New South Wales offers a fantastic variety of lunch experiences that combine good food, stunning scenery, and a touch of local charm. Whether you’re after a relaxed picnic with wine or an in-depth wine tasting with a gourmet meal, this region delivers. We’re especially fond of the Private Picnic Lunch Experience in Orange with Wine because it’s perfect for couples or friends looking for intimacy and scenic beauty. Imagine spreading out a picnic basket amid vineyards, with a guided wine tasting and a complimentary bottle. It offers a relaxed, authentic vibe that makes for a memorable outing. If you’re a wine lover eager to learn more about sparkling wines, the Sparkling Masterclass with Vineyard Tour and 4 Course Lunch is a top choice, bringing together education, tasting, and fine dining in a single package. And for those who want a personal touch, the Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines combines boutique wines with private vineyard tours. Each of these options offers a unique way to enjoy good wine, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food—all within New South Wales’ diverse wine regions.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we’ll explore three outstanding lunch experiences:
– An intimate private picnic at a winery in Orange, including wine tasting and a picnic basket. Learn more about this experience here
– A comprehensive sparkling wine masterclass paired with a vineyard tour and a four-course lunch. Find details here
– An exclusive boutique wine tasting at Rowlee Wines with private vineyard tours. Read more here
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of each tour to help you decide which suits your style and interests.
1. Private Picnic Lunch Experience in Orange with Wine
At number one on our list is the Private Picnic Lunch Experience in Orange with Wine. This tour offers a relaxed, intimate experience perfect for couples or friends wanting a peaceful escape. You’ll get a map of the winery estate, which includes vineyards, orchards, and beautiful rolling hills. The idea is to choose your own spot—think of it as your personal corner of the vineyard—where you can unwind and enjoy the scenery. The picnic basket includes a variety of sweet and savory treats, crafted to complement the local wines.
What truly elevates this experience is the guided wine tasting, during which you’ll sample a selection of wines and pick your favorite bottle to take home. The experience typically lasts about two hours, making it ideal for a half-day escape, but guests often find the relaxed pace encourages lingering. The reviews highlight its charm—”a really cute picnic in a stunning venue” and “a lovely cheese board, dessert, and bottle of wine included”—showing that it’s both high-quality and personal. The private setting means no crowds, just you, your company, and nature’s calm.
Bottom line: This is an affordable, laid-back way to enjoy a personalized wine and food experience in a scenic setting. It’s best suited for those who appreciate privacy combined with good wine and picturesque views.
2. Sparkling Masterclass with Vineyard Tour and 4 Course Lunch
Coming in at number two is the Sparkling Masterclass with Vineyard Tour and 4 Course Lunch. For around $261 per person, this experience is a premium choice for lovers of sparkling wine and gourmet dining. It begins with a personalized, private vineyard tour, where you’re introduced to how award-winning Australian sparkling wines are made—an engaging peek behind the scenes. The owner, David Swift, leads the masterclass, sharing insights into the production process, tasting techniques, and ideal pairings.
The highlight is the sampling of aged wines, which offers a deeper appreciation for the craft. Afterward, you’ll sit down to a carefully curated four-course lunch designed specifically to match the wines tasted. It’s a well-rounded experience that merges education, taste, and scenery in a single outing. Guests have praised the staff for their helpfulness, and the relaxed environment makes it an excellent activity for couples or friends wanting to indulge in a luxurious day.
While pricier, the value is reflected in the comprehensive nature of the experience—an in-depth look at sparkling wines paired with fine food. It’s perfect if you want a mix of learning and indulgence without the hassle of driving afterward.
Bottom line: This tour suits those with a taste for fine wine, good food, and a touch of sophistication. It’s a great choice for special occasions or if you’re eager to deepen your understanding of Australian sparkling wines.
3. Discovery Tasting and Lunch
At number three, the Discovery Tasting and Lunch provides a more relaxed and personal experience at Rowlee Wines, located beneath Mount Canobolas. This boutique winery has been crafting wines for 20 years, and their private tastings highlight their award-winning selections. The tour includes curated tastings of boutique wines, which are visible expressions of the region’s cool climate and family legacy.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of a private vineyard tour and a tasting session that connects you to the land and the family behind the winery. The included lunch is often designed to complement the wines, with emphasis on quality and regional flavors. Reviews mention the craftsmanship and personal touch, making it ideal for those seeking authentic, small-scale wine experiences.
This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a more intimate setting without the crowds. It offers a well-rounded package—wine, land, and family history—in a scenic mountain setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a boutique experience with a personal touch, especially if you’re interested in learning about local winemaking traditions.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re looking for a casual, budget-friendly outing, the Private Picnic Lunch Experience in Orange with Wine is a solid choice. For those wanting a luxurious, educational treat, the Sparkling Masterclass with Vineyard Tour and 4 Course Lunch offers an upscale experience with expert-guided tastings. If intimacy and authenticity appeal more, the Discovery Tasting and Lunch provides a relaxed look into boutique winemaking.
Practical considerations include booking early, especially for the premium tours, and choosing the right season—spring and autumn often have the best scenery. Think about your group’s fitness level and interests: a vineyard tour might demand more walking, while a picnic is more laid-back.
Final Thoughts
New South Wales provides options that cover a broad spectrum—from simple picnics to sophisticated wine classes. For a romantic outing, the private picnic is hard to beat. If you’re a true wine enthusiast, the sparkling masterclass offers an educational edge combined with gourmet dining. For more intimate, boutique experiences, Rowlee Wines provides a taste of authentic family winemaking.
No matter which you pick, these experiences are worth reserving well in advance. They allow you to enjoy the region’s excellent wines and scenic vistas while indulging in some well-deserved good food. Happy tasting!