Cambridge Hobart Wine & Spirits Tour- Optional Lunch of Choice

Experience the Best of Tasmania’s Spirits and Wines on a Customizable Hobart Tour
This six-and-a-half-hour journey takes you through some of the most innovative and passionate small-batch distilleries in the Hobart area, with the flexibility to select three from four different stops. The tour, priced at around $264 per person, offers a personalized tasting experience led by knowledgeable guides, often with the owners themselves sharing their craft. Starting from Hobart’s waterfront at One Franklin Wharf, you’ll be driven in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off included—no need to worry about transport or drinking and driving.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, the ability to customize your tastings by choosing three distilleries or wineries, which means you get a tailored experience that aligns with your interests—whether it’s gin, whisky, rum, or wine. Secondly, the small group format, capped at just seven travelers, ensures a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere where you can really engage with the artisans behind each product. The only thing to keep in mind is that, depending on the day’s events or availability, your preferred distilleries might not always be the first choice, so booking well in advance is recommended.

This experience is ideal for those who love discovering local craftsmanship, enjoy tasting spirits directly from passionate producers, and want a more personal connection with the makers. If you’re curious about Tasmania’s renowned distilling scene or seeking a fun, informative day with good food and excellent drinks, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Hobart visit.

Key Points

• Flexible Tasting Options: Choose three out of four distilleries or wineries for a personalized experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With just seven travelers, expect a relaxed, engaging environment.
• Authentic Interactions: Meet passionate owners and artisans, often with dedicated staff leading the tastings.
• Diverse Offerings: From gin and whisky to rum and wine, the tour showcases Tasmania’s diverse craft spirits.
• Gourmet Lunch Choices: Optional sit-down meals at top local venues allow for a leisurely break.
• Price Reflects Value: With multiple tastings included, the cost offers good value for a curated, intimate experience.

In-Depth Review of the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown – What You Can Expect

The Cambridge Hobart Wine & Spirits Tour is designed with flexibility and quality in mind. Your day begins with a pickup from Hobart at around 9:30 am, a good time to get an early start on what promises to be a rewarding day. The journey itself is comfortable, with a modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensuring you stay cool and relaxed as you travel between destinations.

Stop 1: Spring Bay Distillery in Cambridge (1 hour)
This first stop sets the tone with a focus on Tasmania’s renowned single malt whisky, gin, and vodka. Winemaker and distiller Mark and his team are dedicated to traditional craftsmanship, often using local ingredients from the pristine Tassie environment. Visitors love the award-winning spirits and the chance to taste a broad range of products crafted with care. We appreciated that Spring Bay combines tradition with innovation, making it a must-visit for whisky lovers.
Reviewers highlight the quality of the tastings and the knowledgeable hosts, making this a memorable introduction to Tasmania’s spirit scene.

Stop 2: Drifters End Distilling Company (1 hour)
Founded by sisters Sam and Chris Jones, this boutique distillery brings a personal touch to each spirit. You’ll sample their gins, along with a whisky, and learn about their small-batch, handcrafted approach. Guests enjoy the friendly, chatty atmosphere and the chance to hear stories directly from the owners. We loved the intimate setting that encouraged questions and made each tasting feel special.
Reviewers call it a “fun & informative” visit, with the added bonus of getting to understand what makes Tasmanian spirits unique.

Stop 3: Blackmans Bay Distillery (now at Cambridge) (1 hour)
Although slightly outside Hobart, this husband-and-wife team has built a reputation for their award-winning gins and rum. Their handcrafted approach ensures no two batches are alike, and visitors often say they’re impressed by the quality and variety of spirits on offer. The fact that the distillery is family-run adds an extra layer of authenticity, and free tastings mean you can sample at your leisure.
Guests have mentioned that this stop offers exceptional spirits and a friendly vibe that makes it easy to linger.

Stop 4: Charles Reuben Estate (1.5 hours)
This estate offers a broader perspective—here, you’ll taste wines, brandies, and more, with a focus on regional varieties like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet. Their award-winning wines and spirits reflect Tasmania’s reputation for high-quality, cool-climate produce. The longer stop allows for a more relaxed tasting, with plenty of time to chat with staff and enjoy the scenic vineyard views.
Many travelers praise the delicious wines and the welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “A fabulous day hosted by Ingrid,” emphasizing the guide’s engaging style and the overall experience.

The Optional Lunch – A Culinary Break

Two options are available for lunch, which you’ll need to book in advance through the tour provider. The Richmond Arms Hotel offers hearty meals at a range of prices ($20-$50), perfect for those wanting a casual, local pub experience. Alternatively, the Frogmore Creek Cellar Door & Restaurant provides a more upscale setting with share plates and vineyard views, priced around $75. Both options allow you to relax, refuel, and discuss the morning’s tastings.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Hobart, a goodie bag, and tastings at three of your chosen distilleries or wineries. It’s a well-rounded value considering the personalized experience and the opportunity to sample exclusive, small-batch spirits. Be prepared to purchase lunch separately, which is a fair expectation given the variety of dining options.

How the Experience Feels

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are passionate and knowledgeable. Ingrid, the guide mentioned by many, is praised for her friendly and informative manner. The small group size helps foster a relaxed, friendly environment, where you can easily ask questions and take your time. The tastings are often described as generous, and the overall vibe is one of genuine passion for Tasmania’s craft spirits and wines.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While $264 may seem steep at first glance, remember that it includes multiple tastings, a personalized itinerary, and transportation—not to mention the opportunity to meet the actual artisans behind the spirits. The optional lunch, which is not included in the base price, allows you to tailor the experience to your appetite and taste. Compared to visiting these distilleries separately, the tour offers both convenience and insight you’d find hard to replicate on your own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to spirits connoisseurs, wine enthusiasts, and travelers eager for authentic local stories. If you’re someone who enjoys tasting small-batch, handcrafted spirits and values personal interactions with producers, you’ll find this a rewarding day. It’s also perfect for those who prefer guided experiences but want the flexibility to select the stops that interest them most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which distilleries I visit?
Yes, you select three out of four distilleries or wineries, ensuring a tailored experience.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While tastings are included, non-drinkers can still enjoy the sights, conversations, and optional lunch. You might want to inform the guide if you prefer to abstain from alcohol.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:30 am and returning to Hobart around 4 pm.

Are meals included in the price?
No, lunch is an optional extra, and you need to book and pay separately.

What is the group size?
The maximum is seven travelers, making for a cozy, engaging atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, because the tour is popular, often booked many days ahead, and your preferred distilleries may sell out quickly.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in Hobart are included, making the experience stress-free and convenient.

To sum it up, this Hobart distillery tour offers a well-balanced mix of personalized tastings, authentic local craftsmanship, and scenic surroundings. With knowledgeable guides, small group intimacy, and the flexibility to choose your stops, it provides a memorable taste of Tasmania’s spirit and wine world. It’s particularly well-suited for curious connoisseurs and travelers who appreciate genuine interactions and high-quality, small-batch products. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or just want an effortless way to explore Tasmania’s craft scene, this tour promises a flavor-rich day you won’t forget.