Queenstown: Wine & Food Tour, Scenic Tastings & Paired Lunch

Imagine spending a relaxing afternoon in Queenstown’s famed wine region, visiting three boutique wineries, tasting an impressive variety of local wines, and enjoying a carefully curated lunch — all in about five and a half hours. This all-inclusive tour, priced at $132 per person, is perfect for those who want a taste of Central Otago’s exciting wine scene without the fuss of planning each stop themselves.

What we love about this experience is how it combines expert-led tastings with a delicious food pairing, all set against some of Queenstown’s most beautiful vineyard scenery. The tour’s guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach, making every moment feel both educational and fun. The chance to visit boutique wineries offers a more intimate experience than large commercial operations, giving you a real sense of the local wine craft.

One thing to consider is that this tour runs for about 5.5 hours in the afternoon, which might be a long day for travelers with tight schedules or those preferring a more leisurely pace. Also, since children under 18 aren’t allowed, it’s best suited for adult wine enthusiasts or couples seeking a relaxed, adult-oriented outing.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone curious about Central Otago’s renowned Pinot Noir — and who also appreciates a good story behind each glass. If you enjoy learning about regional wine styles and want a relaxed, friendly environment to explore Queenstown’s wine scene, this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

All-inclusive experience covering three boutique wineries with tastings and a paired lunch.
Expert guides provide engaging commentary and local insights.
Boutique wineries offer a more personal and authentic tasting environment.
The lunch includes a main course of your choice, paired with a matching estate wine.
The tour is 5.5 hours long, usually in the afternoon, ideal for an in-depth half-day outing.
Suitable for adults only, making it a relaxed, adult-focused experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Queenstown Wine & Food Tour

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The Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-organized journey through Queenstown’s famous wine region, Gibbston Valley, with visits to three boutique wineries. Typically, you’ll start outside the Red Rock Bar Cafe in downtown Queenstown, where a friendly guide will greet you before boarding a comfortable, usually small, van or bus. The friendly group sizes, often around 8-10 people, help keep the experience intimate and engaging.

First stop: Often a larger, well-known winery, which sets the tone with its impressive cellar and broad selection of wines. Reviewers comment on the generous tastings and the personalized explanations given by the guides, making it easy to understand what makes Queenstown wines so special.

Next stops tend to be charming boutique wineries, each with its own character. Some reviews mention tasting wine in a cave or exploring unique cellar rooms carved out of the mountain — a highlight for many. These visits allow you to sample a variety of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other local varieties, gaining insight into how climate and soil influence flavor.

The Wine Tastings: What You’ll Experience

Throughout the day, the guide provides hosted tastings and presentations, sharing stories about each winery’s history and winemaking process. You’ll taste a broad spectrum of wines, often over 15+ cups of wine per person, with many guests noting the generous portions.

Several reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and entertaining guides — like Tee or Angus — who blend facts and humor, making the tastings memorable. As one guest puts it, “T was a great and fun guide,” bringing personality and expertise to each stop.

The Lunch: A Highlight

A major part of this tour’s appeal is the paired lunch at Kinross Winery, where you get to choose a main dish from an à la carte menu made from fresh, local ingredients. The lunch is often described as delicious, with attention to detail in pairing the perfect wine with your meal. Many reviewers mention the excellent quality of the food and the perfect pairing with estate wines.

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The Wineries: Personal and Authentic

Visiting boutique wineries makes this experience feel more personal and authentic. You’re likely to meet passionate winemakers or staff who are eager to share their craft. The combination of small, charming wineries and the larger, well-established ones offers a nice balance between scale and intimacy.

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The Environment and Scenery

Beyond the wine, the setting is breathtaking. You’ll be surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Central Otago, known for its rolling hills, mountain vistas, and lush vineyards. Many reviews mention how the beautiful scenery enhances the tasting experience, making it not just about the wine but also about soaking in the landscape.

The Group and Tour Style

Designed to be relaxed and friendly, this tour attracts a diverse mix of travelers. Guests often comment on the good camaraderie and the fun atmosphere created by guides like Tee or Angus. The small group size fosters a more personal experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and socialize.

The Cost and Value

At $132, this tour offers excellent value, considering the all-inclusive nature — tastings, lunch, transport, and expert guiding. Given the generous wine portions and the quality of the lunch, many guests feel they receive great value. The reviews frequently mention that the experience exceeds expectations for the price paid, especially when compared with the private or more expensive wine tours elsewhere.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves wine and good food and enjoys learning about regional varieties in a laid-back environment, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small, boutique wineries and want a personal touch. Suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy convivial experiences, it’s a way to deepen your understanding of Queenstown’s wine culture without the hassle of organizing each visit.

The Sum Up

This Queenstown wine and food tour impresses with its balance of fun, education, and deliciousness. The expert guides elevate the experience, making it feel both enriching and relaxed. The scenic vineyard setting and generous tastings turn a half-day into a memorable adventure. The paired lunch adds a delightful culinary dimension, making it especially appealing for foodies.

While the duration is a bit long for some, the small group size and personalized guidance create a friendly, engaging atmosphere. The mix of well-known and boutique wineries ensures variety, and many travelers leave feeling they’ve gained a real appreciation for Central Otago wines.

This tour is ideal for adults who love wine, enjoy good company, and want an authentic taste of Queenstown’s wine scene. It offers excellent value for money, especially when you consider the quality of tastings, the beautiful environment, and the memorable guide-led experience.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 5.5 hours and is usually scheduled in the afternoon.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet outside Red Rock Bar Cafe in downtown Queenstown.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, complimentary pick-up and drop-off can be arranged from selected Queenstown accommodations, or you can meet at the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers visits to three boutique wineries, hosted wine tastings, a paired lunch with a main dish and matching wine, and an expert guide.

Are there vegetarian or other dietary options?
Yes, you are asked to advise of any dietary requirements when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You can expect to taste a variety of local wines, likely including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and others typical of Central Otago.

Who is the tour guided by?
A local wine specialist with a passion for sharing the region’s winemaking stories and secrets.

Is this experience worth the money?
Based on reviews, the generous tastings, quality lunch, and friendly guides make it a very good value for those looking to enjoy Queenstown’s wine region without hassle.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about New Zealand’s famous Pinot Noir, this tour offers a genuine, engaging taste of Queenstown’s unique wine culture. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a mix of scenic beauty, authentic wine experiences, and a touch of local hospitality—delivered in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.