Napier Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste ( no gin Mon – Wed )

Napier Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste: A Delicious Dive into Hawke’s Bay

When you think of New Zealand’s wine regions, Hawke’s Bay in Napier often comes to mind for its exceptional Chardonnay and Bordeaux-style reds. This tour, priced at $139.65 per person, offers a satisfying 5.5-hour journey through the region’s best wineries and a memorable gin tasting, all with a gourmet touch. Led by a personable guide, Ross, you’ll visit Mission Estate Winery, National Tobacco Company Building, and Askerne Estate, enjoying wine and gin tastings along the way, plus a delicious lunch platter at Mission Estate.

What makes this tour really shine are two things: first, the personalized experience thanks to the small group size—limiting to just 13 guests—which ensures plenty of interaction and attention. Second, the quality of the tastings and food. Ross’s deep knowledge and friendly manner make even non-wine drinkers like us feel comfortable and engaged.

A potential downside is that no gin tasting occurs Monday through Wednesday, limiting that particular experience to the rest of the week. Also, the tour is quite full, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed pace, keep that in mind.

If you’re interested in exploring Hawke’s Bay’s wine and gin scene, enjoy tasty food paired with your drinks, and prefer a guided experience that feels intimate rather than commercial, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially perfect for those who love learning about wine production, sampling local spirits, and savoring regional cuisine—all in a friendly, informal setting.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Includes a gourmet lunch paired with wine, making it a value-rich experience
• Expert guide Ross shares insightful stories and local knowledge
• Wine-tasting fees are included, so no hidden costs
• Visit iconic venues like Mission Estate and the historic National Tobacco Building
• Optionally includes a gin-tasting session, a true highlight for spirit enthusiasts

A Deep Dive Into the Napier Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste Tour

The Perfect Introduction to Hawke’s Bay’s Winemaking Heritage

This tour is a well-rounded look at Hawke’s Bay’s wine culture, starting around noon with a pickup from your Napier accommodation. The early afternoon kicks off at the Mission Estate Winery, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic wineries. The highlight here is the gourmet platter lunch, which features a hearty mix of cold meats, cheeses, breads, fresh and dried fruits, and hot seafood bites. It’s not just a snack—it’s a thoughtfully prepared meal that pairs beautifully with a glass from the estate’s selection—a real treat after a morning of travel.

The lunch experience is praised for its quality and generous servings. Reviewers often mention the deliciousness of the food, calling it a “fantastic lunch” and “a special experience,” which elevates the outing from a simple wine tasting to a true culinary highlight.

Learning About Local Winemaking

Post-lunch, you’ll participate in a guided tasting at Mission Cellars, your second stop here. The wine talk is a chance to learn about the region’s grape-growing, vineyard management, and what makes Hawke’s Bay wines unique. The underground cellar exploration adds a fun, atmospheric touch, allowing you to imagine how wine is stored and aged in traditional ways.

Many visitors comment on the knowledgeable guidance. Amanda_M mentions Ross as “a fabulous tour guide,” while Stacy_O notes that Ross “has good knowledge of the area and wineries.” This level of expertise makes a significant difference, helping you appreciate each sip a little more.

The Spirit of Napier: Gin Tasting at the National Tobacco Building

Next, the tour ventures into the National Tobacco Company Building, an Art Deco masterpiece. Here, the gin tasting is a standout—if you’re visiting on a day when the activity is available, that is. Guests rave about the “great gin” and the building’s historic charm. Ross’s commentary makes this stop both educational and fun.

However, if you’re on a Monday through Wednesday, be aware that the gin tasting is not offered, which may be a slight disappointment if you’re especially interested in spirits. Still, the other stops compensate well with excellent wines and a lovely ambiance.

Concluding with Wine and Cheese at Askerne Estate

The final stop is Askerne Estate, where sampling cheese and crackers alongside local wines is the perfect way to wind down. Ross’s friendly approach and the generous tastings earn high praise. Guests often mention the informal, welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Practical Details and Group Dynamics

This tour is capped at 13 travelers, fostering an intimate environment ideal for conversations and questions. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minibus, and pickup/drop-off is included—crucial for hassle-free planning. Bottled water and a souvenir wine glass from Mission Estate round out the experience, adding a little extra to remember the day.

The duration—about five and a half hours—strikes a good balance between experiencing enough without feeling rushed. The tour generally starts at 12:00 pm and returns to your hotel in the early evening, giving you a relaxed pace to soak in the sights and tastes.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledge and friendliness of Ross, describing him as “a fabulous guide,” “personable,” and “very accommodating.” Many comments echo that the wine selections are excellent—especially the region’s acclaimed Chardonnay—and that the lunch and snacks are substantial and tasty.

Amanda_M sums it up nicely: “Ross was a fabulous tour guide that drove us to our destination. First stop Mission Estate, what a platter! Wine was superb, gin tasting next, and then onto the last winery with a delicious picnic of cheese and crackers.”

Even those who aren’t heavy drinkers find value here, with Jason_W noting, “We are not big drinkers but really enjoyed our experience,” thanks to the friendly hosts and engaging explanations.

A Few Tips for Future Guests

• Book at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak season, as this tour is popular.
• If gin tasting is a must for you, plan your visit on a weekday.
• Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to explore the underground cellar or spend time outdoors.
• Keep an open mind about trying different varietals—Hawke’s Bay wines are often surprisingly delightful.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger, less personal wine tours, this experience provides genuine insights into Hawke’s Bay’s winemaking and spirits scene, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The inclusive tastings, gourmet lunch, and small-group setting make it worth the price, especially given the quality of the food and the expert guidance.

You’ll leave with a better understanding of New Zealand wines, some unique local spirits, and a souvenir glass that’s a nice keepsake. For lovers of good food, authentic wines, and engaging storytelling, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, educational introduction to Hawke’s Bay’s wine scene. It suits those who enjoy tastings paired with food and are curious about local spirits, too. The small group means it’s perfect if you prefer a more intimate, relaxed environment rather than large bus tours. If you’re a non-drinker but still curious about wine culture, many guests find the guide’s insights and the scenery enriching without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, even if you’re not big on wine or gin, the tour offers plenty of interesting information about the region’s wineries, and the food is hearty and well-prepared. The social aspect and scenic stops make it enjoyable regardless.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers all wine-tasting fees, the gourmet lunch platter with a glass of estate wine, cheese and biscuits, and the souvenir wine glass. Pickup and drop-off are also included.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
The menu is set, but it’s a good idea to mention any dietary needs when booking. The focus is on standard offerings like cheese, seafood, and meats, but special requests might be accommodated with prior notice.

Is the gin tasting available every day?
No, the gin tasting takes place Tuesday through Sunday. It’s not available Monday through Wednesday, so plan your visit accordingly if that experience is important to you.

How many people are in the tour?
The tour is limited to 13 guests maximum, creating an intimate setting that allows for personal interaction and a relaxed pace.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, starting around noon and returning in the early evening, perfect for experiencing the best of Hawke’s Bay without long waits or rushes.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor stops and wine tastings are recommended. Bring layers if you’re visiting during cooler months, and don’t forget your camera!

To sum it up, this Napier Gourmet Luncheon + Winery & Gin Taste tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Hawke’s Bay’s wine and spirits scene, wrapped in the friendliness of a small-group experience. If you’re looking to combine great regional wines, a delicious lunch, and engaging storytelling—plus some plane rides for your palate—you’ll find this tour highly rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace, personal attention, and a genuine connection to local producers. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, this journey will leave you with more than just a souvenir glass – it leaves you with a true appreciation for Hawke’s Bay’s vibrant drink culture.