Wine Tasting from Scottsdale-(4 Vineyards & Includes Lunch)

A Friendly Look at the Scottsdale Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day exploring Arizona’s wine scene, this wine tasting tour from Scottsdale might catch your eye. Focused on visiting four top wineries in the Verde Valley, it promises a combination of beautiful vineyard vistas, expert tastings, and a thoughtfully prepared picnic lunch. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the details suggest it offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience — especially if you’re into wine and want to do some sightseeing without the hassle of planning.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of a gourmet charcuterie picnic at one of the vineyards. Who doesn’t love a laid-back, delicious lunch paired with local wines? Plus, the tour’s small-group vibe and air-conditioned transportation make for a comfortable and personalized journey. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point of $300 per person, which might feel steep if you’re just looking for a casual tasting day.

This tour is probably best suited for those who want to combine wine tasting with a touch of luxury and don’t mind splurging a little for the convenience of transportation and food. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples celebrating special occasions, or friends looking for a memorable day in the Verde Valley. Just keep in mind, since the tastings are discounted but not included, you’ll want to budget accordingly.

Key Points

• Luxury Experience: Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi makes the day easy and enjoyable.
• Varied Wineries: Visiting four different vineyards offers a broad taste of Arizona’s wine scene, each with its own unique story.
• Gourmet Picnic: A thoughtfully curated charcuterie lunch elevates the experience beyond just wine.
• Group Size & Privacy: Minimum of four travelers generally; private tours available for smaller groups, making it flexible for different needs.
• Price & Value: At $300, you’re paying for more than just tastings — the comfort, guided experience, and food add up.
• Reviews Highlight: Guide Kelly’s knowledge and charm are frequently praised, making the day more memorable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Transportation

Your day begins at a convenient Scottsdale location, where you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi. This makes the ride between vineyards pleasant, especially on warmer days. The tour is designed to cater to groups of up to 50 travelers, but with most bookings averaging about 38 days in advance, you’ll want to plan ahead.

Alcantara Vineyards and Winery

Your first stop is Alcantara Vineyards, home to over 20,000 vines and 17 different varietals. This winery offers a taste of true Arizona wine-making, with the added bonus of beautiful scenery — vineyards, the Verde River, and a grassy picnic area where you can relax. During a visit here, you’ll be surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature and the sight of bald eagles soaring above, which adds a special touch to the experience.

The visit lasts just over an hour, giving you enough time to sip, chat, and soak in the calm atmosphere. One reviewer noted how much they appreciated the sense of community and family at Alcantara, which makes the tasting feel more personal.

Javelina Leap Vineyard, Winery & Bistro

Next, you’ll head to Javelina Leap, a family-operated boutique winery recognized for its award-winning wines. Located only minutes from Sedona, in the historic Page Springs area, this stop lets you enjoy the vibe of a small, passionate operation. You’ll get to taste some of their best offerings and learn about their story — a highlight for many who appreciate wines made with care and craftsmanship.

Expect about an hour and 15 minutes here, enough time to savor their wines and perhaps pick up a bottle at a discount, thanks to the tour’s exclusive deals. Visitors often mention the warm hospitality and excellent selection.

DA Ranch

Moving along, your third stop is DA Ranch, which began making wine in 2008. Since then, they’ve grown rapidly, producing around 1,500 cases a year. The owners’ story adds a personal touch that many find engaging, and the wines reflect a sense of place and dedication. This stop has a slightly longer visit of 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you ample opportunity to taste different varieties and learn about their process.

While some reviews mention that tasting fees are paid separately at the wineries, the tour offers good discounts on tastings and bottles, making the visit more affordable overall. The stories behind the wines add an extra layer of interest for those who enjoy understanding the people and history behind each label.

Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery

Your final stop is Oak Creek Vineyards, situated near Oak Creek and House Mountain. Established in 2002, this 11-acre vineyard produces both reds and whites, with nearly 3,000 cases annually. The volcanic soil, high elevation, and proximity to water sources contribute to the quality of their grapes.

Here, you’ll have about an hour and 15 minutes to enjoy the scenic views, sample their wines, and take in the surroundings of this picturesque location. The relaxed setting makes it a fitting way to wind down your day of tasting.

The Lunch — A Picnic to Remember

One of the highlights is the gourmet picnic lunch featuring artisan cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, gourmet chocolates, and French bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This thoughtfully curated meal is served at one of the vineyards, giving you a chance to unwind, chat, and enjoy your surroundings — a real upgrade from typical lunch options.

Reviewers have mentioned the lunch as a delightful part of the experience, complementing the wine tastings nicely. It’s a good idea to arrive hungry because this lunch is substantial and well-prepared.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are bottled water, a quality picnic lunch, air-conditioned transportation, and WiFi. The wine tastings themselves are not included, but you receive discounts on tastings and bottles at each winery, which helps manage costs. If you’re a wine enthusiast, this can be a real advantage, making the overall experience feel more personalized and affordable.

What’s not included is the actual wine you purchase — which is typical for such tours. Expect to pay separately for tastings if you choose to indulge at each winery.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a comfortable, guided experience with a touch of luxury. It’s ideal for wine lovers wanting to explore multiple vineyards without the hassle of driving, and for anyone interested in supporting small, family-run wineries. The inclusion of a gourmet picnic and the knowledge shared by guides like Kelly can make the day stand out.

It’s worth noting the minimum group size of four travelers, which keeps the atmosphere friendly but may require some planning if you’re traveling solo or with a small group. Private tours are available for smaller parties, making this flexible.

The Honest Bottom Line

If you’re someone who values ease and comfort over a purely budget experience, this tour delivers a polished, well-rounded day in the Verde Valley. The variety of wineries means you’ll get a good sense of Arizona wine styles, and the guided element helps deepen your understanding. The gourmet lunch is a definite perk, and the knowledgeable guides make a difference, according to reviews.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore wineries independently, this might not be the best choice. Also, keep in mind that tastings are discounted but not included, so your final costs can add up if you indulge at every stop.

All in all, this is a solid, enjoyable way to spend a day in the Verde Valley if you’re looking for a blend of comfort, education, and good wine.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, private tours are available for 1-3 people, though the standard tour generally requires at least four travelers for it to run.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $300 per person, which includes transportation, lunch, and discounts on tastings.

Are tastings included in the price?
No, tastings are not included, but you receive discounts at the wineries, making it more affordable to sample a variety of wines.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What is the lunch like?
The lunch features a picnic with artisan cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, gourmet chocolates, and French bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a bottle of water — though bottled water is provided.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly targeted at families, the focus on wine tasting and the adult-oriented nature suggests it’s best suited for adults rather than children.

Whether you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast or just looking for a leisurely day out with friends, this Scottsdale wine tour offers a taste of Arizona’s burgeoning wine scene in comfort and style. It’s a good option if you appreciate a guided experience with some added luxuries, especially the picnic lunch and the chance to explore four different wineries. Just be ready to budget a bit more for tastings and keep in mind the group size requirements. Cheers to a day of good wine, beautiful views, and fun company!