Sydney is renowned for its scenic harbor, vibrant city life, and proximity to some of Australia’s top wine regions. While most travelers flock to the beaches or the Opera House, savvy visitors know that exploring the nearby Hunter Valley offers some of the best wine experiences in the country. Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, there’s a tour for you—ranging from gourmet food and wine days led by professional chefs to wildlife safaris combined with tastings. One thing’s for sure: these tours turn a simple day trip into a memorable adventure, filled with fine wines, regional delicacies, and sometimes even koalas.
Among the highlights, the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney stands out for its culinary focus, led by a professional chef who curates an authentic tasting experience. For those wanting a more relaxed and budget-friendly option, the Luxury Hunter Valley Wildlife & Wine Tasting Tour offers a charming mix of native animals and boutique wineries. For nature lovers who want a full-day immersion, the Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney combines stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and excellent wine tastings. No matter your style or budget, these tours promise a chance to taste the best of what this region has to offer.
1. Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney
At number 1 on our list, the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour from Sydney offers a full-day adventure designed for foodies who love wine. This experience is led by a professional chef who personally shops for fresh seafood at the Sydney Fish Market, then crafts gourmet dishes to pair with regional wines. You’ll visit boutique wineries and sample regional specialties like kangaroo steak or freshly rolled sushi. Breakfast and lunch are included, emphasizing the fresh, local ingredients that make Hunter Valley cuisine so appealing.
What makes this tour standout is its focus on pairing gourmet food with fine wines, guided by someone with culinary expertise. The reviews speak volumes—”Jimmy is a fantastic host,” and “the food was gourmet and delicious,” highlight how personal and flavorful this experience is. It’s perfect for those who want a culinary-focused day that combines tasting, learning, and enjoying regional specialties. The full-day format ensures you get a comprehensive taste of Hunter Valley without rushing.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you’re passionate about food and wine pairings, and want a chef’s touch guiding your experience.
2. Luxury Hunter Valley Wildlife & Wine Tasting Tour from Sydney
Taking number 2 on our list, the Luxury Hunter Valley Wildlife & Wine Tasting Tour combines the region’s top attractions—native Australian wildlife and boutique wineries. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience. The tour includes stops at a wildlife park where you can see kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas, plus a chance to feed or pet some animals (though you can’t hold a koala in NSW). Afterwards, enjoy cheese and olive oils at Fat Cow Hunter Valley and indulge in structured tastings at a premium vineyard.
Rated highly for its personalized attention in a small-group setting, guests mention how “seeing and petting the koalas” was a highlight. Lunch and wine tasting are optional but offer a chance to savor local cheeses and wines. The tour’s affordability makes it accessible for most travelers, and its mix of wildlife and wine makes for a memorable day out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for animal lovers and wine enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, small-group experience that blends wildlife and tastings.
3. Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney
Number 3 is the Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Day Tour from Sydney, offering a comprehensive day exploring the Royal National Park, Morton National Park, and Symbio Wildlife Park. It’s suited for those who want a bit of everything—coastal scenery, wildlife, and fine wine—especially if they enjoy hiking and outdoor vistas. The tour features a scenic drive along the Grand Pacific Drive, spotting koalas and kangaroos, hiking to waterfalls, and tasting boutique wines.
Rated highly with “an incredible guide” and “beautiful waterfalls,” this tour is for active travelers who value diverse scenery and experiences. The small group size (max 11) guarantees a personal touch, and the seaside lunch adds a relaxed finish. It’s a full-day well-rounded experience with a focus on natural beauty and regional wines.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want scenic hikes, wildlife encounters, and wine tastings all in one day.
4. Small Group Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin & Choc ex Sydney
Number 4 is the Small Group Hunter Valley Wine Tour + Lunch, Gin & Choc ex Sydney. For around $152, this tour combines three wineries with a gin and vodka distillery and a scenic lunch. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of both wine and spirits, with guided tastings at each stop, including behind-the-scenes tours at some locations.
