Napier Afternoon Winery, & Gin Tasting ( no gin Mon -Wed )

If you’re after a relaxed, insightful, and well-rounded way to explore Hawke’s Bay’s renowned wine region, this Napier Afternoon Winery & Gin Tasting Tour from Vines and Views Tours might be just what you’re looking for. With a solid 5-star rating from over 130 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience to be both enjoyable and value-packed.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic, expert-led tastings at some of the region’s top spots, including New Zealand’s oldest winery. The small group size ensures a personal vibe, while the scenic vineyard visits and delicious local treats make the experience memorable. The only thing to consider is that gin tastings are unavailable from Monday to Wednesday, so plan your trip accordingly.

This tour suits those who want a relaxed yet informative afternoon, enjoy tasting excellent wines and spirits, and appreciate friendly, knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this experience offers plenty of value with a dash of local charm.

Key Points

• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to 13 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Expert-Led Tastings: Learn the secrets of New Zealand wines from knowledgeable guides.
• Historic & Scenic Stops: Visit the iconic Mission Estate and relax in the picturesque Linden Estate vineyards.
• Comprehensive Experience: Includes both wine and gin tastings, with gourmet cheese and biscuits.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water.
• Good Value: For around $103, you gain multiple tastings, expert insights, and a well-rounded tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Napier Winery & Gin Tasting Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This four-and-a-half-hour tour feels just right for a relaxed yet engaging journey through Hawke’s Bay’s wine and spirits scene. The day starts at Mission Estate Winery, where you’ll spend approximately 45 minutes introducing you to New Zealand’s oldest winery, founded by Marist Brothers over 120 years ago. Reviewers like Geraldine and Aoife mentioned how much they appreciated the comprehensive wine tastings and the chance to learn about the history tied to the Mission House. Ross, the guide, expertly shares snippets of Napier’s history alongside the tasting, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Next, the tour transitions to the National Tobacco Company Building, now home to a popular gin distillery. Here, you’ll taste 4 to 5 gins and marvel at the Art Nouveau architecture that makes this site iconic. The reviews highlight the informative and entertaining owner-led tastings that add a personal touch and deepen your appreciation of New Zealand’s craft spirits. Keep in mind, gin tastings are unavailable Monday through Wednesday, so if gin is essential, plan accordingly.

The third stop is Askerne Vineyards, a family-run operation making about 100,000 bottles a year. With 14 different varietals, you’re bound to find something you love. The guide provides cheese and biscuits to complement the wine, which reviewers agree is a thoughtful touch. One guest called the visit “relaxed” and loved the variety of wines and the friendly atmosphere.

Finally, the tour concludes at Linden Estate, where, during the summer months, guests can enjoy wine, cheese, and biscuits amongst the vines—a perfect scene for unwinding and soaking in the scenery. This part of the tour embodies the laid-back charm that makes Hawke’s Bay so special.

Transport and Group Dynamics

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, making the journey between stops smooth and pleasant. With a maximum of 13 guests, the group size promotes interaction without feeling crowded. The tour is flexible enough for private bookings, which is ideal for special occasions or small groups wanting a tailored experience.

The Value of the Experience

For $103.06 per person, what do you get? Not just tastings, but also access to historic wineries, expert commentary, and local cheeses. The inclusion of a free tasting glass from Mission Estate adds a nice memento. Reviewers frequently mention the good value and the thoughtful touches like bottled water and the personalized service from Ross.

The Guide: Ross

A consistent highlight across reviews is Ross himself. Guests describe him as knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about the local region. He’s been on the circuit for over a decade, which means he can share nuanced stories and insights. His communication skills shine, and he makes everyone feel at home—something that’s often reflected in the glowing reviews.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Engaging, well-informed guides
• Small group setting for a more personal experience
• Beautiful vineyard scenery and historic sites
• Tasting fees included, plus complimentary cheese and biscuits
• Pickup and drop-off add convenience
• Opportunity to learn about both wine and craft spirits

Cons:

• Gin tastings not available Monday to Wednesday (but the tour still offers rich wine experiences)
• Limited to a maximum of 13 travelers, so booking early is advisable during peak times

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, educational, and authentic taste of Hawke’s Bay’s renowned vineyards. It appeals to those interested in history and local stories, as well as wine and spirit lovers wanting a well-rounded afternoon. It’s also ideal for small groups, couples, or even private celebrations — with the option for customization.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Napier or Hawke’s Bay, this tour offers a great introduction without feeling rushed. Because it includes both wine and gin, it’s especially good if you’re eager to explore the region’s craft spirit scene alongside its viticulture.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is small and can be tailored for private groups, making it flexible for special requests.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all wine and gin tasting fees are included, along with cheese and biscuits.

What if I want to do the gin tasting?
Gin tastings are available Tuesday through Sunday; they are unavailable Monday through Wednesday.

What should I eat before the tour?
It’s recommended to eat something beforehand since you’ll be tasting wines and gins throughout the afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves alcohol tastings, it’s primarily aimed at adults.

How many stops are there?
Three main stops: Mission Estate Winery, the gin distillery in the National Tobacco Building, and Askerne Vineyards. The final stop at Linden Estate is more of a scenic, relaxed experience.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 13 guests, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot through Viator, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting a thoughtfully curated afternoon of wine, spirits, and local stories, this tour offers excellent value. The expert guides, historic and scenic stops, and inclusive tastings make it stand out. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and want to learn about New Zealand’s premier wine region in a relaxed setting.

The combination of historic wineries, craft gin, and paired local cheeses makes this a well-rounded way to spend an afternoon in Hawke’s Bay. The knowledgeable guide, Ross, ensures you’ll leave with more than just a full glass — you’ll take home a deeper appreciation of the region’s viticulture and spirit-making traditions.

This tour is a perfect choice for couples, small groups, or even private celebrations seeking an authentic taste of Napier’s unique wine and gin scene. Just book early, plan your day around the availability of gin tastings, and prepare for a delightful, flavorful journey.

Enjoy your trip — and don’t forget to savor every sip.