An Evening in Old Town

An Honest Look at “An Evening in Old Town” in Sedona

If you’re looking for a way to soak in Arizona’s vibrant local flavor without the hassle of planning every detail, “An Evening in Old Town” offered by Wine Tours of Sedona might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken this four-hour private excursion, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it offers a balanced blend of history, taste, and relaxation.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s a private tour, meaning you’ll enjoy a personalized atmosphere, away from crowded groups. Second, the inclusion of three wine tastings, a full dinner, and a take-home bottle makes it feel like a complete evening out.

However, at $555 per person, this isn’t your budget wine tour. It’s best suited for travelers who want a curated, high-quality experience with all logistics taken care of. If you’re someone who appreciates good wine, local cuisine, and a touch of Arizona’s historic charm, this tour might just be worth it.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Operates with only your party plus a guide, creating a relaxed, intimate vibe.
• All-Inclusive: Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, wine tastings, and a bottle to take home—no surprises.
• Cultural Charm: Focuses on Old Town Cottonwood, a place known for its architecture and lively atmosphere.
• Gourmet Dinner: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria, including an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a glass of wine.
• Wine Focus: Offers three tasting flights per person plus a bottle (up to $45), highlighting Arizona’s growing wine scene.
• Convenient Pickup: Offers pickup, making logistics easier for travelers.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Historic Old Town Cottonwood: The Heart of the Experience

Your journey begins in Old Town Cottonwood, a charming district filled with historic buildings and lively streets. This area is known for its blend of vintage architecture and modern vibrancy, making it a perfect backdrop for an evening of tasting and storytelling. As your guide walks you through, you’ll learn about the area’s history and why it remains a favorite for both locals and visitors.

This part of the tour is not just a walk; it’s an immersion into Arizona’s wine country, with numerous tasting rooms offering a glimpse into local vintages. The emphasis on “best of Arizona’s wine country” suggests you’ll taste a variety of wines, likely from different vineyards, showcasing the region’s diversity.

Wine Tastings: Savor the Flavors

The core of the tour revolves around three wine tasting flights per person. These flights give you the chance to sample a selection of wines, perhaps including reds, whites, and maybe some rosés or specialty blends. The inclusion of all entrance fees and tastings means you can enjoy these without worrying about extra charges.

In reviews, the focus on “excellent wine selection” indicates that the wines are thoughtfully curated, and the hosts are knowledgeable—a major plus if you’re keen on learning about Arizona wines. Remember, the tastings are limited to three flights, but that’s usually enough to give you a taste (pun intended) of what Arizona vineyards can produce.

Dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria: A Culinary Highlight

Following the tastings, you’ll sit down for a dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a multi-course experience with an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a glass of wine. The setting is described as charming, which should complement the food and elevate the evening.

Many reviews highlight the value of the included meal—you’re getting a full, well-rounded dining experience rather than just snacks. The wine served with dinner is included, so you’ll continue your tasting journey even as your palate enjoys the meal.

Take-Home Bottle: Remember the Night

Each guest receives a bottle of wine (up to $45), which adds a personal touch to the experience. It’s a thoughtful way to remember your evening and perhaps share your favorite Arizona vintage back home or with friends.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour is designed to operate rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather. With pickup offered, you won’t need to worry about transportation, which is especially helpful if you’re staying in Sedona or nearby. The private nature of the tour allows for a tailor-made experience, possibly with flexible timing based on your preferences.

The entire experience lasts around four hours, making it a manageable evening activity. The fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not sharing your experience with strangers, which can be a real plus for those seeking intimacy or celebrating a special occasion.

The Value of the Experience

At $555 per person, this is a premium-priced outing, but it’s worth considering what’s included. All meals, wine tastings, a take-home bottle, and digital photos mean you’re paying for a curated, hassle-free evening. If you’ve ever been on group tastings that felt hurried or impersonal, this private tour offers a different vibe—relaxed, educational, and indulgent.

The focus on authentic Arizona wines and the local culinary scene adds depth to a typical wine tasting. Instead of just visiting tasting rooms, you’re getting a guided narrative about the region, paired with a substantial meal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention and are willing to invest in a more curated, high-quality outing. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples celebrating a special occasion, or small groups looking for an intimate, well-organized evening.

If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, self-guided experience, this might feel a bit pricey. But for those seeking a seamless, educational, and indulgent taste of Arizona’s wine scene combined with local charm and excellent food, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

“An Evening in Old Town” offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Arizona’s wine culture, paired with a delicious dinner and a one-of-a-kind setting. The private format means you can enjoy a relaxed pace and personalized attention, making it a special way to spend an evening.

While the cost is on the higher side, the inclusion of three tastings, a full meal, and a take-home bottle provides good value for those looking for a memorable, hassle-free experience. It’s perfect for wine lovers, couples, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Arizona’s charming town life.

For those who enjoy excellent wine selection and friendly, knowledgeable guides, this tour stands out as a quality choice. Just remember — it’s a luxury experience, so if budget is a concern, there are more affordable options. But if you’re after a smooth, enjoyable night with good company and great wine, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for the forecast, whether it’s sun, rain, or chill.

How many people will be in my tour group?
Since it’s a private tour, only your party and the guide will participate, ensuring an intimate experience.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
You should advise any specific dietary needs at the time of booking, but the tour includes a full dinner, so accommodations can likely be managed.

What is included in the cost?
The price covers the guide, bottled water, dinner (with appetizer, entrée, dessert, and wine), three wine tasting flights, one bottle of wine (up to $45), and digital photos.

Can I bring additional wine or beverages?
Wines beyond the three tastings and the included bottle are not included in the price, so any extras would be at your own expense.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Vino di Sedona and ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, so transportation is taken care of, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves wine tasting and dinner, it may be better suited for adults.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a personalized, immersive experience to enjoy Arizona’s wine scene coupled with a delicious meal and scenic surroundings, this private “Evening in Old Town” tour could be a highlight of your trip. It offers a perfect mix of culture, taste, and comfort—ideal for those who want a memorable, crafted evening rather than just ticking off sightseeing boxes.