Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenery, Tastings & Delicious Lunch!

Queenstown Wine & Food Tour: Scenic Vines, Tasty Tastings & a Hearty Lunch

Imagine a sunny afternoon in Queenstown, surrounded by rolling hills, rugged gorges, and vineyards bursting with grapes. For just over five hours, this tour takes you through some of Central Otago’s top boutique wineries, with insider tastings, an unforgettable underground cellar visit, and a generous local-style lunch. Priced at $137 per person, it’s a surprisingly good deal given the quality of wines, the scenic drive, and the personal attention you get in a small-group setting.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly it runs from start to finish. First, the hotel pickup is seamless, saving you the hassle of finding your way through Queenstown. And second, the variety of wineries—from the impressive Gibbston Valley with its sprawling underground cellar to the intimate, hosted tastings at Mt Rosa and Kinross—showcases the diversity of Central Otago’s wine scene. You’re also in safe hands, with a driver and guide who clearly know their stuff, adding a layer of relaxed professionalism that keeps everything flowing.

One thing to keep in mind is that, at its core, this is a tasting tour designed for those who enjoy wine, good food, and scenic views. It’s not a high-energy party but more of a leisurely exploration. If you’re someone who prefers a more extensive or all-day adventure, you might find the 5.5-hour format somewhat limited. But for a compact, quality experience, it hits the mark perfectly.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, knowledgeable guides, and scenic drives. It’s ideal if you’re in Queenstown for a few days and want a relaxed, well-rounded introduction to Central Otago’s wine country without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Only up to 14 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere
• Diverse Wineries: Visit Gibbston Valley’s underground cellar, Mt Rosa, and Kinross, each offering unique tasting experiences
• Unbeatable Scenery: Traverse the Kawarau Gorge with breathtaking views along the way
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Claire, T, and Andy are praised for their knowledge, charisma, and friendliness
• Great Value: Combine tastings, a delicious a la carte lunch, and transportation all for just $137
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free

An In-Depth Look at the Queenstown Wine & Food Tour

Starting Off in Style: Hotel Pickup & Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off around noon with hotel pickups from selected Queenstown accommodations. This is a huge plus—no hunting for parking or figuring out directions in a town that’s often busy with other travelers. The air-conditioned van is comfortable, providing a perfect setting for the scenic 45-minute drive through the Kawarau Gorge. We loved the way the guide shared stories about the region’s history and geology, setting the scene for a day of discovery.

The Kawarau Gorge itself is a highlight—rugged cliffs, rushing waters, and vibrant green landscapes that make the journey as memorable as the destinations. This drive sets the tone for the day: relaxed, scenic, and full of anticipation for what’s ahead.

Gibbston Valley Winery: The Underground Wine Cave

The first stop is Gibbston Valley, famous for housing New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave. The visit here is a real treat, with a 45-minute private tour exploring this subterranean marvel. The cave’s cool, stable environment is ideal for aging wine, and walking through it gives a tangible sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

This winery is a fan favorite, with visitors raving about its “biggest underground wine cellar” and the atmosphere that combines history and modern winemaking. The tasting here involves sampling some of the premium wines produced on-site, which often include Pinot Noir, a regional specialty. Several reviews highlight how the wines at Gibbston Valley are “delicious,” and the guided tasting helps you understand what makes each varietal unique to the region.

Mt Rosa Wines: Personalized Tasting in a Cozy Setting

Next, you head to Mt Rosa Wines for a hosted tasting experience. This stop is more intimate, allowing you to ask questions and receive personalized attention. Our guide explained the regional grape varieties and the influence of local soils, climate, and winemaking techniques.

Guests have described this as “great fun” with “lots of fun and very knowledgeable” hosts. The wines here are often praised for their quality and clarity, making it easier to pick favorites. The relaxed atmosphere at Mt Rosa lets you really savor each sip and get a sense of the region’s character.

Kinross: A Full-Way Wine & Food Paired Lunch

The final destination is Kinross, where a lunch with wine pairing awaits. You get to choose a main from the à la carte menu, and it’s paired with a estate wine, thanks to the guides’ expertise. The reviews frequently mention the “delicious lamb shank” and the “outstanding” food, which is hearty and fresh, made with local ingredients.

The lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s part of the experience. The wine pairings are thoughtfully selected, elevating the flavors of each dish and giving you a real taste of central Otago’s culinary flair. After lunch, you’ll have some time to enjoy the scenery and the company of fellow travelers.

The End of the Tour: Return & Reflections

After the final tasting and lunch, the van takes you back to Queenstown. The relaxed pace means you arrive feeling satisfied—full of good wine, new knowledge, and beautiful memories. Many guests comment on how smoothly the day is run and how much they appreciated the personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere brought by guides like Claire, T, and Andy.

What’s the Value?

For $137, this tour offers a lot: three boutique winery visits, insider tastings, a gourmet lunch, and scenic transportation—all in a friendly, small-group setting. The tour’s price reflects quality rather than quantity; it’s designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s wine scene without rushing or feeling crowded. Several reviews note the excellent value for money, especially considering the high-quality wines and delicious food included.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy wine, good company, and scenic drives. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, educational outing with a personal touch. The small-group format ensures you’ll get attention from guides, who are known for their warmth and knowledge. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Central Otago, you’ll find this tour hits the mark.

Possible Drawbacks

The main limitation is the duration—about five and a half hours—meaning it’s not suited for those wanting a full-day winery experience or a more vigorous adventure. Also, since it involves sampling wines, it’s best suited for guests 18 and older who are comfortable with tasting multiple wines over the course of the afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, tastings, and lunch.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Queenstown, making it very convenient.

What is included in the lunch?
You choose a main from the à la carte menu, and it’s paired with estate wines and fresh local produce, providing a hearty, delicious meal.

How many wineries are visited?
Three boutique wineries—Gibbston Valley, Mt Rosa, and Kinross—each offering distinct tasting experiences.

Is there a wine cellar visit?
Yes, at Gibbston Valley, the highlight is New Zealand’s biggest underground wine cellar, which is open for a guided tour.

Can I participate if I’m new to wine?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how approachable and informative the tastings are, making it suitable for all levels of wine knowledge.

In Closing

This Queenstown Wine & Food Tour provides a perfect blend of scenic beauty, local flavors, and expert guidance. You’ll enjoy beautifully curated tastings, a delicious lunch, and the chance to learn about Central Otago’s wine region from friendly, knowledgeable hosts. The small-group format ensures a relaxed, personal experience, making it ideal if you value quality over quantity.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious to learn more, this tour offers genuine value and authentic taste of Queenstown’s regional specialties. It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon—savoring good wine, stunning scenery, and great company in the company of passionate guides.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized wine adventure in Queenstown that balances scenery, tastings, and a tasty lunch, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and authentic local flavors. Perfect for a memorable half-day escape into Central Otago’s winemaking heart.