An Evening in Old Town

Planning a visit to Sedona and looking for an experience that combines history, local charm, and wine? This “An Evening in Old Town” tour offers just that—a private, well-rounded evening that promises a taste of Arizona’s wine country with a side of scenic charm. While it’s priced at $555 per person, the value comes from the thoughtfully curated itinerary, exclusive access, and the intimate atmosphere that makes it feel truly special.

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a relaxed, social night out with a focus on wine tasting, delicious food, and cultural sights. What we love about it: the personalized vibe with just your group, the chance to sample some of the best Arizona wines, and the chance to take a bottle home as a keepsake. One thing to consider, however, is the cost—it’s on the pricier side, but for many, the quality and exclusivity justify the expense. It’s best suited for those who enjoy wine, good food, and a touch of local history in an intimate setting.

Good To Know

• Private Experience: Only your group and a guide, creating a tailored, relaxed atmosphere.
• All-Inclusive: Includes entrance fees, multiple wine tastings, and a full dinner.
• Food & Drink: Features breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with wine tastings.
• Memorable Keepsake: Each guest receives a bottle of wine to take home.
• Convenient Pickup: Starts at Vino di Sedona, with pickup offered to ease your experience.
• Duration: About four hours, perfect for an evening outing without feeling rushed.

Exploring Old Town Cottonwood: A Closer Look

Old Town Cottonwood is a charming area filled with vintage architecture, lively streets, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of small-town Arizona. It’s well-known for its wine tasting rooms, which showcase some of the best local wines—perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Arizona’s wine scene.

What makes this tour special is the guided experience, which ensures you’re not just wandering aimlessly but getting a curated taste of the town’s highlights. The guide, described as friendly and knowledgeable, takes you through the streets, providing context about the history and local culture that adds depth to the experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Historic Old Town Cottonwood

Your adventure begins here, with a walk through the vibrant streets lined with historic buildings that have been beautifully preserved. It’s a scenic journey, and the guide is quick to point out interesting details about the architecture and the area’s past.

Wine Tasting Flights: You’ll enjoy three tastings per person, each showcasing Arizona’s diverse wine offerings. The quality of the wines is often praised; one review mentioned the “excellent wine selection,” which indicates a thoughtful curation. The tastings give a well-rounded view of the local wine industry, from light whites to more robust reds, making it ideal for both novices and seasoned wine lovers.

Authentic Atmosphere: Many reviewers noted that the private aspect of this tour makes it feel exclusive and personal. The guide’s insights help you appreciate what you’re sipping, making each flight more meaningful.

Dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria

After the tastings, you’ll be treated to a full dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria. The meal includes an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a glass of wine. The reviews highlight the restaurant’s charming setting and excellent food, which perfectly complements the wine experience. Expect a cozy atmosphere with dishes that reflect the local flavors, elevating the evening into a culinary delight.

Sample menu items: While not specified, the focus on quality suggests flavorful options that pair nicely with Arizona wines, with the added bonus of a glass of wine included with dinner.

The Takeaway: A Bottle of Wine

Each guest leaves with a bottle of wine—valued up to $45—serving as a perfect souvenir. Many guests have expressed appreciation for this thoughtful touch, providing a tangible memory of the night to enjoy later or gift to someone special.

Practical Details That Matter

Transportation & Meeting Point

The tour starts at Vino di Sedona, located at 2575 AZ-89A, Sedona. Pickup service is offered, easing transportation worries, especially after a day of wine tasting. The tour ends back at the starting point, so you won’t need to worry about arranging separate transport.

Duration & Group Size

A solid four-hour experience means you’ll have ample time to relax, sip, and savor without feeling rushed. As a private tour, it’s limited to your party, ensuring a more personal and immersive experience. This setup is particularly appealing for couples, small groups, or special celebrations.

Cost & Value

At $555 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s designed to offer a premium, all-inclusive experience. The price covers three wine tastings, a full dinner, a bottle of wine, digital photos, and personalized attention—all of which adds up to a comprehensive evening that many find worth the expense.

Weather & Clothing

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is advised. Sedona’s evenings can be cooler, especially after sunset, so bring layers. Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Insights From Guest Feedback

While no official reviews are available, the descriptions and features suggest you’ll appreciate the intimate setting and quality of the wine selection. The mention of “excellent wine” and the personalized nature of the tour indicate that the experience is carefully curated to give you a taste of Arizona’s best.

Guests have highlighted the value of having all entrance fees included, so there are no hidden costs. The dinner at Merkin Hilltop Trattoria has also been praised for its charming ambiance and delicious food, adding a genuine local flavor to the evening.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to explore Arizona’s wine scene in a relaxed, private setting. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples wanting a memorable, intimate night out. If you enjoy good food, meaningful conversations, and a touch of local history, this tour will appeal.

However, be prepared for the price—if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options. Also, since it’s a longer evening activity, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a few hours of strolling, tasting, and dining.

Final Thoughts

This “An Evening in Old Town” tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines the charm of historic Cottonwood with Arizona’s celebrated wine culture. The private setting, thoughtful tastings, and delicious dinner make it a great choice for those wanting to indulge and create lasting memories.

The inclusion of a bottle of wine makes it more than just a night out; it’s a keepsake of a special Arizona evening. While the cost is notable, the quality of the experience—personalized attention, excellent wines, and an authentic atmosphere—can justify the expense for many.

If you’re after a relaxed, wine-focused evening with good food and a chance to soak in local history, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure to book early, as the exclusivity and limited availability tend to make it popular.

FAQ

Is this tour private? Yes, it is a private tour operated only with your group and a guide/driver.
What’s included in the price? The tour includes all entrance fees, three wine tastings, dinner, bottled water, a bottle of wine (up to $45), and digital photos.
Where does the tour start? It begins at Vino di Sedona, 2575 AZ-89A, Sedona, with pickup offered.
How long does the tour last? Approximately four hours, making it an ideal evening activity.
What kind of food is served at dinner? A full meal with an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and a glass of wine—details depend on the restaurant menu.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated? Please advise at the time of booking; most needs can likely be managed.
Is this tour suitable in bad weather? Yes, it operates in all weather conditions—dress appropriately for the weather.
What is the maximum group size? Since it’s private, only your party will participate.
Are service animals allowed? Yes, they are permitted.
What is the value of this experience? It offers a personalized, all-inclusive evening combining history, wine, and dining, making it a memorable and worthwhile outing for wine enthusiasts.