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

Experience the Best of Sedona’s Wine Country in Style
If you’re looking to explore some of Arizona’s most scenic vineyards without the hassle of driving, this Northern Arizona Private Wine Tour south of Sedona is a fantastic choice. For around $500 per person, you’ll spend about five hours in the company of a knowledgeable guide in a luxury limo-style vehicle—think Mercedes Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit—so your only task is to sip, savor, and enjoy. This tour covers three carefully selected vineyards in the Verde Valley, with tastings and lunch included, making it an effortless way to indulge in local wines and stunning natural beauty.

Two things we really like about this experience: first, the personalized, private nature of the tour—it’s tailored to your group’s preferences, which means more flexibility in what you taste and see. Second, the luxury transportation ensures you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy each stop without stress. The included lunch at Merkin Vineyards and Osteria adds a wonderful, relaxed dining touch, allowing for lingering conversations over locally sourced flavors.

One consideration to keep in mind is the cost—at $500 per person, this is definitely a premium experience. While it’s packed with value in terms of tastings, lunch, and comfort, it’s best suited for those who want an intimate, high-end wine adventure rather than a budget-friendly group outing. This tour really shines for couples, small groups, or even business outings seeking a luxurious yet authentic taste of Arizona’s wine scene.

If you love wine, scenic drives, and the comfort of a guided experience, this private tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal if you value personalized attention and gourmet food along with your tastings.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your wine preferences
• Luxury transportation ensures comfort and safety
• Includes tastings at three vineyards with a total of nine samples or more
• Lunch at Merkin Vineyards features locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients
• Relaxed, half-day itinerary with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Good for small groups of 3-6 people seeking an upscale, intimate outing

An In-Depth Look at Your Verde Valley Wine Tour

This tour offers a carefully curated way to experience Sedona’s wine country without the hassle of planning logistics or driving yourself. From the moment you’re picked up in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit, the experience feels special—more like a celebration than a typical wine tasting. Your guide and chauffeur coordinate the journey, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and the wines.

The First Stop: Alcantara Vineyards and Winery

Your adventure begins with a short 30-minute drive from Phoenix or Sedona, heading into the heart of Verde Valley. At Alcantara Vineyards, you’re greeted by over 20,000 vines and an impressive 17 varietals. Here, the emphasis is on quality and variety. You’ll receive a wine tasting menu with the opportunity to sample a flight of your choosing. The staff and guide aim to make the tasting educational and fun, sharing insights into the different wines you try.

What makes Alcantara stand out is the sheer diversity of wines—from reds to whites, with plenty of options for all palates. The setting is charming, with a relaxed vibe that invites you to savor each sip. As one review notes, the driver and guide create a welcoming atmosphere that makes this stop a highlight.

The Second Stop: Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria

Next, your group heads to Merkin Vineyards, known for its Italian-inspired wines and farm-to-table ethos. Reservations are made in advance, but the popularity can mean a slight wait—something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule. Here, you’ll enjoy a main course or entrée along with a wine tasting flight, giving you a chance to sample some of the local and Italian-influenced varietals.

What’s particularly appealing about Merkin is the local produce and homemade pastas—all sourced from their own gardens and made with traditional methods. The vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options ensure everyone finds something enjoyable. The relaxed, farm-fresh atmosphere makes this stop feel authentic and tasty, with one reviewer praising the flexibility and quality of the food.

The Final Stop: Oak Creek Canyon / Javelina Leap Vineyards

The last vineyard offers spectacular views and a chance to unwind with inside or outside seating options. Weekend visits can be busy, but that’s part of the charm—this winery is popular for good reason. Here, you’ll find a variety of tasting flights, allowing you to explore more local wines before heading back.

The view of Oak Creek Canyon or the beautiful landscape provides a perfect backdrop for tasting and relaxing. This final stop is appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to discuss your favorites with knowledgeable staff.

The Return Journey

After a full and flavorful day, your driver will return you to your original pickup point, roughly 30 minutes away. The focus remains on comfort and safety, so you can reflect on your day or start planning your next trip.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

Considering the all-inclusive price, the personalized experience, and the high-quality venues, this private wine tour offers excellent value for those who want a stress-free, luxurious way to explore Arizona’s wine scene. The tastings are included in the price, which helps avoid unexpected expenses, and the lunch makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a full, relaxed experience.

The small-group size of 3-6 people means you’ll get plenty of attention and a more intimate setting than larger tours. Plus, the dedicated guide makes the experience informative, sharing insights about each vineyard and the wines, adding depth to your tasting experience.

What We Loved

• The luxury transportation makes traveling between vineyards comfortable and stress-free.
• The personalized tastings allow you to focus on the wines that appeal most to you, enhancing the tasting experience.
• The lunch at Merkin was a highlight—farm-fresh, thoughtfully prepared, and paired perfectly with the wines.
• The scenic drives through oak-covered hills and the views from the vineyards create memorable photo opportunities.

Possible Drawbacks

• The price point might be a barrier for some, especially if budget constraints are a concern.
• On weekends, the last vineyard can get crowded, which might detract slightly from the relaxed vibe.
• The duration is about five hours, so it’s best for those comfortable with a half-day commitment—less suitable if you prefer a full-day tour or want more vineyard stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples or small groups looking for a luxurious, tailored day in wine country. It suits those who appreciate high-quality wines, enjoy scenic drives, and want an all-inclusive, relaxed outing. It’s also ideal for special occasions, such as anniversaries or celebrations, where comfort and personalized service matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, luxury transportation in a Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit is included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off.

How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit three wineries during the tour, with tastings included at each.

Are lunch and tastings included in the price?
Yes, both are included—each guest receives a lunch entrée and a wine tasting flight at Merkin Vineyards, plus tastings at the other two wineries.

Can I customize the tastings?
Tastings are tailored to your preferences, with a menu of wine flight options provided at Alcantara.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or under 21?
No, all participants must be 21 or older with valid ID, as alcohol is involved.

To sum it up, this private wine tour offers a stylish, relaxed way to explore Arizona’s wine country, perfect for those seeking personalized service, excellent wines, and scenic views. While it’s a premium experience, the thoughtful touches—from the luxury transport to the farm-fresh lunch—make it a worthwhile splurge for wine enthusiasts and special occasion travelers alike. If you value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of luxury in your wine adventures, this could be your ideal day out in Sedona’s beautiful Verde Valley.