Top Rated Afternoon Wine & Beer Tour & Platters Included

Queenstown’s Top Afternoon Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Platters Included

If you’re looking to explore the Gibbston wine region or sample craft beers without the worry of driving afterward, this small-group tour might just be your ideal choice. At just over four hours, for around $134 per person, you’ll visit three highlights—a historic tavern, a boutique winery with multiple producers, and a local brewery—each offering tastings and a chance to relax with shared antipasto platters at the final stop. Hosted by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this experience boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from 340 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it.

Two things we particularly like? First, the flexibility to choose between wine or beer tastings at each stop—a thoughtful touch that caters to different tastes. Second, the small-group format ensures a more personalized, engaging experience, with guides like Ash, Dan, or Kevin making everyone feel like a friend rather than just a tourist.

One aspect to consider is the limited group size (max 14 travelers), which makes it a cozy, social experience but also means booking early is wise. Travelers who enjoy local flavors, scenic drives, and authentic conversations will find this tour especially appealing. It’s a great fit for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed, informative outing with plenty of tastings.

Key Points

• Flexible tasting options allow you to choose between wine or beer at each stop.
• Small-group setting creates a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Includes shared antipasto platters at the final location, offering a tasty break.
• Expert guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off from central Queenstown simplifies logistics.
• The 4-hour duration balances enough time for tasting without feeling rushed.

A Close Look at the Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour offers a well-organized way to explore the Gibbston region—famous for its wineries and growing craft beer scene—without the hassle of navigating or worrying about transport. Starting from 43 Camp Street, the group is picked up and taken on a scenic drive that sets the tone for the afternoon. The small size (up to 14 travelers) guarantees more interaction with guides and fellow tasters, making it easy to ask questions or swap stories.

Throughout the journey, your guide will share insights into the local history and cultural drinking traditions, enriching the tasting experience. The tour includes visits to three locations, each with dedicated tasting time and a chance to learn about the production process and regional specialties.

First Stop: GT Tasting Room at Gibbston Tavern

Your adventure begins at the GT Tasting Room, housed in a historic setting. Here, you can choose to sample local wines or craft beers, giving you an immediate taste of the region’s offerings. The ambiance is casual yet charming, and the admission is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Expect about 45 minutes here, enough for a couple of tastings and some photos of the historic tavern.

Second Stop: Kinross Winery & Boutique Producers

Next, a short drive takes you deeper into the region to Kinross Winery, which also features a cellar door and cottages. Here, you’ll enjoy a hosted tasting with five different producers, including Kinross’s own wines and those from four boutique partners. This variety allows you to appreciate different styles and flavor profiles, often a highlight for those wanting to expand their palate.

Guests frequently mention the informative guides and the diverse tasting lineup, which exposes you to wines you might not encounter elsewhere. One reviewer said, “The wineries were great but I think our favorite place was the first tavern,” illustrating that each stop has its own charm and appeal.

Final Stop: Canyon Brewing in Arthurs Point

The last visit is to Canyon Brewing, just 25 minutes from Queenstown. Here, you can sit back and relax with a tasting flight of locally produced craft beers. The setting is perfect for socializing, and many reviews praise the friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. It’s a fitting end to the tour, with plenty of time to chat with your group and reflect on the afternoon.

The Shared Platters & The Social Element

At the final stop, shared antipasto platters are included, offering a delicious way to soak up the tastings and chat about what you liked best. Guests have raved about the yummy charcuterie, highlighting how this small touch elevates the experience.

Transportation and Logistics

The included transfer from central Queenstown makes this tour especially convenient, removing the need to worry about driving or arranging taxis. It also keeps the group intimate, fostering a more engaging environment. The mobile ticket system ensures a smooth check-in process, and the tour operates rain or shine, which is useful given the unpredictable New Zealand weather.

Why This Tour Works Well

Based on reviews, many travelers highlight the friendly guides—like Shanay, Ash, Kevin, or Dan—whose knowledge, humor, and attentiveness turn a simple tasting into a memorable outing. The small-group setting makes conversations easier and ensures everyone gets personalized attention, which explains the consistently high ratings.

People also love the diversity of tastings and the local atmosphere, which feels authentic rather than overly commercialized. The scenic drive, coupled with the chance to explore multiple wineries and breweries, offers good value, especially considering the included platters and tastings.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main consideration is that the tour requires minimum numbers to operate—if not enough people sign up, it might be canceled, which could be disappointing if you’ve planned around it. The approximate 4-hour duration is ideal for a relaxed afternoon, but if you’re on a tight schedule, you’ll want to account for travel and tasting time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine and beer lovers who appreciate good company and authentic flavors. It suits those who want a relaxed, social environment with knowledgeable guides, and travelers who prefer small groups for a more personal connection. It’s also ideal if you’re seeking a convenient way to explore the Gibbston region without the hassle of self-driving.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you’re looking for a full-day or gourmet-focused experience, this tour might feel a little light on for you. Similarly, if your schedule doesn’t allow for the afternoon timeframe, or if you prefer larger groups to meet more strangers, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This Queenstown afternoon wine & craft beer tour offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to the region’s best local drinks. For around $134, you’re getting multiple tastings, shared platters, and insight from guides praised for their warmth and knowledge. The small-group vibe makes it feel intimate and special, perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to connect with local flavors in a relaxed setting.

The scenic drive, combined with the variety of stops—from historic taverns to boutique wineries and craft breweries—means you’ll leave with a broader appreciation of Queenstown’s drink scene. The included transport and flexible tasting options add to the overall value, making it a smart choice for those wanting a taste of the local in a fun, social environment.

If you enjoy engaging guides, good company, and authentic local flavors, this tour will fit the bill. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with sampling, without the pressure of big groups or rigid schedules.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from central Queenstown, making it easy to join without worrying about driving.

Can I choose between wine and beer at each stop?
Absolutely. The tour offers the option to select either local wines or craft beers at each of the three locations, catering to different tastes.

How long is the tour?
The whole experience lasts about 4 hours, providing ample time for tastings, socializing, and enjoying the scenery.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers tastings at three locations, shared antipasto platters at the final stop, and transport from Queenstown.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a cozy, engaging atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers over 18 can participate. It’s especially good for those who enjoy relaxing, social outings with a focus on local drinks and scenery.

What happens if the minimum number of participants isn’t met?
The tour might be canceled, in which case you would be offered an alternative date or a full refund. It’s always best to book early to secure your spot.

In all, this Queenstown afternoon wine and beer tour offers a fantastic way to taste the region’s best without the fuss, making it a highly recommended addition to any itinerary.