Charleston is a city where history, hospitality, and a love of good food and drink come together beautifully. Its proximity to lush lowcountry landscapes and historic sites makes it an ideal base for exploring local wines, teas, and culinary traditions. Among the many ways to sample this rich scene, wine tours stand out—offering a chance to enjoy regional flavors, learn about local producers, and see some of the area’s most iconic sights. We particularly like tours that combine small-group intimacy with authentic experiences, such as visiting the Charleston Tea Garden or tasting wines at the Deep Water Vineyard. These tours not only highlight the region’s terroir but also give you insights into Charleston’s unique character.
One standout experience is the Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class. It mixes historic walking, culinary storytelling, and a hands-on cooking demo by a local chef, making it a truly immersive taste of Charleston’s Lowcountry culture. This tour is perfect for those wanting a rich, multi-sensory experience that combines history, food, and wine in one package.
Quick Overview
Our list focuses on a variety of wine-related tours in Charleston, ranging from half-day explorations to full-day excursions on Wadmalaw Island. Some tours highlight local wineries and tea plantations, emphasizing agricultural and historic significance, while others focus on themed experiences like women’s history or art and wine pairing. For those interested in scenic island visits and small-group intimacy, options like the Wine Sippin’-Tea Drinkin’-Tree Huggin’ Lowcountry Sightseeing stand out. Budget-conscious travelers can find options like the Women and Wine Tour, which combines history and lively local bars at a very accessible price point. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class
This half-day tour offers a perfect blend of history, culinary arts, and wine. Starting with a 1.5-hour historical walking tour with a certified chef-guide, you’ll explore Charleston’s French Quarter and historic district, learning about Lowcountry food influences. Then, Chef Forrest Parker demonstrates his cooking techniques, culminating in a lunch paired with wine. This tour’s interactive element—getting recipes to take home—adds value for those who want to recreate Charleston’s flavors later.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch of a local chef with 25 years of experience, and the combination of walking, cooking, and tasting. The reviews are glowing, praising Forrest’s knowledge and entertaining style, plus the delicious meal. At $250 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but offers a rich, memorable experience for foodies and history lovers alike. Best suited for those who want an all-in-one cultural and culinary day.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers seeking an engaging, educational, and tasty way to explore Charleston’s history and cuisine.
2. Wine Sippin’-Tea Drinkin’-Tree Huggin’ Lowcountry Sightseeing
Spending a day outside Charleston? This small-group tour takes you to Wadmalaw Island, where you’ll encounter the majestic Angel Oak—one of the country’s oldest trees—and visit the Charleston Tea Garden, the only tea plantation in North America. The highlight is the wine tasting at Deep Water Vineyard, where you can sample locally grown wines and stroll through rolling vineyard hills.
This tour is notable for its well-versed local guide, who shares stories about the area’s ecology and history. The tour includes unlimited tea tastings and a trolley ride at the tea farm, making it more than just a wine trip—it’s a comprehensive Lowcountry experience. At 5.5 hours for about $131, it offers excellent value, especially with the personalized small-group setting. Reviewers love the informative nature and fun atmosphere, often citing the guide’s enthusiasm.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a laid-back day exploring natural beauty, tea, and wine, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
3. Charleston: Wadmalaw Island Wine Tasting and Tea Garden Trip
Combining wine tasting and scenic sights, this full-day trip covers Wadmalaw Island’s top attractions. Starting with the Angel Oak Tree, the tour proceeds to the Charleston Tea Garden for an insightful factory tour and tea tasting. The final stop is Deep Water Vineyard, where you enjoy a wine tasting amid serene vineyard views.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local production—the wines are grown, harvested, and bottled onsite—and the expert commentary provided. It’s perfect for those interested in both agriculture and history. At $149, it’s quite reasonable given the depth of experience. Reviewers mention that the small-group atmosphere enhances the experience, and many appreciate the informative guides.
Bottom Line: A great pick for wine enthusiasts and curious explorers who want a comprehensive look at Wadmalaw Island’s agricultural treasures.
