Kangaroo Island isn’t just about rugged coastlines and abundant wildlife; it’s also a place where wine lovers can indulge in some truly memorable tastings. What makes the island stand out is its combination of small-batch vineyards producing French-style and cool climate wines, alongside local spirits and unique food pairings. The Kangaroo Island Premium Wine Tasting Tour by Happy to Visit offers a comprehensive full-day experience that combines wine tasting with visits to farms, oyster farms, and even a lavender field. Its detailed itinerary, personal touch, and top ratings make it a highlight for those wanting an in-depth adventure into KI’s culinary scene.
If you prefer a shorter, more intimate experience, the Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour emphasizes local produce, spirits, and boutique wines in a relaxed setting, perfect for travelers wanting a taste without a full day’s commitment. For cruise passengers or those with limited time, the Dudley Wines & False Cape Wine Tour offers a quick but scenic exploration of two picturesque wineries, paired with a relaxed lunch. Lastly, the Small Group Kangaroo Island Wine Tour combines visits to five wineries with stunning views, making it ideal for those who want to explore KI’s wine scene thoroughly.
1. Kangaroo Island Premium Wine Tasting Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Kangaroo Island Premium Wine Tasting Tour, a full-day adventure that offers an in-depth look at KI’s renowned wineries and local food producers. For about $472 per person, you get roughly 8 hours of small-group exploration, guided by a foodie with expert insights into the island’s culinary scene. The tour includes visits to four standout wineries: Dudley Wines, False Cape Wines, Bay of Shoals Winery, and The Islander Estate Vineyards. Each offers a chance to taste exceptional wines, such as Bordeaux-style reds and French-inspired cool climate whites.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local food and spirits as well. Stops include a lavender farm, sheep dairy, and oyster farm—each adding a different flavor to the day. A gourmet lunch complements the tastings, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. Reviewers praise guide Lutz for his knowledge and accommodating style, although some mention minor itinerary adjustments. This tour is perfect for serious wine lovers eager to learn and savor KI’s finest vintages in a luxurious setting.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, high-quality experience that balances wine, local food, and scenic landscapes—ideal for those looking to dive deep into KI’s culinary offerings.
2. Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour
At number 2 is the Small Group Kangaroo Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour, a 6-hour experience designed for those wanting an intimate look at KI’s food scene. Priced at around $265, this tour caps at just six travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The tour features visits to Clifford’s Honey Farm, Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery, and Kangaroo Island Spirits, with a highlight being the lunch at Cactus Café in Kingscote.
What makes this tour special is its focus on artisan producers—from honey and eucalyptus oil to spirits and locally-made liqueurs. The inclusion of award-winning wines and gins gives it a boutique feel, and the flexibility of being able to drop off at your accommodation or the ferry terminal is a bonus. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you get a genuine taste of KI’s craftsmanship, and reviews emphasize the small group size as a major plus for conversation and comfort.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a rich tasting of KI’s food and drink, ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at local producers without a long day on the road.
3. CRUISE SHIP Dudley Wines & False Cape Wine Tour
For cruise passengers or those with limited time, the Dudley Wines & False Cape Wine Tour offers a quick yet scenic 2-hour 15-minute trip. This tour is priced at about $202 per person and focuses on two top wineries—False Cape Wines and Dudley Wines—both boasting spectacular views and distinctive wines.
Although shorter, this experience includes guided tastings with insights into the wineries’ histories, paired with lunch options. It’s perfect if you’re docked on KI and want a taste of local wines without committing to a full day. It’s well-suited for cruise guests looking for a peaceful break from their busy schedule, offering a chance to enjoy KI’s landscape along with some quality wine tasting.
Review-wise, there are no ratings yet, but the simplicity and scenic setting make it a good pick for those prioritizing ease and scenery. It’s a straightforward option, offering a slice of KI’s wine culture in a condensed format.
Bottom Line: A convenient, scenic option for travelers short on time who still want to enjoy KI wines and landscapes.
$202.40 per person
4. Small Group Small Group Kangaroo Island Wine Tour
At position four, the Small Group Kangaroo Island Wine Tour offers a 7-hour exploration of five local wineries. For about $263, you’ll visit Dudley Wines, False Cape Wines, The Islander Estate Vineyards, and the Bay of Shoals Winery. The tour emphasizes learning about each winery’s history and tasting a range of wines, including the island’s only 5-star James Halliday rated wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach and the opportunity to enjoy views across Backstairs Passage and across vineyards, forests, and sheltered bays. The small-group size ensures an intimate experience, and the inclusion of coffee breaks and tastings keeps the pace relaxed. Guests have appreciated the detailed attention from guides and the chance to explore KI’s diverse wine styles.
This tour suits travelers who want to sample more wines and learn about the local winemaking culture in depth. It’s a good value considering five wineries are included, and the scenic drives add to the experience.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an extensive wine-tasting day with a focus on learning and scenic views, this tour hits the mark.
$263.12 per person
How to Choose the Best Kangaroo Island Wine Tour for You
When selecting a wine tour on KI, consider your budget, time, and interests. The full-day Premium Wine Tasting Tour is ideal if you’re passionate about wine and local food, while the Small Group Gourmet Food Tour offers a more intimate, relaxed experience. If you’re on a cruise or short on time, the Dudley Wines & False Cape Wine Tour provides a quick taste, and the Small Group Wine Tour is best for those wanting to explore multiple wineries in depth.
Think about whether you prefer full-day immersion or a quick scenic visit, and whether you’re more interested in premium wines, local spirits, or food pairings. Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours, as KI’s limited capacity makes these experiences somewhat exclusive.
Kangaroo Island’s wine scene offers a wonderful blend of boutique wineries, scenic landscapes, and local produce. Whether you want a luxurious full-day tour or a short, scenic tasting, the options above are your best bets for experiencing KI’s wine culture. For a deeper dive into the island’s flavors, any of these tours will leave you with great memories—and excellent bottles to bring home.