Board a comfortable Mercedes van in Scottsdale and spend a day tasting boutique wines in the Verde Valley around Cottonwood and Cornville. This full-day tour blends scenic driving, vineyard visits, and small-batch tastings with hors d’oeuvres.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into a polished Mercedes van in Scottsdale and the cityscape gives way to scrubby chaparral and the rising profile of Mingus Mountain as the Verde Valley opens beneath the windshield. The drive—about 1.5 hours depending on traffic—ferries you through cottonwoods, ranchland and winding two-lane roads to small family vineyards around Cottonwood and Cornville. In tasting rooms the air smells of oak and fermenting fruit; outside, rows of vines angle toward clear desert sky.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks at vineyards and standing during tastings
Wildlife
History
The Verde Valley’s wine scene grew in the late 20th century as growers adapted warm-climate varietals to high-desert conditions near the Verde River and Mingus Mountain.
Conservation
Many local vineyards use dry-farming and water-conscious irrigation to cope with limited desert water; practice leave-no-trace at tasting sites and respect private-property rules.
Reserve your spot on the Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate between tastings
Bring a reusable water bottle and drink water between pours to avoid dehydration in the high-desert climate.
Wear sturdy shoes
Tasting rooms and vineyard grounds often have gravel or uneven surfaces—choose comfortable, closed-toe footwear.
Timing for heat
If visiting in summer, request an early pickup or plan tastings later in the afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Plan lunch separately
Lunch is not included—bring snacks if you need them, or budget time to stop at a local restaurant in Cottonwood after tastings.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through tastings and the desert heat.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protects feet on gravel tasting room paths and light vineyard walks.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Necessary protection from strong afternoon sun in the Verde Valley.
summer
Light layer or windbreaker
Evenings and higher-elevation tasting rooms can be cool; a light jacket is handy.
fall