Premium Small-Group Wine Tour, 4 Wineries, Lunch from Queenstown

Planning a wine adventure around Queenstown? We’ve reviewed the highly-rated Premium Small-Group Wine Tour that promises four exclusive vineyard visits, scenic drives, and a delicious lunch — all in about five and a half hours. This tour consistently earns glowing reviews, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from over 600 travelers, and is recommended by 98%. If you love discovering boutique wineries, soaking in stunning landscapes, and enjoying a relaxed, personalized experience, this outing deserves your attention.

What truly stands out? The tour’s intimate size (max 12 guests) ensures personal attention and lively conversations, the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience with local insights, and the pairing of wine tastings with a gourmet lunch makes it a well-rounded day. One potential consideration is that lunch portions are on the smaller side, which might leave some wanting more, but the pairing and atmosphere are still memorable. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, are genuinely interested in New Zealand’s renowned Pinot Noir, and appreciate scenic drives with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Four boutique wineries provide a diverse tasting experience.
• Gourmet platter lunch paired with a glass of wine in Bannockburn.
• Expert guides share insight into the region’s history and unique viticulture.
• Scenic drives past iconic sights like Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off makes the day seamless.

This tour takes you from Queenstown into the heart of Central Otago, a region famed for its cool-climate wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Riesling. We loved the way the journey itself feels like part of the adventure — the route offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, the rugged Remarkables mountain range, and the quaint charm of Lake Hayes.

The small group size (12 max) ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. The vehicle, an air-conditioned coach, provides comfort for the approximately 5.5-hour trip, which includes multiple vineyard stops, a scenic drive, and a gourmet lunch. The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Queenstown hotel (if applicable), setting a convenient and stress-free tone.

Stop 1: Gibbston Valley
The journey begins with a visit to the famous Gibbston wine region, often called the “Valley of the Vines,” where you’ll step into a boutique vineyard for your first tasting. Reviewers have commented positively on the spectacular scenery along the route, with many noting that the vineyard visits are well-paced. You might find the vineyards are not just about wine but also about the atmosphere — some are set among lush vineyards with mountain views, making it easy to forget you’re in a working winery.

Stop 2: Bannockburn
Next is Bannockburn, where you’ll enjoy a light platter lunch at a local vineyard restaurant, paired with a wine of your choice. The lunch is described as small but paired nicely, with some reviews mentioning it’s more of a tasting plate than a hearty meal. This stop is a highlight for many, thanks to the delicious food on offer and the chance to relax in a peaceful vineyard setting. Some reviewers appreciated the pairing experience, finding it added to the enjoyment.

Stop 3: Cromwell Heritage Precinct
A quick stroll through the Old Cromwell gives a taste of the local history and charm. Reviewers mention this as a “nice break” amid the wine tasting, providing a bit of local flavor and photo opportunities. It’s a brief stop (around 15 minutes), but enough for a quick wander and some photos.

Stop 4: Cromwell Wine Region
Back to the vineyards, where you get your second tasting. Reviewers often cite this as a chance to sample more of the region’s high-quality Pinot Noir, with some praising the generous tastings and the knowledge of the guides. The region’s reputation for Pinot Noir is well-deserved, and this stop often becomes a highlight.

Stop 5: Gibbston (Return)
The day wraps up with a final tasting in Gibbston, allowing you to compare wines from different vineyards or revisit favorites. Some mention that the tastings are more than the usual, and you get to try a range of wines, including some special selections. This is also a convenient way to break up the drive back to Queenstown.

Multiple reviews emphasize the expertise and enthusiasm of guides like John, Allan, and Donna. One reviewer called Al “incredibly knowledgeable and friendly,” while others praised Lindsay and Martin for their informative commentary. They don’t just pour wines; they share stories about the region’s pioneering history, vineyard stories, and wine-making nuances.

A notable point from reviews is how guides foster a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and engage with fellow travelers. Many mention that guides are attentive to dietary requirements and genuinely passionate about the region.

At $157.95 per person, the tour offers great value for those wanting a curated wine experience with minimal hassle. Included in the price are wine tastings at four wineries, a shared gourmet platter lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off (if staying at selected accommodations). The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and the small group size means no one feels lost in the crowd.

However, some reviewers note that lunch portions are modest and that the wine tasting experience doesn’t include vineyard visits—it’s mainly tasting in cellar doors or tasting rooms, which is standard for premium tours. Also, while tastings are generous, you might find the focus is on sampling rather than learning about wine production, as no vineyard tours are included.

Pros:

• Personal, small-group atmosphere
• Knowledgeable, friendly guides
• Beautiful scenery along scenic drives
• High-quality, boutique wineries
• Tasty, well-paired lunch options
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off

Cons:

• Lunch portions could be larger for those with bigger appetites
• No vineyard or production tours included, just tastings
• Limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which might be restrictive for larger groups

If you’re a wine enthusiast wanting to sample top-quality boutique wines with a personal touch, this tour is a standout choice. It’s also ideal if you prefer smaller, more intimate group experiences, or if you’re keen on combining wine with scenic drives and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want to learn from guides passionate about the region, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

This tour isn’t ideal if you’re craving an in-depth vineyard tour or full wine production experiences, but for a well-curated tasting day, it hits the mark.

This Premium Small-Group Wine Tour from Queenstown offers a balanced combination of scenic beauty, expert-guided tastings, and a leisurely lunch. Many reviewers highlight the generous tastings and friendly guides as key reasons why this tour stands out. The scenic drives past Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables, along with visits to boutique wineries, make for a memorable day — especially if you love Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varietals.

The price point reflects the quality of the experience, with inclusions that make for a hassle-free day. The small-group format creates an intimate environment, perfect for those who enjoy engaging conversations and personalized attention. Whether you’re a wine newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour offers a relaxed way to explore the best of Central Otago’s viticultural gems.

Overall, if you’re after a scenic, tasting-rich day with a touch of local history and a gourmet lunch, this tour will serve you well. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your Queenstown visit and walk away with a newfound appreciation for Otago’s winemaking prowess.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy tastings at four different vineyards, a shared platter-style lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off (if applicable), and a knowledgeable local guide.

How many wineries will I visit?
The tour visits four boutique wineries, typically in Gibbston and Bannockburn/Cromwell.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years, but only guests 18 and over can consume alcohol.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and shoes suitable for walking at vineyard stops are recommended.

Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, please advise your specific needs at the time of booking to ensure suitable options during lunch.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. Most wineries offer the chance to purchase bottles, although prices may vary; some reviewers mentioned that prices at Carrick winery were higher than expected.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.

What happens if the weather is poor?
Most tours are weather-dependent, and if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Queenstown wine tour balances scenic beauty, boutique wine tasting, and personal attention, making it an excellent choice for those keen to taste Otago’s finest wines in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day out, it’s a wine experience that delivers more than just glasses—it’s about the stories, scenery, and flavors that make Central Otago special.