Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour with Gourmet Lunch

Imagine combining scenic drives, top-tier wine tastings, and a gourmet lunch, all led by a chef who knows the region inside out. That’s exactly what the Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour offers. For $395 per person, you spend about six hours exploring the Wairarapa’s renowned vineyards just 75 minutes from Wellington. Your guide, a French-trained chef, not only shares insights into the area’s winemaking but also guides you through a curated experience that emphasizes quality, authenticity, and a touch of culinary elegance.

We love the way this tour balances scenic beauty with expert insights, making it clear that it’s more than just a wine tasting trip — it’s a full immersion into the heart of New Zealand’s premier wine country. The personalized touch of having a chef guide, who can suggest perfect pairings and explain the nuances of each vineyard’s offerings, sets this tour apart. And the inclusion of a gourmet, custom-made lunch—paired with three wine tastings—makes this a true gastronomic adventure.

One possible consideration is the price point. At nearly $400, it’s on the higher end, but many reviewers find the quality of the experience and the personalized service well worth the investment. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate wine, food, and authentic regional stories and are happy to pay for a curated, intimate experience rather than large-group tastings.

If you’re looking for an educational yet relaxed day in a beautiful setting, this tour offers an ideal mix. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and travelers eager to learn about Pinot Noir—the region’s star—and enjoy some of the best boutique wineries New Zealand has to offer.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Led by a qualified French chef who shares culinary and regional insights.
• Scenic Journey: Enjoy a drive over the Remutaka Ranges, with a scenic stop at the summit.
• Premium Wineries: Visit 3 boutique vineyards, including Moy Hall, B.wines, and Margrain.
• Gourmet Lunch: Savor a custom-made meal designed to complement the wine tastings.
• In-depth Tastings: Four samples per venue, focusing on award-winning Pinot Noir and other varietals.
• Expert Guidance: Learn from a guide who is both knowledgeable about wine and passionate about the region’s history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Martinborough Experience in Detail

The Itinerary and Journey

Starting from Wellington, your guided tour begins with an estimated pickup time, with transportation arranged so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The drive over the Remutaka Ranges is a highlight in itself—expect sweeping views and perhaps a few photo stops. The summit offers a panoramic vista of the Wairarapa plains, setting a perfect tone for what’s to come.

Descending into the Martinborough region, you’ll immediately sense the area’s distinct charm. Known for its Scottish heritage and pioneer spirit, this small town has grown into a world-class wine destination. The region’s climate and soil conditions—similar to Burgundy—are credited with producing exceptional Pinot Noir. This is the backbone of local viticulture, and your guide will explain how the region’s climate, soil, and winemaking traditions merge to create such award-winning wines.

Vineyard Visits: Boutique Wineries with a Personal Touch

Unlike large commercial tours, this experience focuses on three carefully selected wineries, each offering a unique flavor profile and story. For example, Moy Hall is known for its expressive Pinots and warm, welcoming atmosphere. B.wines, run by Christine, offers a Swiss perspective on Burgundian winemaking—adding a European flair to the region. Margrain, one of the longstanding wineries, is celebrated for its elegant wines and scenic vineyard setting.

You’ll get to walk through vineyards and meet winemakers like Shawn Brown, a master of Pinot Noir, who produces wines he genuinely enjoys drinking himself. The reviews highlight that these encounters are often presented by the winemakers themselves, making it a truly personal experience. Such direct engagement allows you to ask questions about winemaking techniques, grape varieties, and regional influences.

The Gourmet Lunch: A Highlight

What sets this tour apart is the luxurious yet approachable gourmet lunch. The chef guides you through a carefully curated meal, typically featuring one main dish per person, complemented by wine pairings. The food is described as unbelievable, with charcuterie boards and local ingredients carefully chosen to match the wines. This is a major value add, elevating the experience from a simple tasting to a culinary exploration.

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The Guide and Personal Touch

A consistent theme in reviews is the knowledgeable and passionate guide, often Shawn or Aaron, who is praised for his professionalism and depth of knowledge. We loved the way guides select panoramic viewpoints that showcase the region’s natural beauty, adding a visual dimension to the experience. They also share insights into the history and development of Martinborough, making the trip more meaningful.

What to Expect and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 6 hours, with hotel pickups and drop-offs included. It’s a private group experience, so you get personalized attention. The small group size enhances the relaxed atmosphere, allowing for more intimate conversations and flexibility.

You’ll taste three wines at each winery, with about 50 mls per sample—more than enough to appreciate each wine’s character. Bottled water is provided, and the guide offers commentary throughout, translating wine jargon into enjoyable, understandable language.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, mainly due to wine tastings. Also, remember to bring warm clothing and sunscreen—the weather can vary, and some stops involve outdoor walking.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

What makes this tour special is its focus on authenticity. It’s clear that the guides and winemakers aim to share what they love about the region. The stories of the wineries, the regional history, and the passion behind each glass shine through.

The reviews reinforce that this is a high-quality experience. One traveler from the US exclaimed, “Aaron was extremely informative and shared a wealth of knowledge,” and appreciated the panoramic stops that “were breathtaking.” Another from Ireland called it a “top class lunch” paired with “fabulous wineries,” making it clear that the combination of good wine, good food, and good company makes it memorable.

The Value for Money

While the $395 price might seem steep, the experience offers value through exclusivity and quality. You’re not just tasting wine—you’re learning about regional terroir, meeting passionate producers, and enjoying a delicious meal—all in a personalized, intimate setting. Many reviewers feel that the expert guidance and the gourmet lunch justify the cost, especially compared to larger, less personal tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and wine enthusiasts who want a personalized, informative journey through one of New Zealand’s top wine regions. It’s perfect if you value small groups, expert guides, and a gourmet meal that complements your wine tastings. If you’re eager to learn about Pinot Noir and enjoy a luxurious, relaxed day, this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a fast-paced, large-group tasting** or those with mobility restrictions. Also, if you prefer wine by the glass or bottle on your own schedule, the included tastings might feel limited, since wine by the glass or bottle is not included in the price.

Final Thoughts

The Chefs Private Martinborough wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of New Zealand’s premier wine region, with a focus on personalized service, regional storytelling, and culinary excellence. You’ll enjoy stunning views, learn from passionate winemakers, and indulge in a gourmet lunch that elevates the entire day.

This tour suits serious wine lovers, foodies, and travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and expert guidance. If you want a balanced blend of scenery, education, and gourmet food, it’s hard to beat.

In a country famed for its wine, this tour delivers an insider’s perspective, making it more than just a day of tastings—it’s a memorable journey into the soul of Wairarapa’s wine culture.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickups and drop-offs, three wine tastings at boutique wineries, a gourmet lunch, commentary from the guide, and bottled water. Each venue offers about four samples, and you get to enjoy a main course with wine pairings.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, tastings, and meal without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it available to a broader range of travelers.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
While you can taste wine, the price does not include wine by the glass or bottle, so additional purchases are up to you.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing and sunscreen, especially if the weather is variable. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around vineyards.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
This experience is a private group, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are children or pregnant women allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women because of the wine tastings.

What makes this tour different from others?
The focus on personalized guidance from a French-trained chef, combined with scenic drives and a gourmet lunch, makes this experience stand out. It’s designed to be both educational and indulgent, perfect for those who want more than just a tasting.

This Martinborough wine tour is a fine choice for those seeking a deliberate, quality experience in New Zealand’s top wine region. With expert guides and a focus on authenticity and comfort, it promises a memorable day that combines scenery, flavors, and stories—all tailored to your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: