Sedona & Verde Valley Private Wine Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning a visit to Sedona and looking to experience its vibrant wine scene alongside some of the area’s best local food and craft brews, then this Sedona & Verde Valley Private Wine Tour with Lunch might just be your perfect match. From tasting lush wines to sampling organic chocolates, this flexible and personalized tour promises a well-rounded day that caters to a variety of tastes and interests.

What we love about this experience? First, the variety—it’s not just about wine; micro-brews, chocolates, and a delicious farm-to-table lunch are all part of the package. Second, the customizable nature—your guide curates a route based on your preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your day.

One potential consideration? At five hours, it’s a fairly full day, so it’s best suited for those ready to indulge and explore without feeling rushed.

This tour appeals most to those who appreciate good wine, craft beer, great food, and scenic views—all in a private, relaxed setting. Whether you’re a couple, friends, or a small group, the flexibility and focus on authentic experiences make it a standout choice.

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Lunch Experiences In Sedona? Our Top 6 Picks.

Key Points

• Tailored Experience: Customizable to your preferences, from wine to beer and food.
• Multiple Stops: Visits to 6 unique locations, from vineyards to artisan chocolate shops.
• Delicious Lunch Options: Farm-to-table pasta and local wines at Merkin Osteria or beers at Belfry Brewery.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides ensure engaging, educational visits.
• Flexible Pacing: You can enjoy each stop at your own pace, making it easy to relax and savor.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes tastings, snacks, a delicious lunch, and private transportation.

The Itinerary in Detail

Alcantara Vineyards and Winery

Our journey begins at Alcantara Vineyards, known for its scenic beauty and quality wines. Guests enjoy a VIP tasting with a souvenir glass, which is a thoughtful touch that lets you remember the experience long after you leave. If you’re up for a walk, the property offers a guided tour—including views of the Chapel, the Verde River, and the confluence of Oak Creek and Verde River—plus a peek into the barrel room, where wine magic happens.

This stop is not only about tasting; it’s about soaking in the atmosphere of a true vineyard. The 30-minute duration allows enough time to savor the wines and take photos, without feeling rushed.

Cove Mesa Vineyard

Next, we move to Cove Mesa, where each guest receives a wine flight—typically four to five options—tailored to your preferences. The guide’s role here is to educate about the different wines, helping you make informed choices to match your palate. This stop offers a nice balance of education and indulgence, with 30 minutes allotted for tasting and browsing.

ChocolaTree Organic Eatery

What pairs better with wine than artisan chocolates? At ChocolaTree, you’ll find hand-made, organic confections flavored with healthier sweeteners, making this a guilt-free indulgence. Depending on scheduling, the tour may visit other local shops like Living Chocolate or Synergy Sedona, but all are known for their healthy, low-glycemic chocolates.

Here, you’ll receive $11 worth of chocolates per person, ideal for pairing with wine or micro-brews. It’s a sweet break that highlights Sedona’s craft chocolate scene.

That Brewery

For beer lovers, the next stop is That Brewery, located conveniently in the heart of the Verde Valley. Each guest gets a flight of six beers, a perfect way to sample the local micro-brews. Expect a lively atmosphere and the chance to unwind with a cold one, making it a refreshing counterpoint to wine tastings.

Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery

A highlight, especially for wine enthusiasts, is Oak Creek Vineyard. This family-friendly spot offers a diverse selection: whites, rosés, reds, dessert wines, and sparkling wines. The 50-minute visit includes a custom flight of up to five wines or a full glass, giving plenty of time to explore the different styles. Reviewers frequently mention the “delicious wines” and “beautiful views,” making this a must-visit stop.

Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria

Here, the tour takes a delicious turn with a lunch stop that many consider a favorite. The farm-to-table menu features house-made pasta, fresh vegetables, and a diverse wine flight of three wines, all crafted by a local celebrity winemaker (the owner is known for being the lead singer of Tool, Pucifer, and A Perfect Circle).

The 1 hour 30 minutes here allows relaxing conversations over great food and wine, often with stunning scenery as a backdrop. Guests praise the “delicious food” and the “diverse wine selection,” making it a true culinary highlight.

DA Ranch Vineyard

We finish on a tranquil note at DA Ranch, a smaller, picturesque vineyard with about nine acres of vines and surrounding 350 acres of natural beauty. The spring-fed pond provides a peaceful setting for tasting five signature wines, and guests might even get to keep their glass as a memento.

This stop, lasting 30 minutes, offers a more intimate experience—perfect for unwinding and appreciating the quiet beauty of the area.

How the Experience Comes Together

This tour balances educational visits with indulgent tastings and tasty food, all wrapped up in private transportation. The five-hour duration is enough to explore without feeling rushed, but it’s quite a full day, so prepare for a relaxed pace. The tour’s customizable nature means your guide will tailor stops based on your preferences, whether you’re more into wine, beer, or chocolates.

The price of $555 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in multiple tastings, a delicious lunch, and private transport, the value becomes clearer. Many reviews mention the personalized touch and the guides’ knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

Guests consistently note how well the tour is curated—“Juan was absolutely amazing,” says one reviewer, praising his knowledge and friendliness. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase local craftsmanship and beautiful scenery, making this more than just a wine tour; it’s a taste of Sedona’s vibrant local scene.

Practical Tips

• The tour is private, so it’s ideal for small groups or couples wanting an exclusive experience.
• It’s advisable to book at least a week in advance to secure your preferred date.
• Consider your preferences: are you more into wine, beer, or chocolates? The tour adapts to suit you.
• Remember, alcohol consumption is included in the flights, but extra bottles or glasses are at your expense.
• Gratuities aren’t included—most guides appreciate tips for their service.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food and drink enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local wines and craft beers. It’s also perfect for travelers who love a customizable and private outing, avoiding crowded tours. If you’re interested in scenery, good company, and authentic flavors, this tour ticks all those boxes. Families with older children, couples celebrating, or small groups of friends will find this a flexible and memorable day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, especially since it’s a private tour, making it adaptable for different ages and preferences. Service animals are allowed, which can be helpful for guests with mobility needs.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately five hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes private transportation, all wine, beer, and chocolate tastings, and a delicious lunch—usually at Merkin Osteria but adaptable based on preferences.

Can I buy additional wine or beer?
Yes, beyond the included flights, glasses and bottles are at your own expense.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a farm-to-table style lunch is part of the tour, with options including pasta, salads, or appetizers, often paired with wine.

What if I want more wine or beer?
You can purchase additional drinks on-site, but keep in mind that extra bottles or glasses aren’t included in the initial price.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book at least 7 days ahead, as the tour is popular and well-loved.

Final Thoughts

The Sedona & Verde Valley Private Wine Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded, personalized experience that combines the best of local wines, craft beers, artisan chocolates, and culinary delights. The private setting and flexible itinerary make it a fantastic choice for those who want to savor their day at their own pace, learning and indulging along the way.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, intimate experiences with knowledgeable guides—who can introduce you to Sedona’s vibrant food and beverage scene—this tour is hard to beat. From the stunning vineyard views to the carefully curated tastings and delicious farm-to-table lunch, it’s a day crafted for lovers of good taste and memorable moments.

This tour’s true charm lies in its ability to blend education with indulgence, making it a meaningful addition to your Sedona adventure. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll likely walk away with new favorites and a deeper appreciation for the Verde Valley’s local craftsmanship.