Sedona & Verde Valley Private Wine Tour with Lunch

Planning a day in Sedona that combines wine, craft beers, delicious food, and stunning scenery might sound ambitious, but this private tour delivers just that. With a carefully curated itinerary, expert guides, and the flexibility to suit your taste, it’s an experience designed for those who want to explore the Verde Valley’s best offerings without feeling rushed. The tour, which lasts around five hours, covers everything from vineyard tastings to artisan chocolates, all in an intimate, private setting.

What we particularly like about this tour is its personalized approach. Whether your interest lies in fine wines, craft beers, or gourmet bites, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences. Plus, the guide, known affectionately as Juan in reviews, is praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the entire trip both educational and fun. One possible consideration is the cost—at $555 per person, it’s an investment, but the inclusion of private transportation, multiple tastings, and a meal make it a strong value for a bespoke experience.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, curious foodies, or groups seeking a flexible, all-encompassing day in Sedona’s scenic surroundings. It’s ideal for those who appreciate quality over quantity and want a private, curated experience rather than a large-group tour. Now, let’s dive into the details that make this adventure worth considering.

• Highly Personalized: The tour can be tailored to meet your specific tastes, whether wine, beer, or food.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and praised for making the experience memorable.
• Diverse Stops: From vineyards to micro-breweries and artisan chocolate shops, there’s something for all.
• Gourmet Lunch: A delicious, farm-to-table lunch at Merkin Osteria or other local spots is included, with wine or beer pairing options.
• Flexible Pace: You’re free to enjoy each stop at your own speed, making for a relaxed, stress-free day.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes bottled water, snacks, multiple tastings, and private transportation, providing excellent value.

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience in Sedona

The tour begins at Vino di Sedona on AZ-89A, a central location that makes it easy to meet your guide and start your day without fuss. From the moment you’re picked up, the vibe is relaxed but professional, setting the tone for a day you’ll want to savor.

Alcantara Vineyards and Winery: A VIP Introduction to Local Wines

Your first stop is Alcantara Vineyards and Winery, a highlight for many. Here, you’ll enjoy a VIP wine tasting with a souvenir glass—an excellent keepsake. The tasting typically includes a variety of their wines, and if time allows, you might get a behind-the-scenes peek into the barrel room or the onsite chapel, adding a touch of serenity and insight into local wine production. The chance to explore the vineyard’s scenic location by the Verde River also adds to the appeal.

Guests have mentioned that their guide, Juan, went above and beyond, offering a walking tour of the property and sharing stories about how the winery operates. One reviewer notes, “Juan was absolutely amazing! He made the stops fun and engaging, and the vineyard was beautiful.”

Cove Mesa Vineyard: Personalized Wine Flights

Next, it’s time for more tastings at Cove Mesa Vineyard. Here, each guest receives a wine flight of their choice, with options ranging from four to five different wines. The emphasis is on education, helping you understand each wine’s nuances to better inform your preferences. Guests appreciated that the guide took time to explain each selection, turning tasting into a mini-lesson—something that a casual drinker or connoisseur can enjoy equally.

Reviewers have noted that the wines here are well-chosen, and the experience is intimate. “We appreciated the education and the chance to customize our flights,” one guest shared.

Sweet Interlude: Artisan Chocolates at ChocolaTree or Similar

No wine tour would be complete without a sweet treat, and here, organic chocolates come into play. Depending on the day and timing, your stop could be ChocolaTree Organic Eatery, Living Chocolate, or Synergy Sedona. All are known for handmade, organic chocolates that are low in added sugars, making them a healthier indulgence.

The tour includes $11 worth of artisan chocolates per person, perfect for pairing with wines or micro-brews. Guests rave about the chocolates, describing them as “delicious and high-quality,” with one reviewer noting that they “pair perfectly with the wine flights.”

Micro-Brews: A Refreshing Alternative

For those who prefer beer over wine, the tour visits That Brewery, right in the heart of Verde Valley. Here, guests are served a flight of six beers of their choosing, allowing for a variety of styles to be sampled—an excellent way to experience the local craft beer scene.

Guests have praised the brewery for its friendly atmosphere and quality beers. One reviewer said, “The beers were fantastic, and the relaxed vibe made it easy to enjoy the moment.”

Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery: A Showcase of Varieties

The next stop is Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery, known for its broad selection of whites, reds, rosés, dessert wines, and sparkling wines. Each guest can craft a personalized flight of up to five wines or enjoy a full glass if preferred. The diversity here makes it a highlight, especially for those who like to explore different styles.

