From the Main Street level of Old Town Cottonwood, the next generation of Maynard James and Jennifer Keenan’s Merkin Vineyards empire looks something like a heavy-metal adaptation of a verdant village straight out of a George R.R. Martin novel.
At its base, a new gelateria is printed bright blue and serves seasonal flavors crafted by gelato master Kelley E. Foy. A tram awaits to whisk visitors away among cascading grapevines that hug the hill that leads to the bucolic beacon at the top.
It’s there you’ll find Merkin’s new winery and cellar, tasting room*, greenhouse and award-winning trattoria serving creative concoctions by chef Chris Smith. The fall weather is perfect for dining al fresco while you sip your Shinola Red and set your sights on stunning 270-degree views of the Verde Valley below. The menu includes classic Italian favorites with a creative spin like wood-oven pizzas, handmade cupcake-shaped pasta entrees, creamy Merkin mac and cheese, cannoli and more.
Be sure to stop by the shop to pick up a souvenir T-shirt and a bottle or two… or 20. The top-notch staff will even chill them for you.
The Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria grand opening is Friday, October 6 and will be open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Merkin Vineyards Pocket Park Gelateria will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
*The VSC (Velvet Slippers Club) Ventura Room is reservation-only and includes a private, 90-minute vineyard and facility tour, guided wine tasting and features food from the trattoria.
760 Verde Heights Dr., Cottonwood
For more information, visit caduceus.org and merkinvineyards.org or follow on social media at @caduceuscellars @merkinvineyards @merkintrattoria and @merkinosteria.
