Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch

If you’re a fan of good drinks and scenic countryside, the Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour certainly piques interest. While I haven’t personally joined this exact tour, its glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a thoughtfully curated experience for lovers of wine, craft spirits, and craft beer alike.

What we love about this tour is its balance of diverse tastings, engaging scenery, and a relaxed pace—all within a full-day format that maximizes your time without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides, like Bishoy who impresses with his communication skills, add a layer of authenticity and fun. Plus, the option to explore unique venues most visitors might not stumble upon on their own stands out as a real highlight. On the downside, some reviewers mention that the day can feel a little rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger longer at each stop.

This experience suits those interested in local wines, craft spirits, and craft beer, paired with a love for scenic drives and good company. If you’re after a full, engaging taste of Canberra’s beverage scene and enjoy guided tours with delicious food, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Diverse Venues: Visit three wineries, a distillery, and a brewery, offering a broad look at Canberra’s local drink scene.
• Inclusive Tastings & Lunch: All tasting fees, a hearty lunch, and shared cheese platters are included, providing great value.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, phone chargers, bottled water, and scenic photo stops enhance the experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Bishoy are praised for their communication and friendliness.
• Time Management: The day’s schedule packs in a lot of stops, which some find a little rushed.
• Authentic Experience: Many reviewers highlight the unique venues and the high quality of the wines and spirits.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start at Jeir Creek Wines

The day kicks off at Jeir Creek Wines, a family-run cellar with a fresh, modern look that still respects tradition. Reviewers appreciate the blend of history and innovation—noting the new label design that captures their journey from humble beginnings to a polished brand. Expect to spend around 70 minutes here, tasting wines that beautifully marry classic roots with contemporary flair. The Royal Bluebell label symbolizes their ACT connection, and many guests love that the winery combines heritage with a modern touch.

The tasting experience at Jeir Creek is educational and relaxed, giving you a sense of the local terroir and the careful craftsmanship behind each bottle. Visitors report the guide’s insights as being engaging and informative, making the experience both fun and educational.

Next stop: Eden Road Wines

Known as a 5-Star winery, Eden Road Wines offers a tasting experience that’s hard to beat. The highlight is their 2018 The Long Road Syrah, which scored a remarkable 95 points from James Halliday. This winery’s focus on varietal purity and complex blends is evident in their wines, which are grown across diverse soils and altitudes. The vineyard locations in Murrumbateman and Hilltops give each wine a distinct character, a detail many enthusiasts love.

Guests rave about the wines’ finesse and the knowledgeable staff. Reviews mention the presence of award-winning French winemaker Celine Rousseau, adding a touch of international expertise to the local scene. Expect to spend about 70 minutes here, with plenty of time to savor each pour and learn about the winemaking process.

Four Winds Vineyard for Lunch & Sights

By the time you reach Four Winds Vineyard, the focus switches to a more relaxed setting. The highlight is a pizza lunch paired with local wines, which many reviewers describe as a perfect mid-day break. The story of Scheherazade, inspired by tales of the four winds, adds a charming touch to this family-owned vineyard.

The vineyard itself is picturesque, with views that guests find both calming and photogenic. The owners’ history—beginning with a miner and his wife—adds a layer of storytelling that makes the lunch experience richer. You’ll have about 90 minutes here, where you can enjoy wine tastings, playing card games, or simply soaking in the scenery.

Ambrosia Distillery for Gin & Vodka

Next up is Ambrosia Distillery, where spirits are crafted with care and scientific precision. The owner’s background in medical science shines through in their purification and flavor infusion techniques. Guests get to taste around five gins and a vodka, often describing the spirits as high-quality and uniquely flavored.

The tasting room offers insights into the distillation process, and many visitors mention the distillery’s approachability and passion. Expect about 75 minutes here, with the chance to purchase your favorites or try some bespoke cocktails if you wish.

Wrapping up at BentSpoke Brewing Co.

The final stop is BentSpoke Brewing Co., famous for their award-winning beers like the Crankshaft, which has topped the GABS Hottest 100 twice. The atmosphere here is lively, with plenty of options to sample flagship brews and learn about their brewing process.

Many guests appreciate the casual vibe and mention the friendly staff. The tasting session lasts around 70 minutes, giving you a relaxed finish to a full day of exploration.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with phone chargers, bottled water, and snacks, making the long day comfortable. Pickup and drop-off are at convenient locations—Jolimont Tourist Centre and Abode Murrumbateman—with timings generally between 9:00 and 9:20 am.

Duration & Group Size

Spanning approximately 9 to 10 hours, the tour includes around 6 hours and 45 minutes of venue time, with the rest dedicated to travel. The group size is kept small (max 24 people), fostering a cozy, friendly atmosphere. Many reviews note the guide’s excellent communication and personable demeanor as a big plus.

Cost & Value

At around $171 per person, the tour covers all tasting fees, a full lunch, snacks, and beverages, making it quite good value considering the variety and quality of experiences included. Reviewers frequently mention the generous tastings and well-organized schedule as key reasons for feeling it’s worth the price.

Age & Accessibility

The minimum age is 24, which helps maintain a mature, relaxed vibe. The tour is accessible, with most stops suitable for most travelers.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

Many reviews highlight how guides like Bishoy make the experience special by sharing stories, answering questions, and guiding guests through the tastings. One guest mentions how they appreciated the extra attention to detail and flexibility, even suggesting additional wineries when ahead of schedule.

The scenery stops are also a highlight—many guests enjoy snapping photos of the rolling vineyards and the picturesque landscape, making the tour not just about tasting but about soaking in the environment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for wine and craft spirit enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, guided look at Canberra’s beverage scene. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, good company, and a relaxed pace. Since lunch is included, it suits travelers seeking a hassle-free day with all the essentials covered.

It’s also great for small groups or couples who want a personalized experience, as the guided approach ensures everyone feels engaged and attended to. If you’re after a full day of tasting, learning, and scenic views, this tour delivers.

FAQ

• What is the start time of the tour? The tour begins around 9:20 am, with pickup points at Jolimont Tourist Centre or Abode Murrumbateman.
• How long does the tour last? Expect a full day, approximately 9 to 10 hours, including transport and venue time.
• Are tastings included? Yes, all tasting fees for wine, spirits, and beer are included in the price.
• Is lunch included? Yes, a pizza lunch with wine pairings and shared cheese platters are part of the tour.
• Can I join with a large group? The tour is open to large groups, but maximum group size is 24 travelers.
• What is the minimum age? The minimum age for participation is 24 years old.
• Are beverages available on the bus? Yes, bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks are provided; refrigerated drinks are stored in an esky.
• Is there a recommended amount of advance booking? The tour is usually booked about 89 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
• Is the experience suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy alcohol tastings and scenic outings.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the local beverage scene, with generous tastings, scenic stops, and a friendly guide leading the way. Its value lies in the variety of venues, the quality of the tastings, and the relaxed, informative atmosphere.

Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover, a craft spirit enthusiast, or simply eager to explore Canberra’s lesser-known gems, this tour provides a satisfying and fun way to spend a day. Just be prepared for a full schedule—there’s a lot to see, taste, and enjoy. If you’re after authentic experiences in a relaxed setting, this tour definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary.

In brief, this tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided day of tasting and sightseeing with a good mix of wine, spirits, and craft beer. It’s especially perfect for small groups seeking a friendly, knowledgeable guide, and a chance to explore Canberra’s beverage scene without any fuss.