The Original 4 Winery Tour with Charcuterie

A Taste of Sedona’s Wine Country: The Original 4 Winery Tour with Charcuterie

If you’re looking for a way to explore Sedona’s burgeoning wine scene without the hassle of driving, this Verde Valley wine tour offers a relaxed, enjoyable day. For $95 per person, you’ll spend about 6 to 7 hours visiting up to four wineries, each with its own character and charm. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll sample wines, tour production facilities, and enjoy a thoughtfully prepared picnic lunch featuring a personalized charcuterie tray.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning vineyard scenery with informative visits—including a tour of a barrel room—and the convenience of round-trip transportation from Sedona. Plus, the included discounts on tastings and bottles can make a significant difference in your overall spending.

A potential consideration? The tour packs in a good deal of activity, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or fewer stops, this might feel a little rushed. Still, for those eager to taste a variety of wines and see some beautiful grounds, it’s a solid choice.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy wine tasting, scenic drives, and social outings with a friendly atmosphere. It’s especially good for first-timers or those who want a hassle-free way to visit multiple vineyards in one day.

Key Points

• Multiple wineries in one day — Visit up to four vineyards, each with its own unique vibe.
• Comfortable transportation — Round-trip, air-conditioned vehicle makes the day stress-free.
• Inclusive picnic lunch — A personalized charcuterie tray paired with snacks creates a relaxed tasting experience.
• Exclusive discounts — Save on tastings and bottles at each venue.
• Tour of production facilities — Get behind-the-scenes at at least one winery, including their barrel room.
• Flexible tasting options — Bring your own beverages if you prefer, with some wineries offering discounts on tastings.

A Deep Dive into the Verde Valley Wineries

The Unique Charm of Dancing Apache Road

Our journey begins at Dancing Apache Road, a vineyard that’s more often a wedding venue than a tasting room. Since it operates mainly for weddings (and is booked out through next year), chances are slim you’ll visit if it’s busy with events. When open, it’s quite special—featuring a large log cabin main house, sweeping grounds with cottonwood trees, and a lake fed by natural springs. It’s a top wedding spot, and it’s easy to see why, with lush scenery and gourmet food.

We loved the character and grandeur of the estate, plus the chance to soak in the peaceful natural surroundings. If you’re fortunate enough to visit, you’ll enjoy hearing about the vineyard’s history and the view of the spring-fed lake.

Javelina Leap: Sipping the Best Sangria

Next, we visit Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro—famous for its outstanding sangria. Expect to sample some of the finest in the region, with discounted tastings and bottles available for purchase. You’ll also get a tour of the winery’s production area and barrel room, giving you a peek into their winemaking process.

Reviews rave about the sangria being “the best on the planet,” and many mention how fun and lively the atmosphere is here. It’s a highlight for those wanting a flavorful, refreshing drink and a bit of inside knowledge about wine creation.

Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery: Classic and Cozy

The third stop is Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery, which offers another round of tastings at a vineyard known for its approachable wines and scenic setting. Visitors frequently mention discounts on tastings, making it a great value. Here, you’ll get to relax and enjoy the peaceful vineyard views, often accompanied by friendly staff eager to share their wine stories.

Alcantara Vineyards: A Wedding Dream Spot

Alcantara Vineyards and Winery is widely recognized for its stunning grounds, featuring a charming chapel and sprawling gardens. It’s no surprise Martha Stewart named it among the “Top 10 wedding venues in the country.” It’s a beautiful place to walk around, and the wine tasting is complemented by the lovely setting. Expect to find discounts on tastings here as well.

Many guests comment on how picturesque and well-maintained the grounds are, adding a layer of charm to the experience.

Cove Mesa Vineyard: The Newcomer Making Waves

The newest addition to the Verde Valley wine scene, Cove Mesa Vineyard, receives rave reviews from sommeliers and wine critics alike—some even suggest it might produce the best wine in Arizona. It’s a promising stop that leaves many curious about what the future holds for this up-and-coming vineyard. The tasting here often feels more exclusive, with fewer crowds and a chance to truly connect with the owners.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes snacks—a delightful spread of French baguettes, artisan cheeses, dried salami, grapes, nuts, and chocolates—plus bottled water, which keeps you refreshed throughout the day. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the scenic drive.

While the tasting fees aren’t included (and you’re encouraged to bring your own beverages if you’d like), the tour does secure special discounts at some wineries, making it easier on your wallet. Be aware that gratuities are recommended—about $10 per person for the driver if you’re in a group of four or more.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Each winery gets roughly an hour, which is enough time to sample multiple wines, soak in the atmosphere, and ask questions. The stops are well spaced, so you’ll get a nice mix of views, wine styles, and atmospheres. The visit to a production facility or barrel room adds an educational touch—many reviews highlight how much they appreciated the behind-the-scenes look.

The Guide and Group Size

Guides like Jorge and Keith are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. They make the experience feel personalized, answer questions, and keep the energy high. The group size maxes out at around 100, but most tours are friendly, intimate, and social.

The Value and the Cost

At $95, this tour offers a considerable value given the number of wineries visited, the included snacks, and the convenience factor. When you compare it to other tours that charge nearly double for fewer stops, it’s clear this is a wallet-friendly way to explore the local wine scene. The discounts at wineries mean you might spend less overall, especially if you purchase bottles.

A Few Caveats

Some reviews mention that the tour can feel a bit long or that certain wineries aren’t as memorable—like the initial stops, which some found marginal. Others note that the day involves a fair amount of wine tasting, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with sampling multiple flights. Also, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, this might be a little too packed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to try multiple vineyards in one go, especially if you prefer not to worry about driving. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad taste of the Verde Valley’s offerings, or for those looking for a fun, social day out with friends or partners. If scenic vineyard views, behind-the-scenes tours, and a personalized charcuterie lunch appeal to you, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who appreciate value for money and are comfortable with a somewhat busy schedule will find this tour more than worth the price. If you prefer more leisure and fewer stops, consider whether a different, more relaxed option might suit you better.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, including visits to four wineries, tasting time, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Sedona in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making it a stress-free experience.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own beverages if you prefer, especially since tasting fees are not included.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. A gratuity of about $10 per person is recommended for groups of four or more.

What’s the best time of year to go?
The tour confirmation depends on good weather, so spring, early summer, or fall are ideal times. Canceled tours due to poor weather will be rescheduled or refunded.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but since the tour involves tastings and a fair amount of walking, it’s best suited for adults. Service animals are permitted.

What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, the tour can accommodate groups up to 100, though most are smaller and more intimate.

To sum it up, this Original 4 Winery Tour with Charcuterie offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day sampling some of Sedona’s most appealing vineyards. Its mix of scenic drives, behind-the-scenes tours, and a delicious picnic lunch make it a strong choice for those eager to experience the local wine culture without the hassle of organizing each stop. With attentive guides, good value, and the chance to taste a variety of wines, it’s a fun, engaging way to fill a day in Sedona. Whether you’re celebrating, exploring new wines, or just want a memorable outing, this tour is likely to leave you with a smile—and maybe a bottle or two.