August 31, 2022, Around Town, Outdoor Activities, Tours & Attractions
Sip Your Way through Sedona

You’re swirling a glass of Chardonnay on a grassy area by the Verde River, admiring the sun’s sparkles and breathing in the aromas and flavors of locally grown peach, honeydew, and apple, when a bald eagle flies overhead. Welcome to Alcanatara Vineyards, just one of several wineries that have put Sedona on the map for oenophiles. Here, you can pair Arizona’s finest wines with views of the gorgeous Red Rock scenery—the landscape’s hues even match what vintners pour in your glass.
Our hand-picked great grape spots
Alcantara Vineyards is famous for producing wines from the rocky limestone soil and sunny climate, similar to France and Italy’s winemaking regions. Begun in 2004, it offers 17 different varietals—including the multiple-award-winning viognier—from its 20,000-plus vines. Kick back in the outdoor seating area to enjoy charcuterie and pizza, or embark on an adventure such as the water-to-wine kayaking tour of the Verde River, the SUP yoga classes on the river, and a private beach.
Javelina Leap processes about 44 tons of Arizona grapes each year and shares some of the results at its winery. A beautiful bistro serves artisan cheese, olives, and more in the Arizona Room and accompanying patio. Be sure to try the renowned Zinfandel and listen to local music while learning about the wines of the Grand Canyon state in the tasting room, which features an authentic saloon-style bar and regular visits from the winemakers.
Page Springs planted its first grapes in 2004 in one of the fastest-growing wine regions of Arizona, and its scenic setting along Oak Creek makes it a popular spot for not only tastings but yoga and massage, too. A full menu of farm-fresh bistro delights, including tapas and picnic provisions, treats visitors to the terroir before they try outdoor yoga and hoop dancing or stretch out to enjoy a therapeutic massage.
Corks & Kegs is a fully customized tour of 4 or 7 hours created by Sip Sedona Wine Tours and offered by the Sedona Real Inn that gives guests the option to visit such wineries as Merkin Vineyards Osteria, Vino Zona, Chateau Tumbleweed, Page Springs, and D.A. Ranch.
Wineries may include any of those listed above, while breweries range from Smeltertown Brewery to The Belfry. Full brewery tours include Oak Creek Brewery—with a laid-back beer garden, fire pit, and live music—to the Sedona Beer Company featuring wraparound views from its expansive outdoor space. Imagine spending an afternoon touring local wineries and breweries while enjoying a private tasting, lunch at a favorite local restaurant, taking in the Sedona landscape, and learning about the area’s history. As tour guide Dylan Jung says, “It’s not just about the wine, it’s about experiencing the Verde Valley.”