TOOL’S MAYNARD JAMES KEENAN UNVEILS NEW WINERY

Guess what? You’re favorite TOOL man Maynard James Keenan, is stepping into a whole arena – a vineyard. Yup, you read that right. The man’s not just creating some of the best lyrical pocket play ; he’s raising glasses too. Keenan and his crew at Caduceus Cellars And Merkin Vineyards are rolling out the red carpet for wine enthusiasts, and even if you don’t know a Merlot from a Metallica riff, this news is worth raising a glass to.

Picture this: Cottonwood, Arizona, a place that’s not just about cacti and cowboy boots. Keenan’s been cooking up something special here for two decades – a spot that’s about to redefine how you see Arizona and its wine scene.  Introducing the Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria, and the Caduceus Cellars Hilltop Facility and VSC Ventura Room. Translation: a fancy new winery, a space-age-sounding cellar, a tasting room that’s like a playground for grown-ups, and a restaurant that’ll make your taste buds sing.

This place is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Verde Valley, and it’s not just about sipping on the good stuff. In true form, it’s a full-on experience, and Keenan knows just how to get you in the mood.

“One of the things I discovered when it comes to bridging the hurdle of exposing people to Arizona wine is context,” he says. What’s context? Imagine wandering into a desert oasis – but with vines, not palm trees. There’s a lush five-acre vineyard, a winery that’s like a science lab for wine geeks, and even a full-blown kitchen. Oh, and did we mention a greenhouse that’s not just for plants, but for cooking up the freshest food too? 

 Caduceus Cellars’ spot is like a backstage pass to the world of winemaking. You get to explore their fancy production facility, peek at a vineyard that’s all about grapes with snazzy names like Graciano, Tempranillo, and Garnacha, and even get a taste of VIP treatment in their Velvet Slippers Club tasting room. And don’t worry if you’re not a wine snob – they’ll fill you in on the secrets behind the scenes.

Now, if you’re thinking, “Hold up, what about the food?”, don’t worry, they’ve got that covered too. The Merkin Vineyards Hilltop Winery & Trattoria is like a foodie’s dream come true. There’s a restaurant that’s not just a restaurant; it’s a 6,600-square-foot masterpiece run by Chef Chris Smith. Think fresh salads that practically sing, handmade pastas that’ll make your mouth water, and wood-oven pizzas that are like a hug for your taste buds. Oh, and the view? A 270-degree marvel that’ll make your Instagram followers super jealous.

And if you’re more about the sweet stuff, they’ve got you covered too. The Merkin Vineyards Pocket Park Gelateria is like an ice cream parlor that’s been to wine school. (Sounds like a school I would thrive in) You can grab some artisanal gelato (my personal favorite), and they’ll even toss in a token for a tram ride that takes you up the hill – a nod to the area’s copper mining history. Gelato and history, anyone?

Now, if you’re itching to be part of this wine wonderland, mark your calendar for October 6th – that’s when the doors swing open. And let’s be real, this place isn’t just for sommeliers and connoisseurs. It’s for anyone who’s up for some great vibes, amazing views, and the kind of food and wine that’ll make your taste buds dance. So whether you’re a die-hard TOOL fan or just someone who wants to dip their toe into the world of wine, Maynard James Keenan’s new spot is where the party’s at. See you there? —Wyatt