Top Places for Wine Tasting in Scottsdale, Arizona
Scottsdale, Arizona, is not just known for its luxurious spas, vibrant nightlife, and world-class golf courses. It’s also home to a burgeoning wine scene that caters to both casual sippers and dedicated oenophiles. With a variety of tasting rooms and wine bars offering diverse selections, Scottsdale is a haven for wine enthusiasts. Here’s a guide to the top places for wine tasting in Scottsdale, based on the best reviews.
LDV Winery Tasting Room
A Taste of Arizona Terroir
Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, LDV Winery Tasting Room offers a sophisticated yet welcoming environment. LDV Winery, located in the Chiricahua Mountains, brings the essence of Arizona's terroir to the city. This tasting room is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Why It’s Popular:
- Award-Winning Wines: LDV Winery’s wines have received numerous accolades for their robust flavors and quality. Their focus on Rhône varietals like Syrah, Viognier, and Petite Sirah ensures a unique tasting experience.
- Educational Experience: The staff at LDV are not just servers but passionate educators eager to share the story behind each bottle. They offer insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of their mountain-grown grapes.
- Inviting Atmosphere: The tasting room’s modern decor and friendly vibe make it an ideal spot for both serious wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room
Innovative and Diverse
The Aridus Wine Company Tasting Room, also located in Old Town Scottsdale, offers a chic, industrial setting where guests can enjoy a diverse array of wines. Aridus sources grapes from top vineyards across Arizona and New Mexico, allowing for a broad range of flavors and styles.
Why It’s Popular:
- Variety of Wines: Aridus prides itself on offering a wide selection of wines, from crisp whites like Chardonnay and Viognier to bold reds such as Malbec and Petit Verdot. This variety ensures that there is something for every palate.
- Stylish Setting: The tasting room’s industrial-chic decor, combined with rustic elements, creates a trendy yet comfortable atmosphere perfect for a relaxed wine tasting session.
- Engaging Staff: The knowledgeable and friendly staff enhance the experience, providing detailed information about the wines and the vineyards from which they originate.
Carlson Creek Vineyard Tasting Room
Family-Owned Charm
Carlson Creek Vineyard brings a slice of Arizona’s wine country to Scottsdale. Located in the Willcox AVA, Carlson Creek is known for its sustainable farming practices and high-quality wines. The Scottsdale tasting room offers a cozy and inviting space to enjoy their acclaimed selections.
Why It’s Popular:
- Personal Touch: As a family-owned vineyard, Carlson Creek offers a personal and heartfelt wine tasting experience. You might even meet a member of the Carlson family, who often share stories and insights about their winemaking journey.
- Distinctive Wines: Carlson Creek offers a range of varietals, with standout choices like Chenin Blanc, Sangiovese, and Syrah. Each wine reflects the unique terroir of their vineyard, providing a true taste of Arizona.
- Welcoming Atmosphere: The tasting room is designed to feel like a home away from home, with plenty of seating and a relaxed, friendly ambiance.
Merkin Vineyards Tasting Room & Osteria
Farm-to-Table Excellence
Merkin Vineyards, created by Maynard James Keenan, blends fine wine with gourmet dining. The Scottsdale tasting room and osteria offer a unique farm-to-table experience that highlights the best of local produce and winemaking.
Why It’s Popular:
- Farm-to-Table Philosophy: Merkin Vineyards is dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients in both their wines and their food. This commitment to quality and sustainability is evident in every sip and bite.
- Innovative Wines: The vineyard produces a variety of wines, 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
Elegant and Intimate
Salvatore Vineyards, part of the Vino Nostra family, offers a luxurious and intimate wine tasting experience in Old Town Scottsdale. Known for their small-batch, premium wines, Salvatore Vineyards focuses on quality and craftsmanship.
Why It’s Popular:
- Handcrafted Quality: Salvatore Vineyards produces wines in small batches, ensuring each bottle meets their high standards. The Sangiovese and Viognier are particularly noteworthy, offering rich and complex flavors.
- Sophisticated Setting: The tasting room exudes elegance, with plush seating, warm lighting, and a refined atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a special celebration.
- Expert Guidance: The staff at Salvatore Vineyards are knowledgeable and attentive, providing detailed descriptions and insights into each wine. Their passion for winemaking is evident and enhances the tasting experience.
Wine Girl
Fun and Vibrant
For a more casual and vibrant wine tasting experience, Wine Girl in Old Town Scottsdale is a fantastic choice. 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 It’s Popular:
- 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.
Cheers to Scottsdale’s Wine Scene
Scottsdale’s wine tasting spots offer a diverse and delightful journey through the world of wine. Whether you’re seeking the sophistication of LDV Winery Tasting Room, the innovative flavors at Aridus Wine Company, the family charm of Carlson Creek Vineyard, the farm-to-table excellence of Merkin Vineyards, the intimate elegance of Salvatore Vineyards, or the vibrant fun at Wine Girl, there’s something for every wine lover.
So, next time you’re in Scottsdale, take the time to explore these top-rated tasting rooms. Savor the flavors, enjoy the ambiance, and discover the passion behind each bottle. Cheers to unforgettable wine experiences in Scottsdale!
