Discovery Tasting and Lunch

Discovering the Charm of Rowlee Wines: A Full Review of the Discovery Tasting and Lunch Experience

If you’re exploring Australia’s northern New South Wales region, particularly around Mount Canobolas, a visit to Rowlee Wines offers more than just a sip of wine—it’s a full immersion into a landscape of craftsmanship, family tradition, and high-altitude cool-climate viticulture. The Discovery Tasting and Lunch is a carefully curated 3-hour experience, costing around $200.25 per group (up to 2), which includes a private tasting, a shared meal, and a bottle of wine to take home. It’s designed for both wine novices eager to learn and seasoned connoisseurs seeking a relaxed, authentic experience amid scenic vistas.

What makes this tour stand out are two key features. First, the chance to sample award-winning boutique wines that highlight the unique qualities of high-altitude, cool-climate vineyards—something you won’t find everywhere. Second, the opportunity for a private vineyard tour and personal insights from the knowledgeable guide, which adds a layer of intimacy and education not often available in larger group tastings. The setting beneath Mount Canobolas provides a stunning backdrop that perfectly complements the tasting experience.

A potential consideration is that the tour is quite intimate and scheduled for 11:00 am, meaning you’ll want to plan your day accordingly, especially if you’re coming from further afield or need transportation. Since private transport isn’t included, arriving by your own means or arranging ahead is advisable. Also, the experience is strictly for guests 18 and older, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated if noted in advance.

Ultimately, this experience is ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, upscale outing that combines wine education, scenic beauty, and gourmet food. It’s perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a personal connection to the land and family behind Rowlee Wines.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with private tastings and vineyard tour
• Award-winning boutique wines showcasing high-altitude, cool-climate varieties
• Gourmet shared lunch paired with wine, including unique dishes like mother dough flatbread
• Authentic family legacy that dates back 20 years, emphasizing craftsmanship
• Customizable dietary options available if informed in advance
• Ideal for couples and small groups seeking a relaxed, educational, and scenic wine experience

An In-Depth Look at the Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines

We found that this tour offers a refreshing change from typical wine tastings. It synergizes educational insight with delicious food and stunning scenery—a true testament to what makes New South Wales a notable wine region.

The Location and Setting

Starting at Rowlee Wines on Lake Canobolas Road, you’re greeted with an inviting view of the rolling vineyards set against the backdrop of Mount Canobolas, a dormant volcano that influences the region’s cool-climate growing conditions. The setting is both peaceful and inspiring, setting the tone for a memorable experience. The modern but cozy Cellar Door provides the perfect venue for tasting, with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who clearly loves sharing their passion.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your adventure begins at 11:00 am, with a private guided tasting of current release wines. Expect a curated selection that highlights the land’s influence on flavor, focusing on varieties that flourish in high-altitude conditions. The guide explains how site, variety, and winemaking techniques come together to produce wines of award-winning quality.

Following the tasting, you’ll move to the Rowlee Dining and Bar area for a shared set menu lunch. The menu is thoughtfully crafted, featuring local ingredients, and one of the standout dishes is the mother dough flatbread with whipped house butter, which was described as “a gustatory experience” by one reviewer. A bottle of Rowlee wine accompanies your meal, providing the perfect pairing and allowing you to slowly savor the flavors while soaking in the scenic views.

What Makes Rowlee Wines Special?

Family legacy and craftsmanship are woven into every sip here. The owner and winemaker have been producing boutique wines for 20 years, emphasizing quality over quantity. This small-scale approach ensures you’re tasting wines that are carefully crafted and expressive of the region’s unique terroir.

The private vineyard tour component is a highlight, offering insight into vineyard management and harvest practices. The guide’s knowledge makes the experience engaging—no question is too small. As one reviewer raved, “First-class venue with exceptional service, menu, food, and accompanying wines,” clearly indicating the high standards maintained across the board.

Authentic and Authenticity-Packed Experience

What truly stands out are the authentic touches—from the personalized guide to the family-run atmosphere. The reviews echo this sentiment, with visitors remarking on the exceptional service and delicious food. One traveler from Sydney said, “Well worth the trip,” and appreciated the “first-class venue,” confirming the tour’s value for money and specialty.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning promptly at 11:00 am. Since it’s a private activity, your group will enjoy undivided attention, enhancing the overall experience. The price of $200.25 might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in the exclusive tastings, gourmet lunch, and a bottle of wine to take home, it offers considerable value—particularly for those wanting a personalized, relaxed experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates small-scale wineries, boutique wines, and family stories, this tour hits all the right notes. It caters especially well to couples or small groups seeking a romantic, educational outing away from busy tourist traps. It’s also suitable for food and wine lovers who want to indulge in a gourmet meal paired with local wines in a scenic, peaceful setting.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

The Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines offers a combination of authentic family-run charm, high-quality wines, and scenic beauty. It’s a perfect choice for small groups or couples looking for a relaxed, educational, and gourmet experience that’s a cut above typical winery visits. The personalized approach and intimate setting provide a sense of connection to the land and the people behind the wines, making it an enriching and memorable part of your trip.

While the cost isn’t the cheapest, the quality of wines, food, and personalized service justify the price for those seeking a special, upscale experience. Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so plan logistics accordingly, especially if you’re coming from afar.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to genuine hospitality and exquisite wines, this tour is a wonderful way to explore Australia’s vibrant wine scene in a relaxed, scenic setting.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for guests 18 years and older, as alcohol consumption is involved.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours, beginning at 11:00 am, including tastings, tour, and lunch.

Is transportation included?
Transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to and from Rowlee Wines.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions can be arranged if you notify the provider when booking.

What does the price include?
The fee covers the private tasting of current wines, a gourmet set menu lunch, a bottle of Rowlee wine to take home, and a guided vineyard tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 7 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak times.