Experience the Best of Canberra’s Wine and Spirits Scene with a Tasting Tour

We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the tour’s outline, it sounds like a fantastic way to explore Canberra’s vibrant wine regions. This 8-hour small-group experience combines visits to boutique wineries, a local distillery, and tastings of wines, gins, sweets, and spirits — topped off with a relaxed lunch.

What makes this tour appealing are the personalized guided tastings, access to behind-the-scenes at some wineries, and the chance to sample local delicacies. Plus, the intimate group setting (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more relaxed and engaging experience.

A potential consideration is the itinerary’s focus on well-known wineries rather than smaller, lesser-known spots, which might be a downside if you’re looking for more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Also, the tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with open-toed shoes, emphasizing the importance of comfortable, closed shoes for safety.

This tour suits wine lovers, spirits enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed, social day with knowledgeable guides and authentic tastings. It’s perfect if you enjoy small group adventures with a touch of local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Small Group Experience: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Diverse Tastings: Includes local wines, gins, spirits, sweets, and chocolates, offering a well-rounded taste of Canberra’s regional produce.
Behind-the-Scenes Access: Select stops may include behind-the-scenes tours, adding depth to the experience.
Relaxed Lunch Option: Enjoy a casual meal paired with wine, beer, or cider, providing a break and a chance to soak in the scenery.
Knowledgeable Guides: Tour guides like Ben, Colin, and Dave receive praise for their friendliness and expertise, enriching the experience.
Convenient Departure Point: Meet at Bentspoke Brewery with straightforward instructions, making joining easy.

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Exploring Canberra’s Wine Region: A Detailed Breakdown

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Bentspoke Brewery, a lively hub in Canberra offering a perfect spot to gather, with coordinates at -35.273056, 149.131943. Expect a prompt start; check your availability and the scheduled times when booking. The 8-hour duration means you should be prepared for a full, yet comfortable day of tasting and touring.

You’ll likely travel in a small, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring plenty of space and comfort. Being part of a small group (max 10 people) means less waiting, more interaction, and the chance to ask questions directly to your guides.

Visiting Two Boutique Wineries: Shaw and Four Winds

The core of the tour is the visits to two boutique wineries. Reviewers mention Shaw and Four Winds as highlights, particularly praising the quality of wines and the opportunity for guided tastings. One reviewer appreciated a “behind-the-scenes” look, although this wasn’t available at all stops, highlighting that some experiences are subject to availability.

Expect to taste 6-8 wines across both wineries, with guides providing insights into the winemaking process and local varietals. The emphasis on boutique wineries means you’ll likely sample smaller batch, well-crafted wines, giving you a more authentic taste of the region. Some travelers expressed a preference for discovering less commercialized wineries, though the ones visited are highly regarded locally.

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Spirits, Gins, and Distillery Highlights

After the wineries, you’ll visit a local distillery — a highlight for spirits lovers. Tasting local gins and spirits provides a different perspective on the region’s craft and flavor profiles. Some reviews lauded the friendly and knowledgeable staff, like Dave, who explained the nuances of each spirit, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

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Sweet Treats and Sweets Tasting

An extra delight is the sweets and chocolates tasting, which adds a fun, indulgent element to the day. Reviewers loved sampling cupcakes and other confections at a local sweet shop, making the experience feel complete and satisfying cravings for something sweet after tasting wine and spirits.

Lunch and Relaxed Atmosphere

The included lunch offers a laid-back break amid the day’s activities. Guests can enjoy pizza, cheese, or other casual fare paired with regional wines, craft beers, or ciders. Reviewers mention the delicious lunch as a perfect way to recharge, and the casual setting allows for plenty of conversation and reflection on the day’s tastings.

Tour Highlights and Unique Insights

A standout feature, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guides like Ben and Colin. They share local stories, wine facts, and personal recommendations, making each stop more than just a tasting — it’s an education, too. One guest called Ben “so lovely and extremely knowledgeable,” which adds a warm, personal touch.

While some reviewers noted missing out on the ‘behind-the-scenes’ at the Murrumbateman winery, overall, the stops visited are praised for their authenticity and quality.

The Real Value of the Tour

Price and What You Get

Considering the full-day experience, including tastings, guided tours, lunch, and transportation, the value is generally seen as good. The small group size means you’ll get personalized attention, and the variety of stops ensures a well-rounded experience.

Why It’s Worth It

Authentic local flavors: Tasting at boutique wineries and a distillery gives you a true sense of the region’s craftsmanship.
Educational component: Guided tastings and behind-the-scenes glimpses deepen your understanding of wine and spirits.
Leisurely pace: Several reviews mention how relaxed and enjoyable the day is, avoiding rushed tours or over-crowding.
All-inclusive: Tastings, lunch, and transport are bundled into one price, making budgeting easier.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers felt the tour could include more lesser-known wineries or a longer behind-the-scenes experience. Weather may also impact certain stops, as noted with the Chocolate Factory being missed due to road washouts, which could cut short the planned schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wine and spirits enthusiasts wanting a personalized and relaxed experience in Canberra. It’s perfect if you appreciate guided tastings with knowledgeable hosts and want to enjoy local food and drink without the hassle of planning.

It also suits small groups seeking a social and intimate day out, especially if you enjoy learning about regional products in a friendly environment. However, those expecting off-the-beaten-path wineries or wanting a more adventurous behind-the-scenes might find it somewhat mainstream.

The Sum Up

This Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced, authentic taste of Canberra’s local food and drink scene. With visits to boutique wineries, a local distillery, and treats like chocolate and cupcakes, it caters to a broad range of interests. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make for a personal experience that feels both educational and relaxed.

While the focus is on well-known wineries rather than hidden gems, the quality of tastings and the inclusive atmosphere make this a worthwhile outing for wine lovers, spirits fans, and anyone looking to enjoy a day of regional flavors without stress. The lunch and guided insights add real value, making it a smart choice for those wanting a taste of Canberra’s thriving local scene.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, educational, and flavorful day with friendly guides and authentic experiences, this tour is a strong contender. It provides a great balance of relaxation, discovery, and deliciousness — perfect for making some treasured travel memories.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for this tour?
You meet at Bentspoke Brewery, with coordinates provided, making it easy to find and accessible.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, so expect a full day of tasting and sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided in a small, comfortable vehicle, with the tour focusing on a small group.

Are the tastings guided?
Yes, each stop includes a guided tasting by a local supplier, offering insights into the wines and spirits.

Can I visit lesser-known wineries?
The tour visits two boutique wineries, Shaw and Four Winds, which are highly regarded but not necessarily lesser-known.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a relaxed lunch with options like pizza, cheese, or other casual fare is part of the experience.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety, and comfortable clothing is recommended for a day on your feet.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant guests are advised against this experience because of alcohol tastings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 3 days in advance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized guides, authentic tastings, and relaxed atmosphere set this tour apart from larger, more generic wine tours.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Canberra’s burgeoning wine and spirits scene, with a friendly, intimate vibe and plenty of delicious highlights. It’s perfect for those wanting to savor regional flavors at a leisurely pace, with plenty of insights and a warm, personal touch.

From Canberra: Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch