid winery, Rune combines sustainability, local wines, and stunning scenery.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing day in Arizona, Rune is the perfect place to unwind with good wine and beautiful views.
Key Info on Rune Wines:
- 2.5 hours from Phoenix
- 1 hour from Tucson
- Usually open 11am – 5pm (and later Fridays & weekends)
- Features tastings, tapas, and indoor-outdoor spaces
Sonoita Wine Tours
If everyone in your group enjoys the tastings, it’s easier and safer to hire a driver to do all the navigating. Here are two options:
A Visit to Rune Wines
A visit to Rune Wines in Sonoita is a unique experience, blending a love for wine with an appreciation for the surrounding nature.
Location: 3969 AZ-82, Sonoita, AZ 85637
The winery and tasting room are right off Highway 82, surrounded by rolling hills and expansive skies. The winery’s open-air tasting room offers panoramic views of the high desert landscape.
Wine Tastings
Rune is known for its minimalist, open-concept tasting room. You’ll sip wines under shaded canopies or open skies.
- No reservations needed
- Tasting with souvenir glass: $20
- Tasting without glass: $15
Rune Wines specializes in small-batch, natural wines made with grapes sourced from local vineyards. Expect to try varietals that thrive in Arizona’s high-desert climate, including Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to guide you through their wine selection and answer any questions.
Sustainability at the Winery
Rune Wines was founded by winemaker James Callahan in 2014 with a bold vision: to create high-quality wines in harmony with nature.
What sets Rune apart is its off-the-grid operation. The winery is powered entirely by solar energy, demonstrating a deep commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Water conservation is another priority, with techniques that minimize waste while supporting the vineyard’s needs.
Rune also avoids chemical additives, letting the natural flavors of the grapes shine.
The Wines at Rune
Rune Wines specializes in small-batch, handcrafted wines that highlight the character of Arizona’s high desert. A few favorites include:
- Grenache: A bright, fruit-forward red with hints of spice.
- Tempranillo: A rich and earthy varietal perfect for bold flavors.
- White Blends: Aromatic and balanced, showcasing the versatility of the region’s grapes.
- Rosé: Crisp and refreshing, ideal for Sonoita’s sunny afternoons.
While the tasting experience is relaxed, the staff is passionate and knowledgeable, guiding you through each pour, sharing stories about the vineyard and winemaking process.
The Food at Rune
Rune offers delicious bites that pair beautifully with their wines.
You can check out their full menu ➡️ here.
I love the Mediterranean Mezze Platter (below) for $20.
The Sonoita Views
Rune’s outdoor tasting room is a standout feature. Set against the backdrop of rolling hills and desert vistas, it’s a space designed for relaxation and connection. The rustic, open-air setup lets you soak in the sunshine and fresh air while enjoying your wine.
You might catch a live music performance, a yoga session among the vines, or even one of their seasonal events like harvest celebrations.
Soil, Climate, and Vineyards in Sonoita
Sonoita’s high elevation—nearly 5,000 feet above sea level—creates a unique climate perfect for winemaking. The combination of sunny days, cool nights, and well-draining sandy and volcanic soils allows the grapes to develop complex flavors. The soil here is rich in minerals like limestone, which adds to the wines’ distinctive character.
The Best Time to Visit Sonoita
The most popular times to explore Rune and the other wineries are spring and fall, but they’re open and enjoyable year-round.
Spring (March-May)
- Days are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s°F. The vines are starting to sprout in spring.
Fall (September-November)
- Fall is harvest season, with comfortable temperatures, averaging 70-85°F. The vineyards and wineries host special events to celebrate harvest.
Summer (June-August)
- While Arizona summers are scorchers, Sonoita’s higher elevation makes it more comfortable, usually in the 80s°F.
Winter (December-February)
- Winter is the quietest time in Arizona wine country, though temperatures remain mild, ranging from 50-70°F.
Is Rune Wines Worth Visiting?
Arizona’s wine country in the Sonoita area is well worth visiting, for the scenic landscapes, unique wines, and charming small-town vibes.
The Sonoita AVA (American Viticultural Area) is Arizona’s first designated wine region.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual visitor, Rune offers a welcoming, unpretentious environment.
The sunsets alone are worth the trip, especially when enjoyed with a glass of locally crafted wine.
There are plenty of other vineyards and wineries in Sonoita and Elgin, AZ, including Los Milics and Dos Cabezas.
If you’re looking for more things to do in southern and eastern Arizona, I’d suggest visiting Kartchner Caverns, Bisbee, Lowell, Saguaro National Park, the San Xavier Mission, and Chiricahua National Monument (below).
