Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona – Verde Valley Wineries

A Luxurious Spin Through Sedona’s Verde Valley Wineries

If you’re craving a relaxed, personalized way to explore Arizona’s burgeoning wine scene, this Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour might just be your ideal getaway. It offers the perfect blend of comfort, exclusive access, and local flavor — all wrapped in a five-hour package that takes you from Sedona’s scenic surroundings to the heart of Verde Valley’s vineyards. With a maximum group size of 14, this tour ensures an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for tasting, learning, and soaking up the stunning landscape.

One feature we especially love is the luxury transportation — think sleek Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit — which takes the pressure off any driver duties and allows everyone to relax and enjoy the views. Plus, the all-inclusive nature of this tour, covering tastings and lunch at a renowned vineyard, makes it a stress-free option that delivers great value for a special day out.

A possible consideration for some travelers is that this tour is best suited for those who appreciate wine and are comfortable with a structured itinerary. While flexibility is offered in the tastings, it’s still a scheduled experience, so it may not suit those seeking a totally spontaneous adventure. Overall, it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or even a business outing wanting a sophisticated yet laid-back afternoon exploring Arizona’s growing wine culture.

Key Points

• Private, intimate experience tailored to your group size and preferences
• Luxury transport ensures comfort and a relaxed atmosphere
• All tastings and lunch are included, giving you a hassle-free day
• Expert guides and staff, including knowledgeable sommeliers and friendly hosts
• Stunning scenery combined with quality wines from three distinct vineyards
• Ideal for wine lovers, couples, and small groups seeking a memorable day out

Exploring the Verde Valley Wineries: A Deep Dive

The charm of this private tour lies in its carefully curated itinerary, designed to showcase the best of Sedona’s nearby vineyards in a manner that’s both sophisticated and relaxed. Let’s break down what you can expect at each stop, what makes it special, and why it might be a perfect fit for your plans.

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Sedona or nearby major cities like Phoenix, roughly a 30-minute drive into Arizona’s wine country. The transport is not just practical but a treat — a sleek, spacious Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit that comfortably accommodates your group. The provision of water, snacks, and a Covid care kit shows attention to safety and comfort, setting the tone for a quality experience.

Stop 1: Alcantara Vineyards and Winery

Arriving at Alcantara Vineyards, you’ll immediately notice the scale — over 20,000 vines with 17 different varietals. This is a sizable operation with a broad selection, offering a fantastic introduction to the region’s wine options. Your guide and chauffeur will get you settled, and you’ll receive a tasting menu tailored to your preferences.

The included wine flight (one per person) is a highlight — a thoughtfully curated set of glasses that give you a real sense of the vineyard’s offerings. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful setting, emphasizing how the staff’s insights help you understand what makes each varietal unique. One reviewer, Tamra, called the experience “Outstanding,” noting the “luxury transportation, wineries, and lunch” as key highlights.

Stop 2: Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria

Next, you’ll visit Merkin Vineyards, a venue known for its Italian-inspired wines and farm-to-table ethos. Here, the focus is on local produce and homemade pasta and bread, made from Arizona heirloom wheat. The tasting flight at Merkin offers a chance to sample their signature wines, which are farmed and crafted on-site, adding a layer of authenticity.

The included lunch is more than just a meal — it’s an experience that pairs well with their wines. The menu is flexible, accommodating vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, which adds to the inclusive feel of the tour. Reviewers appreciate the fresh, farmed ingredients and the fact that the menu remains adaptable to seasonal offerings.

Stop 3: Oak Creek Canyon or Javelina Leap Vineyards

As the tour wraps up, you’ll head to Oak Creek Canyon or Javelina Leap Vineyards, depending on availability and crowds, especially on weekends. Expect this to be a lively spot — reviewers mention weekends can be busy — but the tasting room’s beautiful interior and outdoor seating make for a relaxed conclusion.

Here, your group can enjoy the last tasting flights, soaking in the final moments of your wine journey while enjoying views of the canyon or vineyard. The reviews highlight the “amazing tasting room” and the inside/outside seating options, which allow for a flexible, comfortable end to the day.

Return and Reflection

After your last tasting, the luxury transport will take you back to your original pickup location. The drive, roughly 30 minutes, can be a good time to reflect on the day, share favorites, or just enjoy the scenery.

Why this Tour Offers Great Value

With a price tag of $500 per person, this tour is on the higher end but offers substantial value. Think of it as an all-included experience — tastings, lunch, transportation, and a private guide — which would otherwise require multiple bookings or logistical planning. The fact that all tasting fees are included means no surprises, and the luxurious transport ensures comfort throughout.

The reviews reinforce the value: “The driver, luxury transportation, wineries, and lunch are fantastic,” says Tamra. The personal touch, with a private guide and tailored tastings, often makes this feel more like a day with friends than a typical group tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This private wine tour is best suited for those who appreciate good wine, value comfort, and prefer a personalized experience. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups seeking a relaxed but upscale outing, or even business groups wanting a classy activity.

If you enjoy learning about wine in an intimate setting, with knowledgeable guides and the flexibility to customize tastings, you’ll love the attention to detail here. The inclusion of lunch, the beautiful scenery, and the luxury transport all contribute to a memorable, stress-free day.

However, if you’re looking for a very spontaneous, unstructured adventure or prefer tasting at many more vineyards, this might feel a little limited. Still, for those seeking a curated, comfortable, and indulgent experience just outside Sedona, it’s a solid choice.

FAQs

What is included in this tour?
All wine tasting fees at three vineyards are included, along with a delicious lunch at Merkin Vineyards, luxury transportation, snacks, water, and a Covid care kit.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 5 hours, starting with pick-up, visits at three vineyards, lunch, and return to your hotel or location.

Can I customize the tastings?
Yes, the tastings are tailored to your preferences, and the guide is knowledgeable about the wines, helping you choose flights you’ll enjoy.

Is this tour suitable for groups of any size?
It’s designed for private groups of 3 to 6 people, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire is fine, but consider dress for the weather, especially if you plan to sit outside at the vineyards.

Are children allowed?
No, all guests must be 21 or older with valid ID, since it involves wine tastings.

To sum it up, this private wine tour offers a sophisticated yet relaxed way to explore Arizona’s emerging wine scene with a touch of luxury. The combination of expert guides, stunning scenery, and personalized tastings makes it a worthwhile choice for those who want a memorable, hassle-free day. Whether celebrating, connecting with friends, or just indulging in a new hobby, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just remember to book in advance — it’s popular for good reason!