Paddle Your Way Down Arizona's Verde River To Alcantara Vineyards For An Afternoon Of Wine Tasting
By Katie Lawrence|Published January 12, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Wine tasting is already a pretty epic experience in and of itself, and it’s only magnified when combined with something equally awesome – such as kayaking. That’s exactly the adventure you’ll undertake at Water to Wine, a float trip down the Verde River to Alcantara Vineyards.
While many rivers traverse the vast desert landscape of Arizona, none other than this mighty stream bear the name of a color. Emerald waters, towering rock walls, and abundant plant and wildlife make the Verde River an unparalleled example of Arizona nature.
Hop in a kayak for the first leg of the trip: floating down a particularly scenic stretch of the river. There are just enough rapids to add some excitement while still appealing to beginners.
Alcantara Vineyards is one of the most frequented stops along the Verde Valley Wine Trail. The Tuscan-style farmhouse features not only award-winning sips, but gorgeous scenery in the form of rolling hills that go on for miles and lush cottonwood trees.
Tickets start at $104.25, and each one includes a $20 wine tasting credit. You'll spend about an hour and a half sampling different pours and being led through the experience by a friendly sommelier. Feel free to stay longer if you'd like, just be prepared to arrange alternative transportation back home.
Delicious food that pairs flawlessly with the wine while simultaneously complimenting the Southwest culture will be offered. Nothing quite compares to a decked out cheese board to cleanse the palate between sips.