A collaboration between two of Arizona’s most distinctive destinations is offering travelers a new way to experience the state’s beauty. D.A. Ranch Estate Vineyards, a family-owned winery in Verde Valley, has partnered with the acclaimed desert retreat Castle Hot Springs to unveil the Vines & Vistas experience: a fusion of high-end hospitality, winemaking, and aerial adventure.
“Castle Hot Springs is excited to partner with D.A. Ranch and expand the unique offerings available to our guests,” Director of Marketing Scott McGinty said. “The Vines & Vistas package promises an unforgettable journey, taking guests on a spectacular helicopter tour of the Sedona red rocks before landing at D.A. Ranch for a private tasting and tour of one of Arizona’s premier vineyards.”
The journey begins in the skies, with a private helicopter tour operated by Scottsdale-based Western Sky Helicopters, offering a bird’s-eye view of iconic red rock formations.
Upon landing, guests are welcomed to an estate often described as one of Arizona’s hidden gems, steeped in authenticity, surrounded by natural beauty, and infused with a sense of laid-back elegance. A guide leads a walk through the vineyard, sharing stories behind the estate and its winemaking process. The experience continues with a tasting flight featuring varietals such as Petite Sirah, Seyval Blanc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
“This experience takes guests straight from the sky into the heart of our story. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and grounding,” D.A. Owner Olen Petznick said. “Our goal is for every sip to surprise, connect, and leave guests with something they didn’t see coming.”
Guests can enhance their visit with curated add-ons like charcuterie boards, fresh flowers, or custom-designed keepsakes. For those wishing to take a piece of the experience home, D.A. Ranch offers reserve wine gift bags filled with their estate olive oil, Gayle’s Chocolates, and other signature items.
“This experience is for steeping in life’s big moments, whether it’s a milestone celebration, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure,” CEO Alexis Petznick said. “This excursion is a celebration of Arizona itself, where the art of luxury, wellness, and winemaking come together in a way you won’t find anywhere else.”
The Vines & Vistas experience is exclusively available to registered overnight guests of Castle Hot Springs. Each reservation includes the helicopter flight, private vineyard tour, tasting flight, resort credit, and opportunities to customize the day. Learn more at castlehotsprings.com or daranch.com.
