Queenstown: Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re dreaming of sipping world-class wines while soaking in stunning landscapes, the Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour is a compelling option. Offered by Altitude Tours, this six-hour journey promises a blend of scenic views, insider stories, and a generous pour of local wines. From underground wine caves to boutique cellar doors, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines education with leisurely indulgence.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size ensures a personalized experience, often noted for guides like Shanay or Holly, who go above and beyond to entertain and inform. Second, the visit to New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave at Gibbston Valley offers a unique, memorable highlight. Third, sampling over 18 wines including award-winning Pinot Noirs means plenty of variety to satisfy even the most discerning wine lovers.

A potential consideration is that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or guests under 18, so it’s primarily tailored for adults. Also, the cost of $134 per person is quite reasonable given the number of tastings, but if you’re particularly hungry or want a full meal, you’ll want to plan for extra on-site food costs. This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups seeking an authentic Otago experience with a dash of scenic beauty.

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Key Points

Intimate Experience: Small group size limits to 14 participants, allowing plenty of personal attention.
Unique Locations: Visit New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave, along with boutique cellar doors.
Extensive Tasting: Over 18 wines sampled, including top Otago Pinot Noir and single-label wines.
Comfort & Tech: Travel in a premium Mercedes van with WiFi and Spotify for entertainment.
Flexible Options: End the day with a drop-off near your accommodation or enjoy more of Queenstown.
Educational & Fun: Guides like Shanay or Holly share insights, stories, and tips, making it both informative and enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour

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The Itinerary: From Cave to Cellar and Beyond

The day begins with your pick-up from central Queenstown, typically around 10 a.m., in a luxurious Mercedes van equipped with WiFi, Spotify, and plush leather seats. The comfort factor here is immediately apparent, especially after a long drive or early start.

Your first stop is the Gibbston Valley Winery, famed for its underground wine cave—widely regarded as New Zealand’s largest. This cave isn’t just a cool photo op; it’s an area where you’ll witness the scale and craftsmanship of Otago’s most famous winery. An exclusive tour inside the cave reveals the cellar’s expansive chambers, and you’ll taste their celebrated wines in this atmospheric setting. Guests often mention the sense of wonder when walking through the cool, dimly lit underground space, which adds a special layer to the tasting.

From here, the journey continues to Kinross, a highly flexible tasting spot that showcases wines from five different wine-makers. This variety means you’ll get a broad taste of the region’s diversity, from reds to whites, with entertaining hosts who share insights that go beyond the typical tasting room chatter. Expect to learn about the region’s long-standing winemaking history and the distinct characteristics of each producer.

Lunch is scheduled at Kinross, and while the tour doesn’t include a meal, the menu options are varied and appealing. Guests can order off the menu, with many reviews praising the quality of the food, describing it as a good complement to the wine tastings. Note that the cost of lunch is separate, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

Post-lunch, the tour visits Mt Rosa Wines, an owner-operator winery that excels at producing single-label wines. These wines are described as hard to source around NZ and globally, adding an element of exclusivity to your tasting experience. The room itself is beautifully designed, often described as cozy yet elegant, perfect for savoring their carefully curated wines.

Finally, the tour concludes at The Church Tasting Room, a charming venue housed in a refurbished church, with sweeping grounds that make for beautiful photos. Here, you’ll taste Mt Edward Wines, which are known for their quality and distinctiveness.

The Guides: Knowledge, Personality, and Hospitality

Guests consistently praise the guides, with many mentioning guides like Shanay, Holly, Alana, and Anna. Reviewers appreciate how well they manage the group, balancing education with entertainment. Shanay, for example, was noted for her “terrific insights about the region and each vineyard”, making the experience more meaningful.

The guides’ approachability and knowledge are often cited as key highlights—whether they’re sharing winemaking stories or explaining tasting techniques, they make even novice wine drinkers feel at home. They’re also attentive, ensuring everyone’s comfort and addressing individual needs.

The Transport: Style and Comfort

Travel in style in a luxury Mercedes van, which reviewers frequently mention as a highlight. The onboard WiFi and Spotify playlists make the long drives enjoyable, especially if you’re sharing the experience with friends or a small group of fellow wine lovers. The vehicle’s spacious interior is a big plus, providing a relaxed atmosphere.

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The Wine: Quality and Variety

Sampling 18+ wines at four different wineries ensures a generous experience. Reviewers consistently mention the award-winning Pinot Noir from Otago, which is a region renowned for its reds. Guests often highlight the generous pours and the opportunity to learn how to taste wine properly—many say they left with a better understanding of wine characteristics.

The underground cave at Gibbston Valley is a standout feature. It’s not just about the cool factor but also tasting wines in a setting that’s as unique as the region itself. The cellar hosts some of the best wines in New Zealand, and being able to sample them in this atmospheric environment is considered a real privilege.

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Lunch and Additional Costs

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the variety and quality of food available at Kinross are well received. Guests can expect a good range of options, and many reviews note that the food complements the wines nicely. Remember, this is an optional expense, so budget accordingly if you plan to dine during the tour.

End of Tour and Flexibility

You can choose to be dropped back near your accommodations or spend your afternoon in Queenstown. Many guests opt to extend their day exploring the town, enjoying its vibrant cafes, lakeside views, and lively atmosphere.

Why This Tour Is a Smart Choice

This Queenstown wine tour offers a combination of education, scenic beauty, and indulgence that appeals to a broad range of travelers. The small group size guarantees intimacy, allowing for more interaction with guides and fellow guests—something many reviews rave about. The diverse locations and unique underground cave experience set it apart from more generic wine tours.

The value for money is evident when considering the number of tastings and the quality of venues visited. The luxury transport and onboard amenities elevate the overall experience, making it more comfortable than hopping between wineries on your own.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about wine as much as tasting it, and for couples or groups seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out. If you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, you’ll find this tour accommodating and insightful.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 6 hours, starting around 10 a.m. and finishing around 4 p.m., including travel and tastings.

What is included in the price?
You get over 18 wine tastings across four wineries, a visit to New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave, a knowledgeable guide, and transport in a luxury Mercedes van with WiFi and Spotify.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased separately at Kinross, which offers a varied menu suitable for different tastes.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women or guests under 18, as it involves wine tastings.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, cash for optional purchases, and comfortable clothing. The tour provides a fun, relaxed environment, but it’s best to dress for the weather.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, the tour requires at least 3 guests to operate. If the minimum isn’t met, you may be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour by Altitude Tours stands out for its personalized approach, stellar venues, and the chance to indulge in some of Otago’s finest wines in a relaxed setting. The underground wine cave experience adds a special touch, making it a memorable highlight for any wine lover.

This tour offers great value, especially considering the quality and variety of tastings. The comfortable, stylish transport and expert guides make all the difference, turning a simple wine tasting into a true Kiwi adventure.

If you’re craving a scenic, educational, and delicious experience that showcases the best of Otago’s wine scene, this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to explore New Zealand’s renowned Pinot Noir and more in a friendly, intimate setting.

In summary, the Queenstown Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience with premium wines, stunning sights, and top-notch guides. It balances fun and learning beautifully, making it a must-do for wine enthusiasts visiting Queenstown.