Sedona: 4-Hour SIP & Savor Wine and Food Tour

Starting with its stunning red rock scenery and ending with a glass of bold Arizona wine, this 4-hour guided tour offers a flavorful look into Sedona’s burgeoning wine scene along with some delicious local bites. For around $100 per person, you’ll visit three exceptional vineyards, enjoy curated tastings, and savor house-made dishes—all with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What sets this tour apart? First, the chance to sample wines in picturesque settings—Alcantara Vineyards along the Verde River is a quiet haven for nature lovers, and the pairing of bold wines with house-made pasta at Merkin Vineyards adds a tasty dimension not always found on wine tours. Second, the lively atmosphere at Arizona Stronghold, where you can choose from flights or a glass, makes for a fun, social finish to your afternoon.

A potential consideration is the group size—if you’re seeking a more intimate experience, the standard tour might be a bit bustling, though a private option is available for more personalized attention. This tour is perfect for foodies, wine enthusiasts, or travelers who appreciate scenic drives combined with tasting experiences. If you love a good balance of nature, local cuisine, and well-crafted wines, this tour hits all the marks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Scenic Vineyards: Offers beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere at Alcantara Vineyards and others.
Variety of Tastes: Enjoy a mix of wine styles, from bold Arizona reds to curated flights at Arizona Stronghold.
Delicious Food Pairings: Savor house-made pasta and small plates that complement the wines.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience stress-free.
Expert Guide: Learn local insights and fun facts as you explore.
Flexible Options: Private tours available for a more tailored experience.

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What Is the Sedona SIP & Savor Wine and Food Tour?

This tour is a wonderful way to combine Sedona’s natural beauty with its growing wine culture—all in just four hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle, enjoying a scenic drive through the Verde Valley, and visit three distinguished vineyards. The tour is designed to suit those who want more than just wine tasting; it’s an experience that pairs wine with local flavors, stunning scenery, and engaging stories.

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Sedona, which means you don’t have to worry about logistics. If you’re staying outside the city, you can meet at The Art of Wine, a cozy spot that’s part of the experience. Throughout, your guide will share insights into the region’s wine industry and local culture, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

What Makes It Special?

Alcantara Vineyards: Located along the Verde River, this vineyard offers a peaceful setting to taste bold wines while soaking in the nature and watching river scenes. Reviewers love the “breathtaking setting,” making it more memorable than just a tasting.
Merkin Vineyards & Trattoria: This stop in Old Town Cottonwood is a highlight for many. Known for its house-made pasta and locally inspired small plates, it offers a nice balance of flavor and atmosphere. One traveler said, “The pasta was fantastic and paired beautifully with the wine.”
Arizona Stronghold Vineyards: A lively spot where you can opt for curated flights or opt for a glass, perfect for those wanting a more relaxed, social vibe. The bold wines here are praised, and many say it’s a great way to wrap up the tour.

What To Expect On the Day

The tour typically lasts 4 hours, with enough time at each stop to enjoy your tastings without feeling rushed. Bottled water is available, keeping you refreshed during the drive, and some light background music sets a relaxed mood.

Expect a small group—though this can vary—and friendly, knowledgeable guides who share stories about the local wine scene and region. The drive between vineyards is scenic, often with photo opportunities at viewpoints along the Verde River and the vineyards themselves.

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The Experience’s Flavor Profile

Wine tastings include a variety of bold reds and other varietals, with Arizona’s unique climate giving wines a distinct character. The pairing with house-made pasta and small plates elevates the experience, turning tastings into a proper appreciation of local flavors.

Reviewers repeatedly mention how the combination of scenery and taste makes this tour stand out. Many appreciated the “lively atmosphere” at Arizona Stronghold and the chance to “learn about Arizona wines in a relaxed setting.”

