Private Marlborough Winery Tour

Experience Marlborough in Your Own Way: Private Winery Tour from Picton

When you think of Marlborough, New Zealand’s largest wine-growing region, picture rolling vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, dotted with boutique wineries and iconic brands like Cloudy Bay. This private Marlborough winery tour offers a flexible, personalized way to explore this renowned region, starting from Picton. For around $458 per person, you’ll spend approximately six hours enjoying exclusive tastings, scenic views, and a relaxed pace without the chaos of a big tour group.

What we love most about this experience is its customization—you can choose your stops or have an expert guide select venues based on your interests. Plus, the door-to-door transfer makes logistics effortless, leaving you to focus on savoring wine and scenery. On the flip side, it’s important to note that lunch isn’t included in the price, so be prepared to budget that in. Designed for wine lovers, families, or anyone wanting a more intimate look at Marlborough’s wine scene, this tour appeals especially to those who value comfort and expert guidance over rushing through a set itinerary.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Custom stops or guided choices tailored to your preferences.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: Fees are covered, making it easier to enjoy without extra costs.
• Scenic Views & Authentic Wineries: Enjoy Marlborough’s lush vineyards and family-run wineries.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, with door-to-door transfers from Picton and nearby areas.
• Extra Costs: Lunch at wineries is at your own expense, so plan accordingly.
• Family-Friendly Options: Can include family-oriented wineries if requested.

Deep Dive into the Marlborough Private Wine Tour

This tour is designed for those who want to experience Marlborough at their own pace without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or following a large group. We’ll start at 10:30 am, with pick-up from your accommodation in Blenheim or Renwick, or with additional charge, nearby towns like Picton, Havelock, or Rarangi. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and you’ll have ample time to relax, take photos, and chat with your guide.

The Itinerary — What You’ll Visit and Why It Matters

Stop 1: Lawsons Dry Hills
Our journey begins at one of the region’s favorite boutique wineries. Known for their knowledgeable staff and interesting wines, Lawsons Dry Hills offers a warm, personal introduction to Marlborough’s wine culture. Travelers often praise the staff’s expertise, which makes tasting more engaging and educational. Expect about an hour here, with tastings included in your fee.

Stop 2: Clos Henri Vineyard
Next, you’ll visit a scenic organic vineyard with a focus on unique terroir. The organically grown vineyards and expressive wines make this stop particularly special. Reviewers love the knowledgeable staff and the chance to see sustainable practices firsthand. This stop also offers stunning views, perfect for photo enthusiasts. Tasting fees are included, and the experience here often emphasizes the art of organic winemaking.

Stop 3: Cloudy Bay
A visit to Marlborough wouldn’t be complete without tasting the iconic Cloudy Bay wines. While the tasting is optional, it’s often a highlight, and included in the tour. You’ll spend around 40 minutes here, soaking in the atmosphere of one of New Zealand’s most famous wine labels. Many guests comment on the quality of the wines and the informative staff.

Stop 4: Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen
For lunch, Saint Clair offers a delightful setting with a focus on local flavors. While the tour doesn’t include lunch in the price, many find this one of the best stops — with a cozy atmosphere and high-quality options. The family-oriented vibe and excellent food make it a memorable part of the day. If the weather permits, it’s a relaxing way to break up the wine tasting.

Stop 5: Makana Confections
A sweet finale at Makana Confections offers a chocolate tasting that’s small but memorable. The aroma of freshly made chocolate and the chance to see artisans at work make this stop well worth a quick visit. It’s a nice way to satisfy your sweet tooth and appreciate local craftsmanship.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides like Darlene and Phil make all the difference. Guests often mention the personalized service, with guides adjusting stops based on interests — making each tour unique. One review highlighted, “Darlene explained winemaking in a way that was easy to understand,” showing how clarity and passion enhance the experience.

The scenic vineyards, combined with the passion of staff at each winery, make for a truly immersive day. Reviewers frequently praise the quality of wines, noting that some of the best they’ve ever tasted come from this tour. The small group size and private nature also allow for more relaxed conversations and deeper engagement with the wine and scenery.

Some guests mention that the price, while higher than a standard group tour, offers good value because of the exclusive access, personalized service, and high-quality stops. The tastings are included, which simplifies the experience and avoids unexpected costs.

Logistics and Practicalities

The duration of about six hours strikes a good balance — enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The door-to-door transfers from Blenheim or Renwick are convenient, especially if you’re not keen to drive after sampling wines. Remember to bring closed shoes for winery visits and plan to have a good breakfast to start your day energized.

While lunch is not included, the stops at Saint Clair or similar venues are highly recommended for their delicious food and scenic settings. Budget extra for this meal, and consider dietary preferences when planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you value personalized attention, want to spend quality time at each winery, and appreciate expert guides who can tailor the experience to your interests, this private tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for wine enthusiasts wanting to deepen their knowledge, families seeking a flexible and relaxed day, or small groups eager for authentic, boutique winery visits. If you’re after a seamless day, without self-driving worries, and enjoy scenic vineyard views, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or seeking a quick overview, this might be pricier than some group options. Also, keep in mind that lunch is at your own expense—a small consideration for those looking for an all-inclusive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
It costs approximately $458.34 per person, which includes all wine tasting fees and transfers from Blenheim and Renwick.

How long does the tour last?
It’s about six hours, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the wineries, scenery, and some food stops.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included in the price, but stops like Saint Clair Family Estate provide excellent options at your own cost.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, you can choose your preferred wineries or let the guide select venues based on your interests.

Is pickup included?
Yes, door-to-door pickup and drop-off from Blenheim or Renwick are included. Additional charges may apply for transfers from Picton, Havelock, or Rarangi.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, closed shoes for winery visits and dress in layers to suit the weather.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it can include family-oriented wineries if requested, making it suitable for a range of ages.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 191 days in advance, and confirmation is provided at the time of booking.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
The private, customizable aspect, along with knowledgeable guides and exclusive access to boutique wineries, offers a more intimate and tailored experience.

What if the weather is bad?
Some stops are indoors or offer sheltered areas, and guides can adjust the itinerary to suit weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This private Marlborough winery tour from Picton is a solid choice for anyone wanting a luxurious, personalized day exploring New Zealand’s premier wine region. It offers a balance of scenic beauty, authentic winery visits, and expert guidance, making it ideal for those who appreciate quality over quantity. The inclusion of all tastings and door-to-door transfers adds to the value, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local roads or wishing to avoid driving.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the flexibility, comfort, and depth of experience make it worth considering. Whether celebrating a special occasion, deepening your wine knowledge, or simply wanting to enjoy Marlborough’s best without the hassle, this tour delivers a memorable and authentic taste of New Zealand’s wine country.

In essence, if you’re after a well-organized, intimate tour with exceptional guides and access to some of Marlborough’s finest wineries, this private experience is hard to beat. It’s an excellent way to indulge your senses while learning from passionate locals — a day you’ll remember long after the glasses are empty.