Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog | Adults Only

A wine lover’s dream in Queenstown, the Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog offers a relaxed, adult-focused way to sample some of New Zealand’s finest Central Otago wines. Priced at just over $176 per person, this approximately five-hour experience takes you through three carefully selected boutique wineries in the scenic Gibbston Valley, with a chance to explore an historic wine cave and enjoy a leisurely lunch (at your own expense). Led by friendly guides—like Emma, who gets high praise from reviews—you’ll get personalized attention in a small-group setting, capped at ten participants, making for an intimate, engaging experience.

What we love about this tour is the behind-the-scenes wine cave tour at Gibbston Valley, where you’ll go underground in New Zealand’s largest wine cave to see how premium wines are stored and crafted. Plus, the presence of Bella, the adorable dog, adds a welcoming, relaxed vibe that appeals to canine lovers and those seeking an extra touch of personality. Another highlight is the knowledgeable guides who keep the commentary engaging and informative, helping you understand the region’s wine-making craft while keeping the atmosphere fun and light.

A potential consideration: lunch is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget extra for a meal at one of the wineries, which many reviewers find worth the splurge. Also, since this is exclusively for adults, it’s not suitable for families or travelers with young children. This tour suits those who enjoy good wine, scenic drives, and a small, friendly group setting—ideal for couples, friends, or wine enthusiasts wanting insider access without the stress of organizing.

Key Points

• Small-group touring ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Behind-the-scenes wine cave visit adds an authentic touch and insight into wine storage.
• Expert guides like Emma and Rob make the experience engaging and informative.
• Adults-only policy creates a calm environment perfect for wine lovers.
• Flexible stops and varied wineries mean you’ll taste a broad range of styles and varietals.
• Lunch not included, so plan to indulge at your own expense for a full experience.

Exploring the Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog in Depth

The Scenic Drive and Boutique Wineries

Starting at 10 a.m. from 43 Camp Street, Queenstown, the tour kicks off with a comfortable ride through Central Otago’s iconic Gibbston Valley. Think lush vineyards, rolling hills, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to snap photos at every turn. We loved the way the modern minivan ensures a smooth, climate-controlled journey—important for comfort in any weather.

The first stop is the Gibbston Valley Winery, known as New Zealand’s largest wine cave. This is more than just a cellar visit; it’s an experience. You’ll descend into a historic underground wine cave with a guide, typically called Rob in reviews, explaining how wine is stored and aged in cool, stable conditions. Over a 30-minute guided tour, you’ll see the intricacies of wine production up close, and taste some of their best varietals—most notably their renowned Pinot Noir, along with whites.

Next, the tour visits Kinross Winery and Cottages. Here, the focus is on showcasing the region’s exceptional wines and sharing stories about the local industry. The friendly cellar door staff and guides give a more personal insight into what makes Central Otago wines so special—especially their bold reds and crisp whites. Many reviews mention how Emma, the guide, provides insightful commentary that enhances the tasting experience.

The Winery Lunch: A Relaxed Break

While the tour price covers tastings and cave visits, lunch at Kinross’s winery restaurant is an optional addition. You can relax in the beautiful Wine Garden or cozy up inside the Bistro. Many guests find this a highlight—delicious cuisine crafted by Chef Pete Franklin, often enjoyed alongside more wine tasting. Since lunch isn’t included, you might want to budget roughly $30-$50 for a meal, depending on your appetite.

The Spectacular Stop at Amisfield

The final stop is the Amisfield Restaurant and Cellar Door, famous for its stunning architecture and panoramic views over Lake Hayes and the surrounding mountains. This location embodies the spirit of Central Otago, blending scenic beauty with high-quality wine and food. While the tasting here is free, it’s a chance to savor some of the region’s best wines in a setting that feels like a reward after a day of tasting.

Why This Tour Works

One of the most praised aspects—highlighted repeatedly in reviews—is the small group size (maximum of 10), which makes the experience feel tailored, not rushed. Guides like Emma and Rob are described as knowledgeable, personable, and fun, adding layers of insight that elevate the experience beyond just drinking wine. Reviewers also praise the variety of wineries visited, each offering a different approach to winemaking and tasting, which keeps the day interesting.

Another unique feature is Bella the dog, who accompanies the tour. Visitors love her playful presence, making the experience more relaxed and friendly. As one reviewer noted, “Emma and Bella are amazing hosts,” emphasizing how small touches like this create memorable moments.

The Experience: What to Expect

Traveling in a luxury minivan, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the lush New Zealand landscape. The wine cave visit at Gibbston Valley is a definite highlight, especially for those interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of winemaking. Expect to sample more than 20 wines across the stops, including Pinot Noir, whites, and possibly other varietals.

While tastings are generous, the focus remains on learning and savoring. Many guests mention how guides explain the region’s wine-making techniques and the history of each winery, adding context that makes each sip more meaningful. It’s not just about getting drunk; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship.

The Value of This Tour

At $176, the tour offers a lot—multiple winery visits, a cave tour, guided commentary, and a small, friendly group. For many, the value lies in the insider access: meeting winery owners, exploring historical caves, and enjoying the spectacular scenery. It’s especially attractive for those who want a stress-free experience—no need to worry about driving—since hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who love wine and scenic drives, and who appreciate a small group setting. If you’re looking for a relaxed, educational, and friendly introduction to Central Otago’s wines, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking a memorable, authentic taste of New Zealand’s wine country—without the hassle of planning or driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is an additional cost and can be purchased at the winery restaurant. Many guests find it worthwhile to budget extra for a meal during the day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, including visits to three wineries, a cave tour, and some tasting time.

What’s the group size?
It’s a small-group experience with a maximum of 10 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this is an adults-only experience (18+), to ensure a calm environment focused on wine tasting.

Are pickups offered?
Yes, hotel pickups are available, making the experience more convenient and stress-free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

The Queenstown Wine Tour with Wine Dog offers an engaging, intimate way to explore Central Otago’s exceptional wines in a relaxed setting. Thanks to knowledgeable guides like Emma and Rob, you’ll gain insights that deepen your appreciation for the region’s winemaking while enjoying beautiful scenery and friendly company. The cave tour adds a memorable twist, and the small group size makes it easy to ask questions and connect with fellow wine lovers.

If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, appreciates authentic experiences, and loves small-group tours, this is a fantastic choice. Be prepared to spend a little extra on lunch if you want to full enjoy the day, and don’t forget to bring your camera—those views and wine bottles make for great photos.

For those looking to sample top-tier wines, meet local winemakers, and enjoy a scenic drive through one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions, this tour hits all the right notes. Just remember, it’s adults-only and limited in size, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot among the happy tasters.

Enjoy your journey into Central Otago’s wine country—cheers to discovering some of New Zealand’s best vintages in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful.