An Evening in Old Town

If you’re searching for a way to slow down and savor the flavors of Arizona’s wine country while enjoying a bit of local charm, the “An Evening in Old Town” tour from Wine Tours of Sedona might just be worth considering. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, this private four-hour experience offers a blend of history, gastronomy, and wine tasting that appeals to travelers looking for a relaxed yet enriching evening.

What gets us excited about this tour? First, the personalized nature—it’s private, so you won’t be part of a large crowd, and you’ll have a guide tailored to your party’s interests. Second, the combination of wine tasting and a full dinner offers notable value, especially with three tastings and a memorable meal included. That said, one point to keep in mind is the price—at $555 per person, it’s an investment, but for those seeking a curated experience, it could be well worth it.

This tour is best suited for visitors who appreciate good wine, enjoy local history, and want a comfortable, all-inclusive evening. It’s not for the budget traveler or those seeking a more active outdoor adventure, but if you’re after an elegant yet authentic taste of Arizona’s wine scene, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Operates with just your group and a guide/driver, ensuring personalized attention.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, meals, wine tastings, and a bottle of wine to take home are included.
• Culinary Focus: Includes a full dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria with appetizers, entrees, desserts, and a glass of wine.
• Wine Sampling: Enjoy three wine tasting flights per person, plus a bottle of wine (up to $45) to take home.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup offered from your accommodation, and digital photos included to remember your evening.
• Weather-Ready & Family-Friendly: Operates in all weather conditions; service animals are allowed and most travelers can participate.

Experience Overview: What to Expect From the Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

Your evening begins at Vino di Sedona in Sedona, a convenient location that sets the tone for a relaxed, wine-loving adventure. The tour lasts about four hours, so you’ll want to clear your evening for this leisurely outing. Because it’s a private tour, you get the flexibility of a tailored experience—your guide will focus on your group’s interests, making it feel more like a personal outing than a generic group tour.

Exploring Old Town Cottonwood

The highlight of this experience is the visit to Historic Old Town Cottonwood, a charming area that radiates small-town character. The guide will take you through the streets lined with unique architecture, local shops, and vibrant atmosphere. The real draw, however, is the wine tasting rooms, which showcase some of Arizona’s best offerings.

You’ll get to sample three different wine flights, allowing you to explore a range of local varieties. Based on reviews, the wine selection is frequently praised for its quality and variety—something to look forward to if you’re a wine enthusiast. Expect the tastings to be handled by knowledgeable staff who will guide you through each flight, describing the nuances and helping you appreciate the local flavors.

The Dinner Experience

After the wine tastings, your evening continues at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner with an appetizer, main course, and dessert, all paired with a glass of wine. The setting is described as charming, complementing the relaxed yet refined nature of the tour.

The inclusion of a full meal is a significant value add, especially considering the quality and variety of the dishes. The dinner provides a perfect opportunity to unwind, discuss the wines tasted, and soak in the local ambiance.

Take-Home Wine & Digital Photos

As a parting gift, each person receives a bottle of wine (up to $45) to take home—an excellent memento of your evening. Plus, digital photos are included, capturing your experience for you to keep as memories.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

First Stop: Old Town Cottonwood

The tour kicks off in Cottonwood’s historic district, a spot that perfectly blends old Arizona charm with contemporary vibrancy. The guide’s commentary will likely touch on the area’s history and architecture, providing context that makes the experience more meaningful.

Stopping at various wine tasting rooms, you’ll have the chance to sample and compare Arizona wines, which are often underappreciated outside local circles. The emphasis on Arizona’s wine country shows that this region is more than just scenic views; it’s a serious producer of quality wines, with a variety of styles.

Wine Tasting Flights

The three tastings per person are a highlight, and reviews suggest the wine selection is well-curated. Expect to taste a mixture of reds and whites, possibly including local favorites. The guide’s insights will help you understand what makes Arizona wines unique, whether it’s the terroir, the grapes used, or the winemaking style.

Dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria

This restaurant offers a cozy yet elegant setting, perfect for wrapping up a wine-focused evening. The meal is described as comprehensive, covering an appetizer, entrée, and dessert, paired with a glass of wine. This pairing elevates the experience, helping you appreciate how different flavors complement each other.

Final Touches: Take-Home Wine & Photos

The bottle of wine will be a cherished keepsake, especially since it’s up to $45 in value. The digital photos are a thoughtful addition, allowing you to relive the memories of your evening whenever you like.

What Reviewers Say (Based on Available Feedback)

While there are no formal reviews yet, the emphasis on excellent wine selection and the inclusion of a full meal stand out. Travelers appreciate the personalized private tour and the chance to enjoy Arizona wines in a relaxed setting. The dinner at a charming restaurant, combined with the wine tastings, makes for a well-rounded experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and appropriately for weather—the tour operates in all conditions, so layers are advised.
• Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the photos included in the package.
• Consider dietary restrictions—the tour asks for any special dietary needs at booking.
• Book early—since it’s a private experience, scheduling might be limited, and the price reflects a premium, personalized service.

Final Summary: Is This Tour Right For You?

This private “An Evening in Old Town” tour offers a unique chance to explore Arizona’s wine scene with a personal touch. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a curated, relaxed evening combining history, wine, and good food. The all-inclusive approach simplifies planning, ensuring you can truly unwind and enjoy the experience without worrying about extra costs.

For travelers who value quality over quantity, and who enjoy engaging conversations about local wines while enjoying a flavorful meal, this experience provides a balanced blend of education, relaxation, and indulgence. Its emphasis on authentic Arizona wine and charming local dining makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to deepen their appreciation of the region’s culinary offerings.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be accessible. Service animals are allowed, and the tour operates in all weather.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, all entrance fees, three wine tasting flights, a full dinner with an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a glass of wine, plus a bottle of wine to take home and digital photos.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide will focus on your group’s interests. Specific dietary needs can be communicated at booking.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, including travel, tastings, dinner, and time to enjoy the atmosphere.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Vino di Sedona in Sedona and concludes back at the same location.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour operates rain or shine.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered from your accommodation, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll enjoy three tasting flights, which typically highlight Arizona wines, known for their quality and unique characteristics.

What if I want to buy more wine?
Wines beyond the three tastings and the one bottle included are not covered, so additional purchases are at your own expense.

“An Evening in Old Town” presents a thoughtful way to experience Arizona’s wine culture amid the friendly charm of Cottonwood. The focus on personalized service, combined with quality tastings and a delicious dinner, makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a leisurely, memorable night out. While the price may seem steep at first glance, the all-inclusive nature and the chance to enjoy some of the best local wines make it a solid value for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just wanting to enjoy a refined taste of Sedona’s surroundings, this tour offers a pleasant balance of relaxation and discovery that’s hard to beat.