Queenstown: Wine Tasting Tour

Imagine sipping world-class Pinot Noir in a land famed for its stunning scenery, friendly vintners, and off-the-beaten-path cellars. For those who love wine and want an authentic taste of New Zealand’s Central Otago region, this Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, stories, and superb wines—all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

Priced at $134 per person and lasting about 6 hours, this tour aims to give you a taste of the region’s finest. You’ll visit four unique cellar doors, including the famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave, and sample over 18 wines, including the region’s celebrated Pinot Noir. The experience is designed to be relaxed yet informative, making it perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy a scenic day with excellent company.

What we especially appreciate is how personal the experience feels thanks to a small group of no more than 14 people, and how the luxury vehicle ensures a comfortable ride with amenities like WiFi and Spotify—ideal for setting the mood or learning more about the wines you’re tasting.

One possible consideration? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those under 18, which makes sense given the wine tastings. Plus, the minimum of three participants to run the tour means it might be canceled or rescheduled if that’s not met, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy good wine, scenic drives, and engaging guides. If you’re after a personalized, relaxed experience with the chance to learn from knowledgeable hosts, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
Visit four diverse wineries, including the impressive underground wine cave.
Taste over 18 wines, primarily renowned Pinot Noir from the Otago region.
Comfortable transportation in a premium Mercedes van with WiFi and Spotify.
Includes a break for lunch at Kinross, with options to purchase food.
Educational experience with onboard videos and tasting insights from guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When you book this Queenstown wine tour, you’re signing up for more than just tasting wine. You’re stepping into a beautifully curated day that balances scenic drives, engaging stories, and a chance to sample some of New Zealand’s best wines.

Your guide, who has garnered glowing reviews for being knowledgeable and personable, will pick you up from your Queenstown accommodation (or a central meeting point if you’re not staying directly in town). The ride in a luxury Mercedes van feels quite special—leather seats, ample space, and the conveniences of WiFi and Spotify make the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Expect a bit of onboard commentary about the Otago region, wine making, and the vineyards you’ll visit, helping you get the most from your day.

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First Stop: Gibbston Valley Underground Wine Cave

The tour kicks off with a visit to Gibbston Valley, perhaps New Zealand’s most iconic wine destination. Here, you’ll explore the largest underground wine cave in the country—a remarkable feat of wine storage and aging. The cavernous space adds a touch of drama to your tasting, and the tour of the vines beforehand offers insight into the region’s terroir.

This location is a highlight, and the tasting in the cave gives you a memorable atmosphere—cool, dark, and full of history. You’ll sample some world-famous wines, with the chance to learn about their production from knowledgeable staff. Multiple reviews praise the educational aspect and the “incredible” wines at Gibbston.

Second Stop: Kinross Cellar Door

Next, the group heads to Kinross, a winery that stands out for showcasing wines from five different winemakers. This site provides an excellent opportunity to understand the diversity of styles in the Otago region. The hosts here are lively and entertaining, making the tasting both fun and educational.

Lunch is hosted at Kinross, giving you time to relax and enjoy a delicious meal—though it’s an optional purchase separate from the tour fee. This flexibility means you can indulge in a variety of dishes, pairing them with your preferred wines.

Third Stop: Mt Rosa Wines

After lunch, the tour moves to Mt Rosa Wines, a small, owner-operated cellar door that produces single-label wines. Their offerings are unique, often hard to find outside the region, and are praised for their quality and distinctiveness. This stop allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship of boutique wineries, and you might find yourself impressed by the rarity and character of these wines.

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Fourth Stop: The Church Tasting Room

The final stop takes place at The Church Tasting Room, a charming location set in a converted small church. Surrounded by large, sweeping grounds, this venue offers a peaceful setting to wrap up your tasting experience. It’s home to Mt Edward Wines, known for their refined approach and excellent quality.

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End of Tour

By about 4 pm, your guide will drop you back near your Queenstown accommodation or into town for your evening plans. The experience is designed to be relaxed, with plenty of time to chat, learn, and savor your wines without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is the careful selection of wineries—each offers something different, from underground caves to boutique labels—and the small group size ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd.

The pricing of $134 per person is quite reasonable given the inclusions: over 18 tastings, a guided experience, luxury transportation, and the chance to explore some of New Zealand’s top vineyards. The addition of WiFi and Spotify onboard may seem small, but it enhances the overall comfort and engagement—especially if you want to learn more or just relax with your favorite tunes.

The reviews highlight guides who are not only knowledgeable but also personable, making the day more enjoyable. From “Terrific insights” to “a perfect balance,” travelers consistently praise the guides’ ability to keep things flowing smoothly while also fostering camaraderie.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love wine and want to gain a deeper appreciation of Otago’s best offerings in a scenic setting, this tour is ideal. It’s particularly suitable for those who prefer a leisurely pace, enjoy small-group interactions, and value expert insights. It’s not suited for children or pregnant women, but for anybody over 18 looking for a fun, educational, and delicious day in Queenstown, this is a winner.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up and drop you off at your Queenstown accommodation or a central meeting point in a luxury Mercedes van.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 10 am and returning around 4 pm, giving you ample time at each stop.

Can I buy lunch on the tour?
Lunch is available at Kinross and is paid separately. The tour includes time for you to enjoy their menu, but it’s not included in the base price.

What wines will I taste?
You can expect to taste over 18 wines, including the highly praised Pinot Noir from Central Otago, and wines from boutique producers like Mt Rosa.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour involves tastings, non-drinkers could still enjoy the scenery, guide insights, and the atmosphere. However, it’s primarily designed for wine enthusiasts.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport for age verification, cash for any extra purchases or lunch, and comfortable clothes suitable for a day out.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Be sure to confirm your participation early.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour offers a tailored, scenic, and educational experience that’s hard to beat. The combination of spectacular vineyard visits, delicious wines, and a friendly guide creates a memorable day that appeals to both seasoned wine lovers and casual enthusiasts alike. The small group format ensures you get personal attention, and the luxury vehicle makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

If you’re looking for a way to combine your love of wine with the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially perfect if you value quality over quantity, enjoy engaging stories, and want a relaxed yet informative day out.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge your curiosity, this tour promises a friendly, fun, and tasty adventure in Central Otago’s famous vineyards.