Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour

Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour — A Full-Bodied Experience in New Zealand’s South Island

If you’re looking to savor some of the finest craft beers, gins, and whiskies while enjoying the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s Marlborough region, this 7-hour guided tour might just be your perfect day out. For $498 per group (up to 2 people), you get a well-rounded experience that combines tastings at renowned breweries and distilleries, a bit of local shopping, and even a flexible lunch option. It’s designed for those who want to sip, learn, and take in the beautiful Marlborough landscape, all in a cozy, small-group setting.

Two things we especially love about this tour are the diversity of tastings — from craft beers at Moa Brewery to artisan whiskies and gin flights — and the relaxed, informal atmosphere that encourages genuine conversations with guides and fellow travelers. The focus on local products and the opportunity to pick up unique food and craft souvenirs make it a memorable way to support Marlborough’s vibrant food and beverage scene.

One possible consideration is that lunch isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget for food during the day or opt for the included or nearby dining options. Also, as the itinerary depends on seasonal hours, some venues might change, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re visiting outside peak seasons.

This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy tasting tours, whether you’re a seasoned drinker or simply curious about local spirits and brews. If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend who appreciates a laid-back day of sampling and sightseeing, you’ll find this experience hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse tastings: From craft beers and ciders to boutique gins and whiskies, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
• Beautiful scenery: The stops are set against Marlborough’s scenic vineyards and countryside, perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.
• Local support: You’ll be buying and tasting local products, adding authenticity to your experience.
• Small group setting: With up to 4 participants, you get a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible options: Tours may vary with seasons, and substitutes like boutique winery visits are possible.
• No included lunch: Be prepared to purchase food separately, which allows you to choose a meal that suits your taste and budget.

Discovering Marlborough’s Craft Beverage Scene

This tour offers more than just a few tastings — it’s an introduction to Marlborough’s vibrant craft scene. You’ll start your journey with a visit to the Cheese & Cheers Whiskey Tasting Room, where you can sample three whiskeys paired with local cheeses. The combination highlights how Marlborough’s producers pay close attention to pairing and flavor, making each sip memorable. The reviews show that many travelers enjoy the pairing, with comments like “the whiskey tastings paired with cheese were a highlight,” or “it’s great to taste local spirits in a cozy setting.”

Next, you’ll head to the Roots Gin Shack, where three recent gin releases await. This is a real treat for gin lovers, especially as the guide explains the distillation process and what makes Roots Gin stand out. It’s a good chance to learn about craft gin production, which has become increasingly popular in New Zealand. Many guests appreciate the informal, friendly atmosphere at the Gin Shack and mention that they enjoyed tasting the unique botanical flavors.

The day continues with a visit to the Larder & Giftware shop, a perfect spot to pick up local food products and crafts. It’s more than just a souvenir stop; many travelers find it interesting to see the high-quality local produce, which can be a nice takeaway or a gift.

You’ll also visit Moa Brewery, renowned for its craft beers and ciders. Here, you’ll enjoy a flight of 6 different beers and ciders, giving you a broad taste of what Marlborough’s craft brewing scene has to offer. The brewery’s lively atmosphere and the variety of flavors mean you can choose your favorites and discuss what makes Marlborough beer special. One traveler noted, “The Moa Brewery was great — I loved trying the different ciders, especially the apple one.”

Along With these highlights, the tour offers the option to sample 5-6 mixed craft beers at either Fancy Cow or Ant Moore Wines, providing a taste of Marlborough wine culture if you prefer wine over beer. The flexibility here appeals to different tastes and keeps the experience fresh.

If time permits, some groups might visit the Makana Boutique Chocolate Factory & Gift Shop, a sweet ending to the day, as many reviews point out that the chocolates are “absolutely delicious” and well worth the stop.

A Well-Organized Itinerary with Flexibility

The day starts with a complimentary pickup from your central Blenheim accommodation, which is a real convenience. The itinerary is carefully designed to maximize tasting opportunities without feeling rushed. You’ll visit four main stops, each offering its own unique focus — spirits, beer, or local goodies.

The tour’s core experience includes 3 whisky tastings, 3 gin tastings, and 6 tap beers at Moa Brewery, which adds up to a very comprehensive tasting experience. The inclusion of transportation means you can relax and enjoy the drinks without worry.

While the exact schedule can vary based on the season and venue hours, the tour generally follows a sequence that combines tastings with opportunities to enjoy local lunch options. You’ll choose from venues like Fancy Cow, DNA Brewery, or the Dodson Street Beer Garden. Many reviews note that the lunch options are excellent and well worth the extra cost if you decide to purchase food.

The tour ends with a return transfer to your accommodation, making for a convenient and stress-free day. The small-group size — capped at four participants — ensures a intimate experience where you can ask questions, get personalized attention, and truly savor each tasting.

Transport, Price, and Overall Value

For $498, you’re not just paying for tastings but for a full-day curated experience. Transportation, multiple tastings, and hotel pickup are included, which simplifies logistics and offers great value, especially considering the high quality and variety of experiences.

Compared to DIY tasting days, this guided tour provides deeper insights into the local products, making it a valuable option for those new to Marlborough or anyone wanting a curated experience without the hassle of organizing multiple visits themselves.

The price per person might seem steep just for tastings, but when you consider the variety, the expert guides, and the convenience, it becomes more justifiable. Plus, supporting local producers and enjoying a scenic drive adds to the overall value.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults interested in craft drinks and local food. It’s suited for couples, friends, or small groups who appreciate a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Marlborough’s beverage scene. If you’re a wine enthusiast who wants to explore beyond Marlborough’s famous vineyards, or a craft beer lover eager to taste a wide variety, this tour hits the sweet spot.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, as the focus is on alcoholic beverages. If your time in Marlborough is limited or you prefer a more flexible, free-form tasting experience, you may want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this tour offers a well-balanced combination of tastings, local shopping, and scenic travel. It’s a fantastic way to understand Marlborough’s craft beverage culture in a relaxed setting. The small-group format creates an intimate environment, making it ideal for travelers who value personal interaction and in-depth knowledge.

While you will need to plan for lunch separately, the variety of stops ensures you won’t go hungry, and the quality of the tastings more than justifies the price. The stunning views and authentic local products make this a worthwhile addition to any Marlborough itinerary, especially if you want to learn about and taste some of New Zealand’s best craft spirits and brews.

Whether you’re a spirits aficionado or just curious to see what makes Marlborough’s craft scene so special, this tour offers a memorable, flavorful day out in New Zealand’s premier wine region.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour starts with a complimentary pickup from your central Blenheim accommodation. If you’re outside this area, contact the provider for options, which may include additional charges.

How long is the tour?
The tour runs for approximately 7 hours, giving ample time for tastings and travel between stops, with start times typically around 10:30 am.

Are food and lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, but there are excellent dining options available at some stops, which you can purchase separately.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 4 participants, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be adjusted based on seasonal availability and guest requests, including substituting certain cellar door experiences.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s designed for adults, and alcohol consumption is part of the experience, so it’s not suitable for children or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there may be some walking involved. Remember to bring your ID for age verification if necessary.

To sum it up, this Marlborough craft beverage tour provides a well-crafted, authentic taste of New Zealand’s vibrant spirits and brewing culture, set against some of the most scenic views in the region. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a small-group, personalized experience that’s both fun and educational.

You can check availability for your dates here: