Queenstown’s Gin & Spirits Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to explore Queenstown beyond the adrenaline rushes and stunning landscapes, a gin and spirits tasting tour might just be your perfect escape. This curated experience offers more than just tasting; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship, enjoying spectacular scenery, and soaking up local flavors in a relaxed setting. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries give us a clear picture of what to expect—an engaging, well-organized, and value-packed journey.

Three aspects stand out that make this tour worth considering: the educational stops at local distilleries, the scenic drives with breathtaking views, and the high-quality tastings that are complemented by shared platters and a welcoming atmosphere. One thing to keep in mind is that this is an afternoon experience, so planning your day around it is smart—perhaps with a light breakfast or lunch beforehand, as lunch isn’t included. Overall, it appeals most to those who enjoy good drinks, scenic drives, and learning about local craftsmanship in a friendly group setting.

Key Points

• Educational and flavorful experience across three distilleries
• Beautiful scenic drives through the Crown Range with sweeping views
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and air conditioning
• Well-balanced tasting sessions with shared platters and non-gin options
• Small group size for a personalized feel
• Flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind

An Honest Breakdown of the Queenstown Gin & Spirits Tour

This six-hour tour is designed to give visitors a well-rounded experience of Queenstown’s emerging craft spirits scene, combined with some of the most scenic views the region has to offer. It’s a thoughtfully organized day, suitable for those who love gin, good company, and a bit of sightseeing.

Pickup, Transport & Atmosphere

Starting around 12:30 pm, the journey begins with a hotel pickup option, which makes things smooth and hassle-free. The group travels in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, making the ride comfortable and connectable—perfect for sharing photos or checking emails if you’re into that. Limiting the group to a maximum of 14 people, the experience maintains an intimate, friendly vibe that’s perfect for conversations and questions.

The Scenic Drive: Crown Range to Cardrona

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive up through the Crown Range, giving travelers their first taste of Queenstown’s stunning landscapes. Expect sweeping vistas of the Gibbston Region and the surrounding mountains—a perfect backdrop for a day of tasting and learning. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated this part, with one noting the “beautiful views” as a highlight of the day, making the whole experience more memorable.

Cardrona Distillery: The Educational Highlight

Our first stop is at The Cardrona Distillery, a place where the focus is on understanding the art of gin-making. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a gin & tonic, setting the tone for a relaxed, friendly visit. The distillery staff then guides the group through a tour of the production process, sharing insights into the distillation, ingredients, and craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Reviewers like Edward_M praised guide Lilly for her friendly and knowledgeable manner, which added a lot to the experience. He mentioned enjoying the “excellent gins” and the stunning views, highlighting how this stop offers a blend of education and scenery. It’s clear that the Cardrona Distillery prides itself on both quality and storytelling, making it a fascinating start.

What to Expect:

• A guided tour of the distillery
• Tasting of their signature gins
• An opportunity to learn about gin production and ingredients
• Enjoyment of the scenic backdrop during the visit

Arrowtown & The Winery: A Taste of History and Craft

Next, the tour heads into Arrowtown, a charming historic gold-mining village. Here, you’ll visit The Winery, which specializes in New Zealand gins. The tasting experience involves sampling three different gins accompanied by tonic or soda, served alongside shared cheese platters packed with Whitestone cheeses.

This stop is appreciated by guests for providing a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. One reviewer called it “very worthwhile,” emphasizing the quality of both the gins and the shared cheese platters. The pairing of carefully curated cheeses with spirits adds a sophisticated yet approachable touch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of gourmet indulgence.

What to Expect:

• Sampling three NZ gins with mixers
• Delicious cheese platters
• A chance to chat about the local craft scene
• A historic, picturesque setting that invites photos and leisure

Arthurs Point & The Gin Garden: The Final Tasting

The last stop is at the Gin Garden by Broken Heart Spirits in Arthurs Point. Here, you’ll sit down for a hosted tasting session that dives into the history of the brand and the flavors of multiple gins. This relaxed environment allows for questions, deeper learning, and appreciation of the nuanced flavors.

Reviewers have highlighted how engaging the guide is, with one describing the experience as “learning the history behind the brand and the flavors,” which adds depth to the tasting. It’s a fitting finale, combining educational elements with the enjoyment of sampling.

Additional Tasting Options:

• Gin tasting with a focus on flavor profiles
• An option for non-gin drinkers to participate in alternative tastings
• Some guests also enjoy a Gin & Tonic cocktail, included in the package

What’s Included & What’s Not?

You get three distinct spirit tastings, each at different locations, along with shared platters, a Gin & Tonic, and WiFi-enabled transport. The tour is especially designed to cater to non-gin drinkers as well, offering alternative options—something many reviewers appreciated.

However, lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly. The tour ends around 6 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore further or enjoy dinner in Queenstown itself.

How About the Value?

Priced at $151.85 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the three comprehensive tastings, guided insights, scenic drive, and included food. Each stop provides a different perspective on New Zealand’s craft spirits, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an educational journey.

Guests like Edward_M praised the good value for money, and the small group size means more personal attention from guides like Lilly. The inclusion of WiFi and air conditioning also ensures comfort during the journey.

Who Will Love This Tour?

• Gin enthusiasts seeking to learn more about local distilleries and flavors
• Travelers wanting a scenic, educational outing beyond typical sightseeing
• Those who prefer small-group experiences for a more personalized feel
• Visitors looking for a relaxed, fun afternoon with good food and drink
• People interested in local culture and craftsmanship

What to Keep in Mind

• Since lunch isn’t included, you might want to eat before or bring snacks
• The tour is mainly geared toward adults (min age 18)
• Be prepared for the potential cancellation if minimum numbers aren’t met or if weather conditions are poor
• If you’re not a gin drinker, ask about the alternative options—guides are accommodating

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

What is the tour duration?
Approximately 6 hours, starting at 12:30 pm and ending around 6 pm.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, select hotels in Queenstown offer pickup for convenience.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. The tour offers options for non-gin drinkers, so everyone can enjoy the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or NZ driver’s license for age verification. Comfortable clothing and perhaps a camera for the scenic views.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s designed for adults 18 and over, mainly because of the alcohol tastings.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people typically participate?
A maximum of 14 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere.

What if I want to extend the experience?
There’s an optional upgrade to the Helicopter Gin Tour, combining a scenic helicopter flight with a special gin tasting.

Are meals included?
No, but shared platters and snacks are provided during the tastings.

This Queenstown Gin & Spirits Tasting Tour offers a rich blend of local craftsmanship, scenic beauty, and relaxed socializing. It’s ideal for those who want to explore New Zealand’s emerging gin scene in a friendly, intimate setting. The combination of educational tours, beautiful vistas, and quality tastings makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone interested in spirits or seeking a memorable, laid-back day in Queenstown.

If you’re a fan of gin or curious about local distilleries, this tour strikes a good balance of affordability, authenticity, and enjoyment—making it a smart addition to your Queenstown itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or just want a fun afternoon with friends, this experience offers genuine insights, beautiful scenery, and a taste of New Zealand’s craft spirit culture—all wrapped in a small-group vibe that ensures you’re well looked after.