Wine Tasting in Scottsdale, Arizona

Sipping in Scottsdale: A Guide to the Best Wine Tasting Spots

Scottsdale, Arizona, known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and vibrant art scene, also boasts a thriving wine culture that’s waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just beginning your wine journey, Scottsdale offers an array of fantastic wine tasting spots that promise to delight your palate. Join me as we explore some of the best-rated places for wine tasting in Scottsdale, where each sip tells a story and every glass brings you closer to the heart of Arizona’s burgeoning wine scene.

LDV Winery Tasting Room

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, the LDV Winery Tasting Room offers a welcoming and elegant environment for wine lovers. LDV Winery, located in the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona, brings its mountain-grown grapes to the city, offering a taste of Arizona's high desert terroir.

Why You’ll Love It:

Award-Winning Wines: LDV Winery’s wines have garnered numerous accolades, and it’s easy to see why. Their focus on Rhône varietals like Syrah, Viognier, and Petite Sirah produces robust and flavorful wines that reflect the unique characteristics of their vineyard.
Elegant Tasting Room: The tasting room itself is chic and inviting, with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their wines. They’re always ready to share the story behind each bottle and guide you through a memorable tasting experience.
Wine Education: LDV offers wine education events and private tastings, making it a great place to deepen your understanding of wine in a relaxed and friendly setting.

Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room

Another gem in Old Town Scottsdale is the Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room. Aridus sources grapes from some of the best vineyards across Arizona and New Mexico, creating a diverse and exciting lineup of wines.

Why You’ll Love It:

Varietal Diversity: Aridus offers an impressive range of wines, from crisp whites like Viognier and Chardonnay to bold reds like Malbec and Petit Verdot. There’s something to suit every palate.
Stylish Atmosphere: The tasting room combines industrial chic with warm, rustic elements, creating a stylish yet comfortable space to enjoy your wine tasting. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience with their enthusiasm and expertise.
Wine Club: For those who fall in love with Aridus wines, the wine club offers exclusive access to limited-release wines, member-only events, and special discounts.

Carlson Creek Vineyard Tasting Room

Carlson Creek Vineyard brings a piece of Arizona’s wine country to the heart of Scottsdale. Located in the Willcox AVA, one of Arizona’s prime wine-growing regions, Carlson Creek focuses on sustainable farming practices and producing high-quality wines.

Why You’ll Love It:

Family-Owned Charm: This family-owned winery prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere and the passion they pour into their wines. You’ll often find members of the Carlson family on hand to share their stories and insights.
Distinctive Wines: Carlson Creek offers a variety of wines that showcase the best of Arizona’s terroir. Their Chenin Blanc, Sangiovese, and Syrah are particularly popular, offering unique flavor profiles that reflect the vineyard’s distinct climate and soil.
Relaxed Setting: The tasting room has a laid-back vibe, with plenty of seating and a cozy ambiance that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy your tasting.

Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria

Merkin Vineyards, the brainchild of Maynard James Keenan (of Tool and A Perfect Circle fame), offers a unique blend of fine wine and delicious food. The Scottsdale tasting room and osteria combine the best of both worlds, making it a must-visit for food and wine lovers.

Why You’ll Love It:

Farm-to-Table Philosophy: Merkin Vineyards is committed to a farm-to-table philosophy, using locally sourced ingredients in both their wines and their food. This commitment to quality and sustainability shines through in every sip and bite.
Innovative Wines: Merkin’s wines are as eclectic and innovative as their creator. The vineyard produces a range of varietals, including Albariño, Malvasia Bianca, and Tempranillo, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Gourmet Pairings: The osteria offers a menu of gourmet dishes designed to complement the wines perfectly. From artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to fresh pasta and seasonal salads, the food enhances the wine tasting experience.

Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room

Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room offers an intimate and upscale setting to enjoy handcrafted Arizona wines. Salvatore Vineyards, part of the Vino Nostra family, is known for producing small-batch, premium wines.

Why You’ll Love It:

Handcrafted Quality: Salvatore Vineyards focuses on quality over quantity, producing small batches of wine that reflect the winemaker’s dedication to excellence. Their wines, such as the rich and complex Sangiovese and the elegant Viognier, are a testament to this commitment.
Luxurious Ambiance: The tasting room exudes sophistication, with plush seating, warm lighting, and a refined atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date or a special occasion.
Expert Guidance: The staff at Salvatore Vineyards are knowledgeable and attentive, providing detailed descriptions and insights into each wine. Their passion for wine is evident and enhances the tasting experience.

Wine Girl

For a more casual and vibrant wine tasting experience, head to Wine Girl in Old Town Scottsdale. This trendy wine bar offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy some fantastic wines.

Why You’ll Love It:

Instagram-Worthy Decor: Wine Girl’s chic and colorful decor is perfect for capturing those Instagram moments. The stylish interior, complete with neon signs and cozy seating areas, sets the stage for a fun evening out.
Diverse Wine Selection: The wine list at Wine Girl features a curated selection of wines from around the world, including some local Arizona favorites. Whether you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll find something to love.
Interactive Tasting: Wine Girl offers interactive wine tasting experiences, such as wine flights and themed tasting events. It’s a great way to explore different wines and learn more about your preferences in a lively setting.

LDV Wine Gallery

Another excellent spot in Old Town Scottsdale is the LDV Wine Gallery. This tasting room offers a sophisticated environment where you can sample wines from LDV Winery, which is known for its exceptional Rhone varietals.

Why You’ll Love It:

Elegant Setting: The LDV Wine Gallery is tastefully decorated, providing a serene and elegant atmosphere for wine tasting. The outdoor patio is particularly lovely, offering a peaceful spot to enjoy your wine.
Exceptional Wines: LDV’s wines are crafted from estate-grown grapes and reflect the unique terroir of their vineyard in the Chiricahua Mountains. The Grenache and Syrah are particularly noteworthy, offering rich flavors and a smooth finish.
Educational Tasting: The staff at LDV Wine Gallery are passionate about wine and eager to share their knowledge. Each tasting session includes detailed information about the wines and the winemaking process, enhancing your appreciation and understanding of each glass.

Uncorking the Fun in Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, is a wine lover’s dream with its diverse array of tasting rooms and wine bars. Whether you’re looking for an elegant and sophisticated tasting experience or a fun and casual night out, Scottsdale has something to offer. The top-rated spots, such as LDV Winery Tasting Room, Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room, Carlson Creek Vineyard Tasting Room, Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria, Salvatore Vineyards Tasting Room, Wine Girl, and LDV Wine Gallery, each provide unique experiences that showcase the best of Arizona’s wine scene.

So, the next time you’re in Scottsdale, take some time to explore these fantastic wine tasting spots. Savor the flavors, learn about the wines, and enjoy the company of fellow wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, Scottsdale’s wine culture promises a delightful adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and perhaps a few new favorite bottles to take home. Cheers to discovering the vibrant world of wine in Scottsdale!

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