Ride A Cable Car Up Through A Vineyard (Trattoria & Winery)
Merkin Vineyards Hilltop: One of Arizona's Best Patio Dining Experiences
If you're looking for one of the most memorable winery experiences in Arizona, make the trip to Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria in Cottonwood.
Start your visit by hopping aboard the charming funicular (cable car), which carries you up the hillside through the vineyard to the hilltop restaurant. As the Verde Valley unfolds beneath you, you'll quickly understand why this has become one of our favorite places in the state.
Created by Maynard James Keenan, Merkin Vineyards has become one of Arizona's premier wineries, showcasing just how exceptional Arizona-grown grapes can be. Their wine list features an impressive selection of wines produced entirely from Arizona vineyards, making it the perfect place to experience the state's growing wine industry.
The food is every bit as memorable as the views. Our family's favorite dishes are the Wagyu Steak & Gnocchi, Lamb Meatballs and the Calabrian Pepper Pizza, packed with unique flavor and perfect for sharing alongside a glass of Arizona wine.
Traveling with kids? Merkin is surprisingly family-friendly. Our toddler can't get enough of the vibrant purple mac and cheese, naturally colored with beet powder, a fun dish that's become a tradition every time we visit.
After your meal, don't head home just yet. Ride the cable car back down the hill and stop for a scoop of Merkin's fresh gelato. It's the perfect way to end an afternoon in the Verde Valley.
The patio alone is worth the trip. Looking out across the Verde River with Sedona's iconic red rocks on the horizon, it's one of the most beautiful restaurant views in Arizona. If you time your visit during monsoon season, order a Chupacabra, settle into the patio, and watch towering thunderstorms roll across the red rocks. It's one of those Arizona moments you'll never forget.
Arizona Outpost Tips: Plan your reservation for late afternoon so you can enjoy the vineyard in daylight and stay through sunset. If monsoon clouds start building over Sedona, consider yourself lucky, you may witness one of the most spectacular patio views in the Southwest.
Purchase some canned wine for your kayaking trip down the Verde River.
Listen to Maynard’s recent interview with Steve-O on the Steve-O’s podcast where he discusses his different wine and food creations.
https://merkintrattoria.com/#menus
