The Verde Valley Wine Festival (VVWF) is back and better than ever, showcasing some of Arizona’s best wines. This premier wine and culinary event will be held at the Riverfront Park (1284 E. River Front Road) in the City of Cottonwood, known as the “Heart of Arizona Wine Country,” on May 19 and 20.
With the recent designation of Verde Valley as an American Viticultural Area–the federal government’s official specification as an official grape-growing region–the festival provides the perfect opportunity to highlight the wide variety of wines Arizona has to offer. This idyllic locale is the perfect backdrop for this special event, tucked beneath the shade of the trees beside the beautiful Verde River. Festival-goers will have the chance to explore the area’s rich history and experience the welcoming small town atmosphere of Verde Valley. Cottonwood is host to an array of sites and outdoor activities when festival goers aren’t sampling the quality libations.
The jam-packed weekend kicks off with the “First Crush VVWF Gala & Auction” at the Old Town Cottonwood Clubhouse. The live auction will provide ticket holders the unique opportunity to bid on exclusive wine and travel packages as well as one-of-a-kind items curated by local artists. Proceeds will go to nonprofit partners who made this special event possible. The auction will feature live music, premium wine and diverse culinary options. Tickets are limited and priced at $150 per person.
Saturday’s festival officially opens at 11 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $35 online and $45 at the door, which includes a commemorative glass and eight tasting tickets. Attendees from across the Valley will have the opportunity to experience over 20 of Arizona’s finest wineries, distilleries and breweries while also being able to browse homegrown products crafted by local vendors. Live music will be provided by The Guitar Brothers, What’s The Big Idea and Jenn McMillan. Special group seating will be offered with a limited number of 10-top tables on sale for $1,200.
The festival is being run in collaboration with three nonprofit organizations: Verde Valley Wine Consortium, Arizona Wine Grower’s Association and Arizona Vignerons Alliance. These organizations hope to expand the influence of Arizona as a wine region domestically and internationally by advancing wine culture, education and tourism while ensuring quality and authenticity of all products.
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual wine lover looking for a fun weekend, you won’t want to miss out on this festival. With an array of delicious wines and culinary delights to sample, plus live music and entertainment, this festival is not to be missed. For tickets and more information, visit www.verdevalleywinefestival.com.
