Carlson Creek Vineyard has always been a family effort. When Bob Carlson decided to combine his passions for fine wines and the Arizona desert, he enlisted the help of his wife and three children, who now collectively handle everything from winemaking to marketing duties. The Carlsons even worked together to personally plant the first seven acres of vines in the family's 160-acre vineyard. Meanwhile, at Carlson Creek's downtown tasting room, visitors can learn about the family's wines and all sorts of other Arizona wines, and even try a few. The lineup can include options such as a deep purple Syrah with bold berry flavors balanced by subtle spice, or a Chardonnay aged in neutral oak, which lends a rounded mouthfeel to the wine while maintaining its bright green apple and melon notes.