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The Itinerary Breakdown

Alcantara Vineyards

Your journey begins here, set along the peaceful Verde River. This vineyard offers some of the most scenic views, making it easy to picture why many find this stop their favorite. The focus here is on bold wines—reds and other varietals—that are well-suited to the warm Arizona climate.

We loved the way this vineyard balances nature and wine—wine tasting amid a backdrop of flowing river and open sky. It’s a quiet moment that allows you to appreciate the terroir, the specific environmental conditions that influence the wine’s flavor. One reviewer noted, “The setting alone makes Alcantara worth the trip,” emphasizing how memorable the views are.

Merkin Vineyards & Trattoria

Next, we head to Old Town Cottonwood, a charming historic district with a lively, welcoming feel. Merkin Vineyards is known for its house-made pasta and small plates inspired by local ingredients. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a more substantial taste experience, making the day more than just wine sipping.

Guests rave about the house-made pasta, describing it as “delicious and perfectly paired with the wines,” and many appreciate the opportunity to sample local flavors in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s a nice contrast to the scenic calm of Alcantara, adding a lively, flavorful dimension to the tour.

Arizona Stronghold Vineyards

The final stop is at Arizona Stronghold, one of the state’s most recognized wine brands. Here, you can choose to try curated flights or enjoy a glass of what appeals most to you. The lively, social atmosphere makes it a great spot to unwind and discuss the day’s highlights.

Reviewers often mention the excellent wine selection and the informative staff—many say this is a great way to end the tour on a high note. The option to select your preferred tasting style means you can tailor this part of the experience to your mood.

Additional Details & What You Need to Know

Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with scenic views during the drive.
Group Size: Typically small, creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, with private tours also available.
Duration: 4 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
Price: Around $100 per person, which includes tastings, food pairings, hotel pickup/drop-off, and guide service.
Age Restrictions: Not suitable for those under 21 years old.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans.
Language: Guided in English, with an engaging, friendly approach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone who appreciates good wine, local cuisine, and scenic drives. It’s especially suitable for foodies, wine enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a relaxed, social outing. If you’re interested in Arizona’s wine scene or simply want a taste of the Verde Valley’s natural beauty, this tour delivers a balanced mix of both.

For those seeking a more intimate, personalized experience, the private tour option offers deeper engagement, but even in its standard form, the small-group setting encourages conversation and connection.

The Sum Up

The Sedona SIP & Savor Wine and Food Tour offers a wonderfully balanced glimpse into Arizona’s emerging wine culture, combined with some of the region’s most scenic views. You’ll enjoy a relaxed yet engaging experience, with plenty of opportunities to learn about local wines and taste delicious, house-made bites.

If you love the idea of pairing bold wines with scenic landscapes and tasty food, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for relaxed afternoons, small groups, and those eager to discover Sedona’s lesser-known culinary side.

While the tour is not for those under 21, it caters well to adults looking for a flavorful, scenic, and social outing. It’s an excellent way to add a touch of sophistication and local flavor to your Sedona trip without overdoing it.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off anywhere in Sedona, making it very convenient. If you’re staying outside Sedona, you can meet at The Art of Wine.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about four hours, including travel time, tastings, and food pairings.

Can I choose to have a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available for a more personalized experience, offering additional flexibility and intimacy.

What is included in the tour price?
Your tour price covers tastings at three vineyards, house-made food pairings, hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and the guide.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, guests under 21 are not permitted, as the focus is on wine tastings.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Bring sunglasses and a hat for outdoor vineyard visits, especially in warmer months.

Will I have enough time at each vineyard?
Yes, the tour is structured to allow ample time at each stop for tasting and photos without feeling rushed.

What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Check availability for start times, but generally, afternoon tours are ideal, especially to enjoy the sunset views and avoid the midday heat.

This detailed, well-rounded tour combines scenery, flavor, and fun, making it a memorable way to explore Sedona’s wine scene and local flavors without feeling hurried. It’s a smart choice for those who want a taste of everything—nature, good food, and great wine—in just a few hours.