The 3 Best Wine Tours in Phoenix
Phoenix might seem like just a desert city, but it’s also a surprising hub for wine lovers seeking memorable experiences. Whether you’re floating effortlessly in a hot air balloon, enjoying a guided tour through the scenic vineyards south of Tucson, or savoring tastings at top local wineries, the Phoenix area offers diverse ways to indulge your palate.
In this guide, we’ll explore three standout options: a serene hot air balloon ride with champagne, an extended private wine tour in Southern Arizona, and a scenic vineyard visit with tastings and lunch. Each offers a unique way to appreciate the region’s wine culture, with different levels of adventure, exclusivity, and scenery.
If you’re after an adrenaline-free, picture-perfect experience, the balloon rides are hard to beat. For those craving a full-day, personalized exploration of vineyards, the private tour provides a leisurely, tailor-made day. And if you want to combine wine tasting with stunning desert views and gourmet food, the Southern Arizona trip is ideal.
1. Phoenix: Hot Air Balloon Flight with Champagne
This hot air balloon ride offers a peaceful float over the Arizona desert. For $209 per person, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours in the air and on the ground, which includes a celebratory glass of champagne and light snacks. The ride is led by experienced pilots, ensuring a safe and smooth experience, with 273 reviews rating it 4.8/5.
What makes this trip special is the perspective it gives of Phoenix and its surrounding landscapes. You’ll hover high above the mountains and desert floor, feeling the gentle breeze in your hair. The unique vantage point allows you to see the city skyline mixing with rugged wilderness — a view few get to experience. The friendly crew and attentive pilot make safety and comfort a priority, which is reassuring given the altitude and open-air nature of the flight.
Guests often comment on the memorable views and the “memory maker that will last a lifetime,” as one reviewer put it. The inclusion of champagne to toast your flight adds a celebratory touch, making it perfect for couples or friends celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: This tour is a fantastic option for those seeking a tranquil, scenic adventure with the thrill of flight and a commemorative toast. It’s especially suited for first-time balloon flyers or anyone looking for an unforgettable photo op in a beautiful setting.
2. Phoenix: Hot Air Balloon Ride with Champagne and Catering
At $247 per person, the hot air balloon ride with champagne and catering elevates the experience further with a gourmet touch. This 3.5-hour adventure takes you over Phoenix and its scenic surroundings at around 3000 feet in the air, providing expansive views of the Sonoran Desert. The flight is complemented by a champagne toast and a delicious breakfast or brunch, with the crew adding personal touches like a birthday cake if needed.
This tour is praised for its professional, friendly pilots and the well-organized experience that makes everyone feel safe and engaged. Guests often highlight the beautiful sunset views, with one reviewer noting the “outstanding flight over the desert and Lake Pleasant,” and the combination of champagne and a picnic afterward as a perfect way to unwind.
What sets this apart is the focus on comfort and culinary enjoyment. It’s best suited for travelers who want a more luxurious experience with impressive scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of detailed commentary about local wildlife and points of interest makes it educational as well as scenic.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a slightly more upscale experience that combines stunning flight views with gourmet food and drinks, this trip is a top choice. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or for a memorable day out with friends.
3. Southern Arizona Private Wine Tour South of Tucson – Sonoita-Elgin Vineyards
This private wine tour costs $521 per person and offers a full-day exploration of Southern Arizona’s renowned vineyards. Departing from Phoenix, the trip takes about 2.5 hours to reach the picturesque wine country south of Tucson. The itinerary includes visits to three wineries or tasting rooms, with tastings and a gourmet lunch included. The tour provides comfortable, air-conditioned transportation so you can relax and soak in the scenery.
At Charron Vineyards & Winery, you’ll enjoy tastings at 4,200 feet elevation, where the warm days and cool nights favor grape growing. The experience is personalized, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local landscape, grape varieties, and wine-making process. Guests appreciate the delicious wine flights and the spectacular views of the Santa Rita Mountains. The day’s highlight is often the gourmet lunch amid vineyard surroundings, making for a well-rounded experience.
While this tour has no reviews yet, its emphasis on private, tailored experiences and scenic countryside makes it appealing to wine connoisseurs and those craving a luxurious, intimate outing. The longer duration allows for a relaxed pace, tasting at multiple wineries, and enjoying the desert sunset.
Bottom Line: This is a perfect choice for serious wine lovers wanting a curated, flexible day in wine country. It’s best suited for groups who want to explore multiple wineries with personalized attention and a scenic backdrop.
How to Choose
Selecting among these options depends on your interests and how much time you want to devote. For a quick, scenic thrill, the hot air balloon rides are ideal — perfect if you’re seeking a peaceful, photo-worthy adventure with champagne. The upscale balloon experience with catering offers a touch more comfort and culinary delight, suited for special occasions.
If you prefer a deeper dive into local wines and scenery, the full-day private tour of Southern Arizona’s vineyards provides a personalized, relaxed way to taste multiple wines and enjoy a gourmet lunch. Consider your budget: the balloon rides are in the $209-$247 range, while the private tour is at $521—reflecting differences in scope and exclusivity.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons like spring and fall when the weather is ideal for ballooning and vineyard visits. Check availability ahead of time, as these experiences are popular.
Final thoughts
Phoenix offers a range of wine and adventure experiences that cater to different tastes. For a peaceful, scenic flight with a celebratory toast, the hot air balloon rides are hard to beat. Those looking for a more exclusive, leisurely day in the vineyards should consider the private Southern Arizona tour. And if your goal is a combination of wine tasting, stunning desert scenery, and gourmet dining, the second balloon experience hits that sweet spot.
No matter which option you choose, booking early will ensure you get the best times and the experience you’re dreaming of. With such diverse choices, there’s no reason not to indulge in the local beauty and flavors of Arizona’s wine country.