Reviewers have appreciated the variety and the staff’s willingness to educate. One mentioned, “The wines were delicious, and the staff explained each one in detail, helping us find new favorites.”

The Crowning Glory: Lunch at Merkin Osteria

The tour’s most anticipated moment is the lunch break at Merkin Osteria, a popular spot for farm-to-table Italian fare. Guests choose from a menu featuring handmade pasta, fresh salads, and appetizers, all paired with a wine flight of three wines. The relaxed atmosphere and quality food make this a memorable part of the day.

One reviewer described it as “a perfect combination of delicious food, wine, and great company,” and praised the owner’s background as a musician—the lead singer of Tool—as adding a fun, creative vibe.

DA Ranch: A Picturesque End to the Day

The final stop is DA Ranch, a smaller vineyard with only about nine acres but expansive grounds covering nearly 350 acres. The highlight here is the wine tasting flight of five signature wines, served in a setting that’s as tranquil as it is beautiful. The natural spring-fed pond and vast acreage provide a peaceful backdrop for sipping wine and reflecting on the day.

Guests often mention how the rustic charm and scenic beauty at DA Ranch make it a perfect closing point, with one saying, “It’s like tasting wine in a dream—serene, beautiful, and intimate.”

Included:
– Private transportation throughout the tour ensures a comfortable and worry-free experience
– Bottled water and snacks keep you refreshed
– Multiple tastings (up to four wine or beer flights, depending on your interests)
– Delicious lunch at Merkin Osteria or similar local venue, with wine or beer pairing
– $11 artisan chocolate per person, perfect for pairing
– Admission tickets at vineyards and tasting rooms

Not Included:
– Additional wine or beer beyond the four included flights
– Extra glasses or bottles you choose to purchase
– Gratuities for guides (not included but appreciated)

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 7 days ahead, so reserve early.
• Consider your preferences: Let the guide know if you prefer wine or beer, or if you’re interested in chocolate or food pairings.
• Dress comfortably: Some stops involve walking or standing; layers are advisable.
• Budget for extras: While most tastings and the included lunch are covered, additional bottles or glasses are at your expense.
• Arrive ready to relax: The pace is flexible, so enjoy each moment without feeling rushed.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Juan, who make the experience informative and fun. One reviewer noted, “Juan made the tour memorable, and the stops were all beautiful with delicious wines.” The scenery at DA Ranch is described as “beyond beautiful,” and the lunch at Merkin is considered a highlight for its quality and ambiance.

Many appreciated the ability to customize the tour—whether they wanted to focus on wines, beers, chocolates, or a mix of all—highlighting the tour’s flexibility. The small-group, private nature creates an intimate environment, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a day with friends.

This private wine, beer, and food tour in Sedona and Verde Valley offers a rare blend of authenticity, flexibility, and quality. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate curated experiences and want to explore local offerings at their own pace. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a craft beer enthusiast, or a foodie craving artisanal chocolates and farm-to-table lunch, this tour ticks all those boxes.

The inclusion of private transportation means you won’t have to worry about driving, and the personalized itinerary ensures you get the most out of your day. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and excellent food and drink options combine to make this a memorable, value-packed experience.

To sum it up, if you’re after a luxurious, flexible, and engaging day in Sedona that covers all your tastes, this tour is well worth considering. It balances expert curation with a laid-back vibe, making it ideal for making relaxed, delicious memories in one of Arizona’s most beautiful regions.

• How long does the tour last?
  Approximately 5 hours, providing a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.

• What is the meeting point?
  The tour starts at Vino di Sedona, located at 2575 AZ-89A, Sedona.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, private transportation is included for the entire tour.

• Can the itinerary be customized?
  Yes, guides can tailor the stops based on your preferences, especially regarding wine, beer, or chocolates.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
  While not explicitly stated, the tour’s personalized nature suggests you can inform the provider of any dietary needs ahead of time.

• What is the price per person?
  The tour costs $555.00 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, chocolates, and transportation.

• What is included in the lunch?
  A farm-to-table pasta dish, salad, or appetizer at Merkin Osteria, with a wine flight of three wines.

• Are additional wines or beers available for purchase?
  Yes, beyond the included flights, glasses and bottles are at your expense.

• Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
  The focus is on tasting experiences, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic stops, lunch, and chocolates.

• Is gratuity included?
  No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you feel the guide provided excellent service.

This tour offers an authentic, flexible way to explore Sedona’s vibrant local wine, beer, and culinary scene—perfect for those seeking a personalized, memorable day.