Orange, New South Wales, is quickly earning a reputation as a top food and wine destination. Its cool climate vineyards produce some of Australia’s most acclaimed wines, and the region’s restaurants serve up fresh, local produce. What makes Orange special isn’t just the wine, but the personal stories, stunning vineyard views, and the chance to taste authentic regional flavors. Among the many options, we particularly appreciate tours that combine expert guidance with genuine tasting experiences. For instance, the Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour offers a perfect peek into the winemaking process right at a certified carbon-neutral estate. It’s a fantastic way to learn how award-winning wines are crafted, then sample some yourself.
If you’re deciding which tour suits your style best, it helps to know the variety on offer. Whether you prefer an intimate tasting, a guided vineyard walk, or a gourmet lunch complemented by local wines, Orange has something to match your interests.
1. Orange NSW: Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour
At number 1, this Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour is a standout for its in-depth look into the winemaking process. For just $13 per person, you get 1.5 hours of hands-on exploration at a winery that’s proudly certified as carbon neutral. The tour guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge on how Ross Hill produces its award-winning wines, from grape to glass. You’ll witness the winery’s sustainable practices firsthand—a rare aspect that adds meaning to the tasting.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of a selection of wines crafted on-site, which allows you to appreciate their complexity and regional character. The focus on sustainability and passion makes this experience stand out, especially for those interested in environmentally conscious wine production. The winery’s reputation for quality and the intimate setting make this ideal for wine novices and aficionados alike.
Bottom line: This tour offers an affordable, educational, and authentic look at winemaking with the bonus of tasting the results—perfect for those curious about wine’s journey from vineyard to table.
2. Orange: Savour with Swinging Bridge РWine & Canap̩ Tasting
At number 2, the Savour with Swinging Bridge РWine & Canap̩ Tasting delivers a lively food and wine pairing experience. For $33 per person, the 1-hour session includes seven carefully curated cool climate wines, each paired with locally sourced canap̩s prepared onsite. The tasting is guided by a qualified sommelier who explains the nuances of each wine and pairing.
What makes this tour appealing is the combination of impressive views—over the Swinging Bridge Hill Park Vineyard and Mt Canobolas—and the chance to taste exclusive single vineyard releases. The canapés, made fresh by Swinging Bridge’s chef, enhance the tasting experience and showcase the region’s best produce. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a quick but high-quality experience that combines food, wine, and scenery in one.
Bottom line: A great option for wine lovers interested in learning about pairings and tasting limited-edition wines without a large time commitment.
3. Orange: Explore with Swinging Bridge – Guided Tour & Tasting
Number 3 on our list, the Explore with Swinging Bridge – Guided Tour & Tasting provides a comprehensive look at one of Orange’s top wineries. For $33, you get a one-hour guided tour of the Hill Park Vineyard, followed by a curated single vineyard tasting flight. The tour allows you to see the vineyard’s stunning landscape and learn about its specific growing conditions, which influence the wine’s character.
This experience appeals to those who want a deeper understanding of vineyard management and terroir, combined with tasting wines that reflect the unique site. Guests are often impressed with the clarity of the stories behind the wines, and the views of Mt Canobolas create a memorable backdrop. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a moderately paced tour that balances education and tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting to explore vineyard specifics while sampling some of the region’s best wines, making it a well-rounded experience.
$33 per person
4. Orange: Indulge with Swinging Bridge – 5-Course Lunch & Tour
Finally, the Indulge with Swinging Bridge – 5-Course Lunch & Tour is the most indulgent experience on our list. For $99 per person, you’ll join a 3-hour tour that begins with a walk through the vineyards and finishes with a five-course degustation lunch matched with Swinging Bridge wines. The guided vineyard tour offers insights into how the estate cultivates grapes for premium wines, while the lunch provides a chance to enjoy regional flavors paired expertly with local wines.
This experience is best suited for food and wine lovers who want a full, relaxed experience that combines education, taste, and scenery. The five courses feature locally sourced ingredients, making this a true regional culinary celebration. Though the price is higher, it includes both a comprehensive vineyard tour and a gourmet meal—excellent value for those seeking a memorable, immersive day.
Bottom line: A premium choice for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a comprehensive, luxury wine and food experience.
$99 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Orange
When selecting your ideal wine or food tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to Orange’s winemaking, the Savour with Swinging Bridge offers a quick, high-quality tasting. For a deeper understanding, Explore with Swinging Bridge provides a guided vineyard experience. If sustainability and environmental impact matter to you, the Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour is a standout. For those wanting a full day of indulgence, the Indulge with Swinging Bridge combines wine, scenery, and gourmet food.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons in spring and autumn, when the region’s weather and grape harvests are at their best. Think about whether you want a quick tasting or a more immersive experience, and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Orange offers a diverse range of wine and food tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you’re after a quick, educational taste, an in-depth vineyard walk, or a luxurious multi-course lunch, there’s something here for you. The Ross Hill Winery Behind-the-Scenes Tour is ideal for eco-conscious wine lovers, while the Indulge with Swinging Bridge is perfect for celebrating a special occasion. For travelers eager to learn about vineyard management and taste the region’s best wines, the guided Explore with Swinging Bridge rounds out the list.
No matter what you choose, early booking is wise, and a focus on your specific interests—be it sustainability, gastronomy, or guided education—will ensure a memorable experience. Orange’s wine scene is growing, and these tours are a fantastic way to dive into it at your own pace.