HERITAGE
D.A.Ranch is a historic Verde Valley ranch with a rich heritage dating back to 1876. When the first settlers arrived in the Verde Valley, a pioneer woman named Gertrude Gates established the D.A.Ranch. Referred to as the “Delta Alpha Ranch,” the property was homesteaded as a working ranch featuring Jersey cattle.
Over 100 years later, the Petznick family arrived at D.A.Ranch. With their own legacy with the Arizona cattle industry and deep understanding of agriculture, the family restored and developed the ranch into what it is today.
D.A.RANCH TODAY
D.A.Ranch features well-farmed estate vineyards, high-quality Arizona wine experiences in an expansive indoor and outdoor tasting setting, and stunning outdoor spaces that serve as a premier venue for weddings and events.
THE HISTORY
1876
The Delta Alpha Ranch, now known as the D.A.Ranch, was first homesteaded as a cattle ranch in the late 1800’s by Andrew Downing, George Moore, and Randolph Willard.
1910
The 360-acre ranch was purchased by Gertrude Gates. Visitors referred to it as the Gates Ranch. She established the Delta Alpha (DA) cattle brand, ranching Jersey cattle. Gertrude built a proper home with an elegant library built from sandstone. There were a few buildings on the property left behind by the original homesteaders.
1941
Gertrude Gates sold the ranch to Vesto Slipher, a recognized astronomer and director of the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff from 1926 to 1952. By this time, the historic Red Barn was reportedly 100 years old.
2002
In 2002, the late Earl Petznick Sr., Pat Petznick, their children Earl Petznick Jr. and Olen Petznick, and their wives Melinda Petznick and Belle Petznick acquired the first parcel of D.A.Ranch as a family retreat. In the mid-20th century, the property had been sub-divided into multiple parcels. In 2003 and 2005, two B-Cross Ranch parcels were acquired. Lastly, in 2011, the Bryson family’s parcel was purchased, unifying the entire D.A.Ranch property.
Now
Over the years, more acres of vineyards were planted. Today, vineyard manager Elliot Stephens meticulously farms Syrah, Petite Sirah, Seyval Blanc, Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Malvasia Bianca. In 2023, Vermentino and Greco di Tufo were newly planted.
“Wine is the answer. I just don’t remember the question.”
-Unknown
