Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour | Adults Only

Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour | Adults Only offers a relaxed, flavorful glimpse into Central Otago’s vibrant alcohol scene, set against some of Queenstown’s most stunning landscapes. For $164.39 per person, you’ll spend about three and a half hours hopping between three carefully curated stops: Canyon Brewing, Rifters Gin, and Amisfield Winery. Led by a knowledgeable local guide and transported in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, this tour is limited to just 10 guests—ensuring a personal, engaging experience.

What we love most about this tour is its perfect balance of scenery and sipping. First, the stop at Canyon Brewing provides panoramic views of the Shotover River, making your beer or wine tasting feel even more special. Then, visiting Rifters Gin in historic Arrowtown offers a glimpse into small-batch, grain-to-glass craftsmanship, with a cozy setting in Dudleys Cottage. Finally, winding up at Amisfield’s impressive cellar door, you’ll taste some of the finest Central Otago wines while soaking in breathtaking landscape views.

A potential consideration? The schedule can feel a little rushed at the winery, especially if you’re eager to linger over your wines or enjoy some additional snacks. Also, since this experience is adults-only (18+), it’s not suitable for travelers with young children or those not interested in sampling alcohol.

This tour suits curious sippers who appreciate authentic local flavors, scenic drives, and the camaraderie of a small group. If you’re after a well-rounded, relaxed afternoon with friendly guides and great company, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Diverse tastings include craft beers, gins, and Central Otago wines, appealing to varied preferences.
• Stunning scenery at each stop enhances the tasting experience, especially with views of the Shotover River and Otago landscapes.
• Expert guides, like Emma, are praised for their knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging.
• Flexible options such as wine flights or beer paddles cater to different palates.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter provides a smooth and safe ride.

A Detailed Look at the Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour

Starting Point and Transport

Starting at the Marmolada Cafe on Camp Street, you’ll be picked up in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter. The group size is intentionally small—no more than 10 travelers—so you won’t feel lost in a crowd. The ride itself is part of the experience; air conditioning keeps things comfortable, and the relaxed pace allows you to settle in and get to know your fellow tasters.

The tour kicks off at 3:00 pm, giving you a late-afternoon window that’s perfect for a leisurely exploration without feeling rushed. Many reviews mention how the timing allows for other activities earlier in the day, making it flexible for those with tight schedules.

Stop 1: Canyon Brewing

Your first stop is Canyon Brewing, a must-visit for craft beer lovers. The brewery’s scenic location near the Shotover River offers inspiring views of Skippers Canyon—an ideal backdrop for tasting some of Queenstown’s most popular brews. You’ll be offered a tasting paddle of local beers, and if you prefer wine, that option is available too.

What makes this stop stand out is the combination of stunning scenery and quality craft beers. The reviews commend the beautiful setting and the tasty brews, with some travelers noting how the view amplifies their enjoyment. The 45-minute visit gives enough time to sample and chat without feeling hurried.

Stop 2: Rifters Gin in Arrowtown

Next, you’ll head to Rifters Gin in historic Arrowtown, a town known for its gold rush past and charming streets. Set in Dudleys Cottage, a historic building, Rifters crafts small-batch gins using flavorful botanicals and artesian water. Here, you’ll get a hosted gin tasting and learn about their grain-to-glass process.

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable staff, especially Phillip, who was described as “by far the best.” Guests love how approachable the tasting room is and appreciate the chance to explore premium, handcrafted gins. The setting in a historic cottage adds a layer of authenticity and charm that elevates the experience.

Stop 3: Amisfield Winery

Your final stop is the renowned Amisfield Winery, a jewel of Central Otago’s wine scene. The impressive cellar door and the dramatic landscape views make this a memorable place to taste wines. You’ll enjoy an approximate 45-minute tasting of their elegant wines, with the option to purchase bottles to take home.

Guests often mention how special the setting feels, with some noting that the views and the wine quality make it worth every penny. The tour includes a selection of wines that cater to a variety of palates, with some reviews praising the quality of the wines and the knowledge of the staff. While some found the tasting a little rushed, most appreciated the comprehensive experience.

Authentic Experiences and Value

This tour balances local flavor, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. The price reflects good value given the three curated stops, high-quality tastings, and comfortable transportation. Compared to visiting each of these spots independently, the tour offers convenience and curated insights you might miss on your own.

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience. Emma, in particular, is mentioned as fabulous, sharing insights about Queenstown and the local drinks with enthusiasm.

The stops themselves are thoughtfully selected: Canyon Brewing for scenic beer tasting, Rifters Gin for an intimate look at craft distilling, and Amisfield for top-tier wines with spectacular views. Each has its unique appeal, adding to the overall diversity of the afternoon.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise—their stories, recommendations, and approachable manner make the experience more engaging. Guests also appreciate the variety: “We toured Canyon Brewing with beautiful views and tasty beers,” and “Phillip at Rifters was by far the best.”

Some noted that the last venue could get a little rushed, which is worth considering if you want ample time to savor your wines or enjoy some snacks. Still, most guests find the pacing just right, especially given the limited duration.

Practical Details

The tour begins at 3:00 pm and lasts roughly three and a half hours, making it an ideal late-afternoon activity. The small group size ensures a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides and staff at each venue. The ability to choose between beer paddles or wine flights adds flexibility, catering to different tastes.

The activity is adults-only (18+), so it’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a sophisticated afternoon. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you appreciate authentic, locally-produced drinks and love beautiful scenery, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere and want to learn about Queenstown’s beverage scene from expert guides. It’s a good fit for wine lovers, craft beer enthusiasts, and gin aficionados alike.

Travelers seeking a convenient, all-in-one experience with scenic stops and high-quality tastings will find this tour offers solid value. However, if you prefer longer, more leisurely tastings or are traveling with children, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour is designed as an adult experience and involves tastings of beer, gin, and wine, non-drinkers can often opt for alternatives like soft drinks or water, but it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific accommodations.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 3:00 pm and returning to the meeting point. Each stop is approximately 45 minutes.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers all tastings—beer, gin, and wine—as well as the live commentary from your guide and transportation in a luxury vehicle.

Can I purchase additional drinks or food?
Yes, at each venue, you can buy extra drinks if you wish. The winery, in particular, offers the option to purchase bottles. However, complimentary food or tapas are not included, though some reviews suggest bringing snacks.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

Is the tour physically accessible?
While specific accessibility details are not provided, the stops involve minimal walking and are mostly seated tastings. It’s advisable to confirm with the operator if you have specific needs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

Are children allowed?
No, this is an adults-only tour (18+), perfect for celebrating or enjoying a grown-up afternoon.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a scenic drive and outdoor views is recommended. Layering is advisable since indoor venues can vary in temperature.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, local craftsmanship, and expert guidance—all within a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with tasting some of Queenstown’s finest drinks in an informal atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an engaging afternoon with new flavors, this tour delivers genuine value.

The combination of stunning vistas, knowledgeable guides, and high-quality tastings makes it a standout experience in Queenstown. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic, locally-made drinks and enjoy connecting with a small group of fellow travelers. If you’re after a memorable, flavor-filled highlight of your Queenstown trip, this tour hits the mark.

Enjoy your time in Queenstown, and may your glass be ever full of good company and great drinks. Cheers!