After moving from DC, it was no question to Zoya Vora-Shah, the owner of The Wine Collective of Scottsdale, that it was the obvious place to not only settle down but also open a business. Her passion for local wines is obvious the moment you enter The Wine Collective, with its impressive wall of wine bottles featuring many of the state's award-winning wineries and their best varietals.
Now full-swing into the holiday season The Wine Collective is busy as ever but we managed to snag a few seconds with Zoya to learn more about her and what's upcoming for both locals and tourists to enjoy in her cozy corner of Old Town Scottsdale.
What inspired you to open The Wine Collective of Scottsdale?
I am passionate about wine and wanted to showcase Arizona wines to locals and tourists alike. it's a burgeoning industry but one that's not yet entirely well-known.
What makes The Wine Collective of Scottsdale different from other tasting rooms in Scottsdale?
We represent other wineries and vineyards that do not have tasting rooms along the Scottsdale Wine Trail. Our flights are curated based on guests' taste preferences and our wine list is always rotating to feature new varietals, winemakers and wineries. We have everything from a sweet & sexy flight for guests who love sweet wines, a "Just Trust Me" flight for the ones who like an adventure (mix of white, rose and reds) and four other additional flights.
You have a lot going on to celebrate the holidays this month...tell us all about it:
Yes, indeed! We are having our monthly complimentary wine tasting on the patio on Friday December 22nd from 5pm-8pm with DJ Katy spinning Jazzy vinyl. We will taste 3 bubbles for the holiday season, all wines will be available by the glass and by the bottle to go as well.
We are also offering two bottles to go for 20% off from December 22nd-24th.
And last but not least, our Bubbles and Chocolate Pairing from December 29th-31st, which is $30/person and includes a flight of four bubbles paired with local chocolates. Tickets for that can be purchased here.
What is your go-to champagne for the holidays and why?
I love Laurent Perrier NV Brut, Love the nutty, toasty notes with hints of grapefruit.
When you're not at The Wine Collective of Scottsdale, where would we find you?
At another small wine bar/shop supporting local businesses.
What are your favorite restaurants to frequent in Scottsdale?
There are so many...Roka Akor, Merkin, F&B, La LoCanda, Marigold Maison to name a few.
Anything coming up in the New Year that we should mark on our calendars?
Yes! Join our Quarterly Wine Club to be regularly experience everything the Arizona wine industry has to offer. Once you join, you receive discounts every time you come in for flights, glasses and bottles, and members also get first access to our Meet the Winemaker events.
For more information on The Wine Collective of Scottsdale and their upcoming offerings, visit www.the-wine-collective.com.