Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back, customizable wine adventure in Sedona, the AZ Wine Crawler Tour might just be worth considering. This private experience caters to groups of 4 to 12 people, promising a flexible day filled with tastings, winery visits, and a bit of local flavor. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, we’ve gathered enough details to help you decide if this tour suits your style.

What really catches our eye is the personalized approach—owners are well-connected in the Verde Valley wine scene, which opens doors for unique experiences like barrel room visits and harvesting options. Plus, the itinerary includes visits to some of the most acclaimed wineries in the area. Another highlight? The ability to bring along your own beverages and snacks during transit, making it feel even more relaxed and tailored to your preferences.

However, a potential consideration is the price point. At $139 per person, it’s a reasonable cost for a private, multi-venue wine day, but the value depends on how much you love wine and personalized experiences. Also, keep in mind that the tour is about five hours long, which is perfect for a leisurely day but might be a bit tight if you’re looking for a more extensive exploration or if you’re traveling with very young children (though this tour is 21+).

This tour is likely best suited for small groups of friends, couples, or even families with older Wine-loving teens. If you value expert guides, exclusive access, and a flexible schedule, it could be just what you need for a memorable Sedona outing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored for groups of 4-12.
• Multiple winery visits, offering the most options in the Verde Valley AVA.
• Personal connections of the owners allow for special experiences like barrel room visits.
• Flexible and relaxed—bring your own drinks and snacks if you wish.
• Five-hour duration makes it a manageable day without feeling rushed.
• Cost includes guide but excludes alcohol—be prepared to purchase tastings at wineries.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest draws of the AZ Wine Crawler Tour is just how customizable it is. Unlike some cookie-cutter wine tours, this one allows for personal touches, whether that’s visiting specific wineries, adding in alpaca feeding, or exploring Harvesting options. The owners’ strong relationships with local wineries mean you might get access to areas typically off-limits, like barrel rooms—something that adds exclusive value.

Plus, the itinerary includes stops at well-known wineries like DA Ranch and Javelina Leap Vineyard, both of which have earned awards and praise for their wines and atmospheres. The visit to Cove Mesa Vineyard is particularly promising, with its recognition as one of the best tasting rooms in the AVA and offerings of both wine and food.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: DA Ranch

The day starts at DA Ranch, a private family estate vineyard and tasting room. With about 45 minutes here, you get a glimpse into what life is like on a private vineyard. It’s free to visit, and the setting promises a peaceful start to your wine day. We imagine this as a perfect way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Verde Valley while sampling some local wines or simply soaking in the views.

Stop 2: Javelina Leap Vineyard

Next, you’ll visit Javelina Leap, a family-owned operation with a lively, fun atmosphere. This awarded vineyard offers a relaxed vibe where you can enjoy 45 minutes of tastings in a setting that’s both welcoming and characterful. Their awards suggest a quality experience, and the family-run nature of the winery often translates into more personalized service.

Stop 3: Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery

A smaller, award-winning winery, Oak Creek Vineyards offers an intimate experience—perfect for those who love hearing stories about the wines directly from the people behind them. Again, about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to explore and savor.

Stop 4: Cove Mesa Vineyard

This stop is often highlighted as a favorite. Known for award-winning wines and its recognition as a top tasting room, Cove Mesa offers both wine and food options. The tasting here is likely to be a highlight, especially if you enjoy pairing wine with bites, and the atmosphere is expected to be warm and inviting.

Stop 5: Historic Old Town Cottonwood

The last leg of your tour is a two-hour exploration of Old Town Cottonwood. The area is rich with award-winning wineries, tasting rooms, and foodie spots. It’s also an excellent time to soak in local charm, browse shops, or grab a bite. Since it’s a longer stop, it provides flexibility—your group can relax, sample, or explore as you please.

What We Love & What to Watch For

We appreciate the personal touch that the owners’ connections bring to this tour. Their ability to facilitate exclusive experiences like barrel room visits and harvesting options can really elevate the day for wine enthusiasts. Plus, the fact that you can bring your own drinks adds a fun, casual element many tours lack.

On the flip side, since the tour is approximately five hours and involves multiple stops, it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed pace but still enough time to enjoy each location. If you’re not a wine lover or prefer more structured or longer wine tours, this might feel a bit rushed or less comprehensive.

The Value Proposition

At $139 per person, considering the private nature and the variety of stops, this tour offers good value—especially if you enjoy personalized experiences and sampling award-winning wines. The guide’s role is crucial here—they’re not just chauffeurs but knowledgeable hosts who can enhance your understanding of the wines and area.

Keep in mind, alcohol is not included in the price, so you should budget for tastings at each winery. The ability to bring snacks and beverages along makes it easier to customize your day and keep everyone comfortable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience best suits small groups of friends, couples, or families with older teens who appreciate wine, local culture, and a flexible schedule. It’s perfect if you want to avoid crowded, tourist-heavy tours and instead enjoy a more intimate, customized day. If you’re looking for a straightforward, guided, and somewhat luxurious wine adventure without the fuss, this tour could hit the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those under 21?
No, the tour is designed for guests aged 21 and above, as it involves wine tastings.

Does the tour include alcohol?
No, the price covers the guide and visits, but tastings are paid for separately at each winery.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring items and beverages on the Crawler to enjoy during transit.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately five hours, which provides enough time for multiple stops and a relaxed experience.

What is the group size?
Between 4 and 12 people, making for a personalized, intimate experience.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered to make your day easier and more comfortable.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The owners are very connected in the local scene and can tailor experiences, including winery visits and activities like alpaca petting.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, bookings are made about 39 days ahead, so planning early is smart if you have specific dates in mind.

Final Thoughts

If you crave a personalized, flexible wine day in Sedona with the chance for exclusive access and insider experiences, the AZ Wine Crawler Tour makes a compelling choice. It’s a good blend of guided expertise and freedom to explore at your own pace. The stops are carefully selected, and the connection owners maintain with local wineries can make your day extra special.

This tour isn’t the best fit if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a very structured, extensive wine tour. But if you’re after a relaxed, intimate experience with a friendly guide, it could be just the thing to create lasting memories in the Verde Valley.

Ultimately, this experience shines brightest for those who want to enjoy quality wines, personalized touches, and a day that feels tailored just for their group. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, the AZ Wine Crawler offers a friendly, flexible way to experience Sedona’s wine scene.