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Merkin Vineyards Old Town Scottsdale, Maricopa County Travel Guide

4.7 (385)

Discover Arizona's bold wines and farm-fresh flavors in Scottsdale's Old Town at Merkin Vineyards—a sustainable tasting room blending vineyard heritage with casual trattoria charm.

Merkin Vineyards Old Town Scottsdale offered a 100% Arizona wine tasting experience in the heart of Scottsdale's vibrant 5th Avenue Shops district. Featuring wines from estate vineyards in Verde Valley and Willcox, paired with seasonal farm-to-table pizzas, pastas, charcuterie, and salads using local ingredients. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and unique Arizona focus, it was a popular stop on the Scottsdale Wine Trail until its abrupt closure due to lease expiration.

A brief summary to Merkin Vineyards Old Town Scottsdale

  • 7133 E Stetson Dr Suite 105, Scottsdale, 5th Avenue Shops & Boutiques, Arizona, 85251, US
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  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Merkin Vineyards Old Town Scottsdale.

  • Opt for the local wine flight to sample standouts like Chupacabra Red and Shinola Rosado, paired with customizable charcuterie boards.
  • Build your own artisan board with local cheeses, meats, and Noble Bread for a fun, shareable 'adult Lunchables' experience.
  • Reserve a back booth for an intimate tasting with storytelling from knowledgeable staff.
  • Pair pizzas like Crucifixen or Sacred Cow with Tarzan Red for perfect flavor harmony.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    15-20 min drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport via AZ-101 E, $10-15 parking nearby, ample street spots in Old Town.

  • Rideshare

    Uber/Lyft from downtown Scottsdale 5-7 min, $8-12 one-way, drop-off at 5th Avenue Shops.

  • Walking

    10-min walk from Scottsdale Fashion Square via Camelback Rd, flat sidewalks in pedestrian-friendly district.

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Discover more about Merkin Vineyards Old Town Scottsdale

Overview

Nestled at 7133 E Stetson Dr Suite 105 in Scottsdale's lively Old Town, Merkin Vineyards provided an authentic taste of Arizona winemaking. Owned by Grammy-winning musician Maynard James Keenan, the tasting room showcased wines crafted from 110 acres of estate vineyards in Verde Valley and Willcox. The space blended winery tasting with casual dining, emphasizing regional sustainability and a strong sense of place.

Wine Selection

Guests savored flights of distinctive Arizona wines like Chupacabra Red, Shinola Red, Tarzan Red, Anubis, Queen Bee Mead, and the light, dry Shinola Rosado made from 100% Sangiovese. These varietals offered notes of strawberry, tannins, and refreshing acidity, perfect for Arizona's warm climate. Tastings were educational, with staff sharing stories behind each bottle, highlighting the winery's commitment to local production.

Cuisine and Menu

The menu evolved from small plates to a full trattoria-style offering, featuring wood-fired pizzas like Salsiccia with fennel sausage and Funghi with roasted mushrooms, handmade pastas such as Cavatelli Pesto and Gnocchi with Prosciutto di Parma, and antipasti including Arancini, Burrata, and Grilled Lamb Meatballs. Salads like Merkin Orchard with endive, citrus, and burrata used farm-fresh ingredients from the Keenan family farm and local sources. Charcuterie boards allowed customization with artisan cheeses and meats, often described as 'Lunchables for adults.'

Atmosphere and Experience

The venue exuded a cozy yet roomy vibe, with beautiful, laid-back decor ideal for couples, friends, or solo visitors. Back booths offered an exclusive feel for tastings, while the overall setting felt relaxing and welcoming. Service stood out for its attentiveness, knowledge, and politeness, making visitors feel valued. It was a favored spot for girls' weekends, birthdays, and casual drops-ins before or after dinners.

Legacy and Closure

Operating for five years, Merkin became a Scottsdale Wine Trail highlight, drawing crowds for its unique 100% Arizona ethos. It hosted events like pre-concert tastings for Keenan's Sessanta shows. The location closed permanently when its lease ended, with plans announced for relocation elsewhere in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area. Neighbors and Google listings confirmed the shuttering, shifting focus to Verde Valley sites.

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