Guests love how “Drew was an incredible guide,” and the relaxed lunch with views in the valley makes the experience both fun and filling. This tour balances wine, spirits, and regional produce, providing a broad tasting experience at an affordable price. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, making it a good pick for those who enjoy variety.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to sample wines, spirits, and regional food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
5. From Sydney: Full-Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour & Lunch
Number 5 features the Full-Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour & Lunch, a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price ($145). It includes tastings of Semillon and Shiraz, and a visit to a local distillery. The tour offers behind-the-scenes insights into wine production, with a focus on regional flavors.
Guests praise the “great variety of wines” and the “delicious lunch,” making it a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive tour. The guide’s commentary adds value, and the mix of wine and spirits is ideal for casual wine lovers eager to learn more about Hunter Valley’s signature varieties.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a full-day with a focus on iconic Hunter Valley wines and regional spirits.
6. Sydney: Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Small Group Tour
Number 6, the Sydney: Wildlife, Waterfalls and Wine Small Group Tour, is a slightly more intimate version of tour #3. It emphasizes Koala encounters, waterfalls, and boutique wineries. The guide is noted for being personable, making the experience rich with local insights. The tour combines visits to Bald Hill Lookout, Symbio Wildlife Park, and a Southern Highlands winery.
Rated very highly, travelers appreciated the “personalized experience” and the chance to take photos with koalas. It’s suited for those who want a full day exploring nature and enjoying quality wine in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife encounters, coastal views, and boutique wine tasting, all in a small-group setting.
7. From Sydney: Hunter Valley Wine, Gin & Food Tastings Tour
Number 7 is the Hunter Valley Wine, Gin & Food Tastings Tour. This 11.5-hour tour covers three boutique wineries and distilleries, with a 1-course lunch and tastings of wine, spirits, cheese, and chocolates. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive tasting experience combined with local culinary delights.
Guests mention how “Drew shared interesting knowledge,” and the optional lunch with wine or beer adds flexibility. The tour’s focus on both wine and spirits makes it ideal for connoisseurs who appreciate variety.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a full day of wine, spirits, and food pairings with relaxed guidance.
8. Award-Winning Hunter Valley Wine & Cheese Tour from Sydney
Number 8 is the Award-Winning Hunter Valley Wine & Cheese Tour, emphasizing up to 20 wine varieties and cheese tastings. It’s ideal for lovers of gourmet food, featuring visits to boutique wineries and cheese producers. The tour includes a cafe lunch and is rated very highly for its value.
Guests praise the intimate atmosphere and expert guidance. The focus on boutique wineries and cheese makes it popular among foodies and wine collectors alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for gourmet enthusiasts wanting a deep dive into Hunter Valley’s fine wines and cheese.
9. Hunter Valley – Awaken your senses with chocolate, cheese & wine
Number 9, Hunter Valley – Awaken your senses with chocolate, cheese & wine, offers a sensory-rich day exploring historic wineries and scenic vineyards. It includes tastings of wine, cheese, and chocolates, plus a delicious lunch at one of the region’s popular restaurants.
Rated highly for its panoramic views and regional tastings, this tour caters to food and wine lovers who also appreciate a leisurely pace. It’s especially suitable for those wanting to combine gourmet food with a bit of history.
Bottom Line: Great for gastronomes and those wanting a relaxed but flavorful day in Hunter Valley.
10. Paint and Sip Classes Sydney: Acrylic Art, Canvas & Wine
Number 10 moves beyond wine tours into the creative realm with Paint and Sip Classes Sydney. It’s an engaging evening where you’ll learn to paint a masterpiece while enjoying wine or non-alcoholic drinks. All materials are included, and the instructor guides you step-by-step.
Perfect for a fun night out, this experience is less about tasting and more about creating. It’s suitable for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a relaxed, artistic break from sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want a creative, social evening that combines art and wine in a casual setting.