4. Charleston Women and Wine Tour
This short, two-hour tour combines the story of influential women in Charleston with visits to historic sites and bars. Led by local guides Gia and Capt. Bryan, it highlights women who changed the city politically, socially, and economically. You’ll pass iconic landmarks like St. Philip’s Church and the Heyward-Washington House, learning about some of Charleston’s remarkable women.
The tour includes stops at two historic bars, where you can purchase wines, beers, or cocktails made by female entrepreneurs. Reviewers praise Gia’s engaging storytelling and the interesting mix of history and local culture. It’s priced at just $34, making it a budget-friendly cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those interested in women’s stories and local libations in a lively, social setting.
5. Charleston: Women and Wine Tour
This two-hour tour is similar in concept but offers a more in-depth focus on women’s contributions paired with visits to two historic bars. Guided by licensed local historians, you’ll learn the stories of women who shaped Charleston’s social and political landscape. The stops include discussing notable figures as you pass by important sites, with opportunities to enjoy a drink during the stops.
While smaller in scope, it’s ideal for history enthusiasts and those eager to understand Charleston’s female-led influence. Costing only $34, it’s an affordable, informative outing that works well for short visits or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history and culture fans wanting a focused, engaging experience on women’s impact in Charleston.
6. Tea Plantation and Winery Tour in Charleston
For those who love both wine and tea, this five-hour tour combines visits to America’s only tea plantation and a local winery. The trip kicks off with a photo at the Angel Oak Tree and continues with a detailed tour of the Charleston Tea Plantation, led by founder Bill Hall. You’ll learn how tea leaves are grown and processed, then enjoy unlimited hot and cold tea.
The final stop is Deep Water Vineyard, where you can sample local wines and walk through the vineyard fields. The tour is praised for its informative guides, who share insider details about tea and wine production. At $135, it offers good value for a comprehensive, sensory-rich experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies and beverage lovers who want an educational journey into tea and wine making outside Charleston.
$135.00 per person
7. Charleston Champagne Figure Drawing Experience with Male Model
Looking for something completely different? This art and bubbly experience combines beginner-friendly figure drawing with champagne and a live male model. No art skills required—just a sense of humor and a desire to try something playful and memorable. It’s perfect for celebrations like bachelorette parties or birthdays.
At $890 for a group of up to 10, this private session is more of an experience than a traditional tour. It offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere where you’ll sketch, sip, and laugh in a laid-back setting. While it’s pricier, it’s a unique way to celebrate in Charleston.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups seeking a lively, unconventional activity—definitely a memorable way to mark a special occasion.
$890.00 per group (up to 10)
How to Choose the Best Charleston Wine Tour for You
When selecting the right tour, think about your interests and schedule. If you love culinary experiences combined with history, the Undiscovered Charleston: Half Day Food, Wine & History Tour with Cooking Class offers a full sensory immersion. For scenic island adventures and local wine tastings, the Wadmalaw Island tours are hard to beat, especially if you want to escape the city. Budget travelers may prefer the Women and Wine Tour, which provides a rich cultural experience at a modest price.
Practical tips include booking early, especially for popular tours like the Tea Plantation, and considering your fitness level. Tours involving walking, outdoor exploration, or tastings outdoors require a bit of stamina, so dress accordingly. The best time to go is spring or fall, when Charleston’s weather is milder and more conducive to outdoor activities.
Final Thoughts
Charleston offers a diverse range of wine-related experiences that suit many interests and budgets. Whether you prefer a comprehensive half-day tour combining food, history, and wine, or a scenic island trip with tastings, there’s something perfect waiting for you. For a fun and engaging activity, the Wine Sippin’-Tea Drinkin’-Tree Huggin’ tour provides a memorable day outside the city, while the Undiscovered Charleston cooking and wine experience offers a deeper dive into food and history.
Remember to book early, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date—these tours are popular for good reason. Whatever your taste, Charleston’s rich culinary and wine scene is ready to welcome you with open arms and plenty of sips.