An Evening in Old Town

Planning a night out in Sedona that combines history, charming scenery, and a bit of wine tasting? This An Evening in Old Town tour promises just that—a four-hour private experience that takes you through Cottonwood’s vibrant historic district, indulges you with three wine tastings, and ends with a tasty dinner, plus a bottle of wine to take home. While it’s not a cheap experience at $555 per person, it’s crafted for those who truly appreciate good wine, a relaxed atmosphere, and a bit of culinary delight.

What really caught our eye are the personalized nature of the tour, with just your group and a guide, and the inclusion of a complete dinner—something you don’t usually see bundled with wine tours. On the flip side, the price might feel steep if you’re just after a quick tasting or are traveling solo. This is best suited for couples, friends, or small groups who want a curated, intimate experience with a focus on Arizona’s wine scene and charming Old Town vibes.

Key Points

• Private tour with just your party ensures a personalized experience.
• Includes three wine tasting flights and a bottle of wine to take home, good for wine lovers.
• Dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria adds a culinary touch, with a full meal included.
• All entrance fees and digital photos included—no hidden costs.
• Ideal for those who want a relaxed, intimate evening with wine, good food, and history.
• Note the price—it’s on the higher side but reflects the personalized and comprehensive nature of the experience.

The Experience: What’s Included and How It Unfolds

This tour is designed to give you a full-in-the-know night out in Old Town Cottonwood. The setting? Think charming streets, historic architecture, and a lively but relaxed atmosphere. Starting from Vino di Sedona, your guide will pick you up (or meet you there if you prefer), then lead you through the scenic and historic parts of Cottonwood.

Exploring Old Town Cottonwood

Your guide will introduce you to the area’s standout features—its architecture, its vibe, and its significance as a hub of Arizona’s wine country. Old Town Cottonwood isn’t just about wine; it’s a place where old buildings meet modern charm, with plenty of spots for a quick picture or a relaxed stroll. It’s a place that feels both historic and lively, perfect for wandering and soaking up the local scene.

Wine Tastings: Three Flights in a Relaxed Setting

The highlight? Three wine tasting flights for each person. These tastings showcase the best of Arizona’s wine offerings. Expect a variety of flavors, from crisp whites to bold reds, and probably some local favorites you may not find elsewhere. Since all entrance fees are included, you don’t have to worry about extra costs here. The guide will help you understand the wines, their origins, and what makes Arizona wines special.

One review mentions the “excellent wine selection,” which hints that the tastings are thoughtfully curated. If you’re a wine enthusiast or even just a casual sipper, this part of the tour should satisfy your palate.

Dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria

After the tastings, you’ll sit down for a delightful dinner. The meal includes an appetizer, an entrée, and dessert, each paired with a glass of wine. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s a proper meal that complements the wine and offers a chance to relax and chat with your companions. The setting is charming, adding to the overall experience. It’s worth noting that this included dinner adds a lot of value in terms of culinary enjoyment, especially compared to other wine tours that might just focus on tastings.

Taking Home a Bottle of Wine

Each person gets a bottle of wine to take home, up to $45 in value. It’s a thoughtful touch that allows you to remember the experience long after it ends. Whether you prefer red, white, or perhaps a rosé, you’ll have something to savor later or gift to a friend.

The Details: What You Need to Know

Duration and Logistics

At around four hours, this isn’t a hurried experience. It’s paced to let you enjoy each part without rushing. Starting at Vino di Sedona, the tour ends back at the same point, making logistics simple. Pickup is offered, which is convenient if you’re staying somewhere nearby.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Since it’s a private tour, only your party and the guide are involved. This makes for a more relaxed, tailored experience without the crowds of larger group tours. The guide acts as a host and storyteller, making the experience more engaging and personalized.

Cost and Value

At $555 per person, this tour is definitely on the higher end. To many, that’s a premium price, but it includes a lot: private service, three tastings, dinner, a bottle of wine, entrance fees, and digital photos. If you’re into wine and seeking a curated, intimate experience, many would find this price justified.

Weather and Dress Code

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly—think layers if it’s cooler or sun protection if it’s sunny. Since it’s an outdoor-friendly area, comfortable shoes are a good idea.

Dietary Requirements

They ask for advance notice of dietary restrictions, which is helpful. While it’s not a gluten- or vegan-specific tour, accommodations might be possible if you inform them beforehand.

Suitability

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Since it involves tasting wine and a sit-down dinner, it’s best suited for adults looking for a leisurely, educational evening rather than a wild night out.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Very personalized experience with just your group.
– Excellent wine selection, with three tastings and a takeaway bottle.
– Full dinner included, making it a well-rounded evening.
– Digital photos to remember the night.
– All entrance fees included, no surprises.

Cons:
– Price might be a barrier for some travelers.
– The experience is focused on Arizona wines—if you’re after a broader wine tasting tour, it might feel limited.
– Since it’s in Old Town Cottonwood, it’s best suited for those who enjoy historic, scenic areas with a relaxed vibe.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone who values a personalized, relaxed wine tasting with good food. It also appeals to those interested in Arizona’s wine scene and looking for a sophisticated, yet intimate, evening outing. If you enjoy tasting multiple wines, savoring a full meal, and taking home a bottle to remember your trip, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more active, adventurous experience, you might want to explore other options. It’s not suitable for children, given the alcohol tastings and dinner, but it’s perfect for adults seeking a cultured, enjoyable evening in Sedona’s neighboring town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it includes wine tastings and alcohol, it’s best suited for adults. The tour doesn’t mention children specifically, and the focus is on wine and dining, so it’s not aimed at family groups.

Can I join the tour if I’m traveling solo?
This tour requires a minimum of two adults per booking, so solo travelers need to find a companion or join with a friend. It’s a private experience, so it’s not available for single bookings.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about four hours, providing enough time to enjoy the tastings, dinner, and a relaxed stroll around Old Town Cottonwood.

What’s included in the price?
All entrance fees are covered, along with three wine tastings, a full dinner, a bottle of wine to take home, bottled water, and digital photos. The price also covers pickup if needed.

What about the wine?
You’ll enjoy up to three tasting flights during the tour. The bottle you take home can’t exceed $45 in value, which gives some flexibility depending on your preference.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned. All costs listed are included, but extra wine beyond the three tastings and one bottle is not covered.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for the forecast. If rain or cold are forecasted, layers or rain gear are advisable.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Vino di Sedona at 2575 AZ-89A and ends back there, making it easy to plan your evening.

Final Thoughts

An Evening in Old Town offers a sophisticated, intimate way to experience the charms of Cottonwood’s historic district while indulging in Arizona’s best wines and a delicious dinner. The inclusion of a bottle to take home makes it a memorable keepsake, and the private setting ensures a relaxed, personalized experience. It’s best suited for wine lovers, couples, or small groups who want a night focused on quality and comfort rather than rushing through a crowded tour.

While the price is on the higher side, the comprehensive nature—tasting, dining, photos, and a takeaway bottle—means you’re paying for a well-rounded, curated experience. If this sounds like your idea of a perfect evening, it’s worth considering. Just be sure you’re prepared for a leisurely pace and a focus on Arizona’s wine gems.

Remember: Always check current availability and confirm any dietary needs or special requests when booking. Enjoy your relaxing, flavorful evening exploring Cottonwood’s historic charm!