11. Hunter Valley: Wine Tour with 3 Tastings and Garden Lunch
Number 11 is the Hunter Valley: Wine Tour with 3 Tastings and Garden Lunch. It offers a small-group experience visiting three carefully selected wineries, plus a garden setting for lunch. Guests enjoy personalized tastings, meeting winemakers, and exploring boutique shops.
Rated highly, travelers appreciate the “personalized experience” and “educational cheese tasting,” making it perfect for fans of boutique wines and artisan foods.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting an intimate, educational tasting day with a beautiful lunch setting.
12. Sydney Cellar Door – Old Vine Expressions Wine Tasting
Number 12 is a quick but intimate experience, Sydney Cellar Door – Old Vine Expressions Wine Tasting. It features a 45-minute private tasting of rare, decades-old wines right in The Rocks area. It’s perfect for time-pressed wine lovers wanting an insider’s view into Australia’s historic wines.
Rated highly for its personalized attention and “generous pours,” this tour offers a unique peek into Australia’s vintage wine treasures.
Bottom Line: Best for those with limited time but eager to taste rare, aged wines from Australia.
13. Hunter Valley Highlights Private Wine Tour from Sydney
Number 13 is the Hunter Valley Highlights Private Wine Tour. This customizable private tour is perfect for those seeking exclusivity, visiting historic wineries, tasting signature local varieties like Semillon and Shiraz, and enjoying gourmet food. It includes stops like Briar Ridge Vineyard and Hanging Tree Wines, with flexibility to tailor the day.
Guests love the personalized touches, with many praising the “beautiful historic buildings” and “excellent wine.” It’s best suited for travelers who want a tailored experience and are willing to pay a premium.
Bottom Line: Ideal for private groups wanting a bespoke wine adventure with plenty of regional highlights.
14. Sydney: Chef-Led Hunter Valley Food & Wine Tour
Number 14 combines the culinary expertise of a chef with regional tastings. The tour includes an early visit to the Sydney Fish Market, a hot breakfast, and a day of expertly paired food and wine in Hunter Valley. Led by a chef/guide, it emphasizes gourmet dishes and regional flavors.
Rated highly for its culinary focus, it’s perfect for foodies who want a comprehensive, chef-curated experience. The full-day format is worth the price for those seeking both gastronomy and wine.
Bottom Line: Best for serious food lovers wanting an immersive, chef-led tasting journey.
15. From Sydney: All Inclusive Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour
Finally, the All Inclusive Boutique Hunter Valley Wine Tour offers a luxurious, small-group experience visiting three boutique wineries, tasting 20+ premium wines, and sampling artisanal cheeses. It includes a lakeside gourmet lunch with a complimentary glass of wine.
Rated highly at 4.6, this tour is perfect for those who want a premium, intimate experience with expert guidance and carefully curated tasting stops. It’s the most comprehensive on our list, ideal for serious wine aficionados.
Bottom Line: For connoisseurs seeking an exclusive, high-end tasting day with gourmet food and scenic views.
How to Choose the Best Sydney Wine Tour for You
When selecting your ideal wine experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If food pairing is your passion, the Chef-Led Hunter Valley Gourmet Food and Wine Day Tour is a standout. For a relaxed, wildlife-inspired adventure, the Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour combines nature with wine. Budding spirits enthusiasts might enjoy the Hunter Valley Wine, Gin & Food Tastings, and if you’re short on time, the Sydney Cellar Door provides a quick but quality tasting. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Sydney offers a surprising variety of wine tours that cater to different tastes and interests. From gourmet food pairing days to wildlife encounters and private boutique visits, you can tailor your experience. For a full immersion, the Full-Day Hunter Valley Wine Tour & Lunch offers a balanced mix of tastings and scenery, while the Private Highlights Tour provides exclusivity. If you’re pressed for time, the Sydney Cellar Door delivers a quick taste of Australia’s vintage wines. Whatever your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
Get ready to raise a glass and explore the flavors just a short trip from Sydney’s bustling city center. Cheers!