Nelson: Marlborough Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch

If you’re heading to New Zealand’s South Island and have a soft spot for good wine, this Marlborough wine tour from Nelson might just be your perfect day out. It promises a well-rounded experience, combining scenic drives, boutique wineries, and a leisurely vineyard lunch—all while exploring one of the world’s most acclaimed wine regions.

Three things we love about this tour: First, the chance to taste world-class wines from sauvignon blanc to pinot noir—Marlborough’s signature varietals. Second, discovering hidden gems and boutique wineries that aren’t often on the beaten path. Third, a delicious vineyard lunch with stunning views that enhances the entire experience.

A potential consideration? The tour’s 8.5-hour duration means it’s a full day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long outings. Also, if you’re a wine collector or planning to buy bottles, you’ll need to arrange shipping separately.

This experience suits wine enthusiasts eager to explore Marlborough’s terroir and enjoy a relaxed, authentic day among grapevines. It’s also great for couples, small groups, or those wanting a guided taste of New Zealand’s premier wine country without the hassle of planning.

Comprehensive Experience: Combines scenic drive, winery visits, tastings, and lunch.
Authentic Taste of Marlborough: Focus on boutique wineries and hidden gems.
Expert Guides: Learn winemaking secrets from passionate locals.
Excellent Value: For $275, you get tastings, lunch, transportation, and expert insights.
Scenic and Educational: Enjoy views of the Richmond Ranges and Marlborough landscapes.
Small Groups & Accessibility: Suitable for private or small groups, including wheelchair users.

Starting from Nelson, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive across the Richmond Ranges. This initial leg sets the tone—expect sweeping views and a chance to appreciate the South Island’s rugged beauty. As you head toward Marlborough, the landscape transitions into expansive vineyards and rolling hills, revealing why this region is considered a winemaking paradise.

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The Scenic Drive and Pelorus River Stop

The journey’s first highlight is the drive itself, which offers picture-perfect vistas. Many guests mention the tranquility of Pelorus River, where you can opt for a gentle stroll. This optional stop allows travelers to stretch their legs amid nature, soak in the clean air, and capture lovely photos of the river and surrounding greenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Boutique Wineries

The core of the tour is the visit to four wineries, each selected based on availability and opening hours. The wineries are described as boutique, meaning you’ll experience a more personalized, intimate tasting compared to larger commercial wineries. Guests consistently mention the passion of the guides and winery owners, who are eager to share their craft and stories.

We loved the way the guides explained the specific terroir—how Marlborough’s climate and soil produce such distinctive wines. As one reviewer noted, “The winemakers seemed genuinely proud and eager to teach us about what makes their wines unique.”

Ready for another glass? Here are more wine experiences we've reviewed in Marlborough New Zealand

Tastings of Marlborough’s Signature Wines

Expect a diverse range of tastings, from crisp sauvignon blanc—Marlborough’s signature—to elegant pinot noir. The region’s climate and fertile soil are often credited for the region’s consistent quality. The guides do a great job of explaining the wine-making process, helping you understand what to look for in each glass.

Guests who are familiar with New Zealand wines often appreciate how the tour introduces lesser-known varieties or boutique labels. Several reviewers mentioned that tasting local wines in their native environment added a whole new dimension to their appreciation.

The Vineyard Lunch & Scenic Views

A highlight for many is the vineyard lunch, served at one of the region’s picturesque wineries. The seating offers breathtaking views of the vineyards and surrounding hills, creating a perfect backdrop for a relaxed meal. The lunch is described as delicious and satisfying, often featuring local ingredients to complement the wines.

Guests mention that the atmosphere is informal yet refined, allowing for genuine conversations about wine, life, and the stunning scenery. This sit-down meal provides a welcome pause in the day, giving you time to reflect on your tastings and soak in the views.

Learning from Passionate Guides

Throughout the day, the guides share insights into winemaking secrets and regional history. Their enthusiasm and knowledge elevate the experience beyond just tasting wines—they help you understand the craftsmanship involved. Many guests appreciated the personal touches, such as anecdotes about the wineries or tips for future wine purchases.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Nelson accommodations, making it convenient and hassle-free. The total duration is about 8.5 hours, which means you’ll want to set aside your whole day. Transportation is comfortable, and small groups or private options are available, ensuring a more intimate experience.

The cost is $275 per person, which covers tastings, lunch, refreshments, and transport. While wine bottles aren’t included, this gives you ample opportunity to sample a variety of wines without the pressure of deciding what to buy on the spot.

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What Travelers Should Know

You’ll visit 4 wineries, with the itinerary tailored based on winery availability.
Bring your passport or ID—necessary for tastings.
No alcohol consumption before or during the tour is allowed for safety reasons.
The tour is not suitable for children under 18.
The experience is available in English with optional private or small group arrangements.
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

This tour’s biggest strength is its balance of scenic beauty, authentic wine tasting, and insightful guides. The small-group format allows for personalized attention, and the boutique wineries make you feel like you’re discovering hidden treasures.

Some reviewers mention that the long day can be tiring, especially in warm weather. If you prefer a quick snapshot of wine regions, this tour might feel a bit full-on. However, for dedicated wine lovers, the comprehensive nature ensures you get a real taste of Marlborough’s best.

This experience is perfect for travelers who love wine—and want to deepen their understanding of Marlborough’s signature varietals. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a guided, relaxed day out. If you’re after a high-quality, curated experience with scenic views and expert commentary, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less ideal for children or those seeking a quick overview of the region. Also, if you’re hoping to take bottles home, plan to arrange shipping separately, as bottles are not included.

If you’re eager to taste Marlborough’s best wines in a setting that’s both scenic and educational, this tour offers excellent value. For $275, you get a full day of discovery—visiting boutique wineries, enjoying a scenic drive, and sharing a delicious vineyard lunch.

The mix of intimate tastings, expert guides, and stunning scenery makes it a memorable way to experience New Zealand’s premier wine region. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass of sauvignon blanc, this tour gives you a genuine connection to Marlborough’s winemaking soul.

For those who want more than just tasting—looking for authentic stories, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed day out—this tour provides a well-balanced, enjoyable experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for Marlborough’s wine scene.

How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit four wineries during the tour, with the itinerary planned based on winery availability and opening hours.

What is included in the price?
The $275 fee covers all wine tastings, a vineyard lunch, refreshments, and transportation from Nelson.

Can I buy wine bottles during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase wine bottles at the wineries, but shipping or taking bottles home is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID for tastings, comfortable shoes for walking, and sun protection if the weather is warm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for guests under 18 years of age.

Can I customize the experience?
Private or small-group options are available, and the itinerary is tailored based on winery availability.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, making it a full-day outing.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the day.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Wine, Art & Wilderness, known for curated wine and nature experiences.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at Marlborough’s wine culture, perfect for those wanting to enjoy a scenic, educational, and delicious day out in New Zealand’s most famous wine country.