Queenstown Gin and Whiskey tours

If you’re searching for a way to combine Queenstown’s stunning landscapes with a deep dive into the world of gin, this tour might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally booked this experience, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary point to something truly special—an intimate, educational, and flavorful adventure crafted by a local distilling expert.

What sets this tour apart? For starters, it’s led by a knowledgeable guide, Sarah, who shares engaging stories about gins’ history and botanicals. The scenic stops around Queenstown add a visual layer to the experience, and the local gin tastings promise more than just sipping—they’re about understanding what makes these spirits uniquely Kiwi.

One thing to consider? The tour’s duration is around six hours, so it’s a good idea if you’re ready for a relaxed, immersive day. Perfect for gin enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy Queenstown’s countryside with a flavorful twist.

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Key Points

Expert-guided experience: Led by knowledgeable guides like Sarah, blending storytelling with tasting.
Beautiful scenery: Scenic stops provide picturesque views alongside your gin journey.
Local distilleries: Visits to Cardrona Distillery and Rifters’ Tasting Room offer authentic insights.
Flexible options: Private tours, evening dinners, and customized charters available.
Value for price: At around $162, you’ll gain a full day of education, tastings, and scenic beauty.
Convenient meeting point: Starting at Queenstown’s Station Building with pickup options.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This tour scores especially high in the areas of knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, making it ideal for those who love spirits and travel with a sense of curiosity. Sarah, the tour guide, is praised for her enthusiasm and insight, making the experience both fun and educational. The tours are private, meaning your group gets personalized attention, perfect for friends or couples wanting a tailored experience.

The combination of local gin tastings and scenic stops ensures you’ll learn about the spirit’s history and botanicals while soaking up Queenstown’s breathtaking views. Plus, the inclusion of a guided distillery tour means you can see where the magic happens—a real treat for spirits lovers.

Looking for more options in Queenstown? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Cardrona Distillery

The day begins with a visit to the renowned Cardrona Distillery, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour that lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes. This visit is included in your ticket, so no surprise costs here.

Expect to learn about the distilling process, the unique botanicals used, and perhaps some fun stories about the distillery’s history. Reviewers like Sarah, the guide, are noted for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making the tour more engaging. One reviewer praised it for being a great insight into local gins with a lot of fun along the way.

Stop 2: Rifters’ Tasting Room

Next, you’ll head to Rifters’ Tasting Room for a 25-minute gin tasting session. This is your chance to sample a selection of local gins, each with its own character and botanical blend.

The reviews highlight the quality and variety of the gins, with one guest noting it’s a great way to learn about gin while enjoying the scenery. The tasting room provides a relaxed setting, ideal for savoring spirits and asking questions. The inclusion of tastings as part of the tour emphasizes the focus on experiential learning and flavor appreciation.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Starting at The Station Building on Duke Street, the tour kicks off promptly at 10:00 am, so punctuality helps you get the most out of the day. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple for those staying nearby or planning to explore Queenstown afterward.

The experience offers pickup options and is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed—a considerate touch for guests with special requirements. The tour is private, so only your group participates, enhancing the personal experience.

The cost, at around $161.65 per person, might seem steep for some, but when you consider the inclusion of distillery tours, tastings, scenic stops, and expert guides, the value becomes clearer. Private tours often carry a premium, but they also offer flexibility, intimacy, and a more tailored experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Queenstown

Authentic Experiences and What Reviewers Say

From the reviews, a standout feature of this tour is the knowledgeable guide, Sarah, who makes the experience both fun and informative. One reviewer mentioned, “Sarah is super knowledgeable and takes you through local distilleries with great insight and a lot of fun,” highlighting her role in elevating the experience.

Another guest appreciated the beautiful scenery, noting that this tour provided not just tasting but a chance to see some of the countryside, making it a well-rounded experience that combines flavor with visual delight.

Travelers also mention the unforgettable flavors of the gins tasted, with many noting they learned a lot about the distilling process and local botanicals. This suggests that the tour offers meaningful insights rather than superficial tastings, making it ideal for enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re a spirits lover or someone curious about how gin is made, this tour delivers both education and entertainment in a beautiful setting. The private nature ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and you can enjoy your tastings without feeling rushed.

For those who appreciate a blend of culinary curiosity and scenic beauty, the stops around Queenstown provide perfect photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate New Zealand’s landscape alongside its spirits industry.

The flexibility of options—including private charters and evening dinners—means it can be tailored to different preferences, whether you’re seeking a full-day adventure or a more exclusive experience.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown Gin and Whiskey tour offers a well-balanced mix of educational insights, local flavors, and stunning scenery. The personal touch by guides like Sarah makes it stand out, and the inclusion of private tastings and distillery tours ensures you’ll feel like a spirits insider.

While the price is on the higher side, the value lies in the intimate, guided experience that combines tasting, learning, and sightseeing. It’s perfect for spirits enthusiasts, couples, or small groups looking for a memorable, authentic experience in Queenstown.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, quality spirits, and engaging guides will find this tour worth every penny. It provides a deeper appreciation of New Zealand’s craft gin scene while allowing you to enjoy some of the best views Queenstown has to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
The tour offers pickup options, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately six hours, giving ample time for sightseeing, tastings, and learning.

Are the tours private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for those with specific needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided distillery tour at Cardrona, tastings at Rifters’ Tasting Room, scenic stops, and the services of your knowledgeable guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, ensuring flexibility for your travel plans.

Would this tour be good for a first-time visitor to Queenstown?
Absolutely. It combines the best of local spirits with scenic views, giving you a well-rounded introduction to Queenstown’s vibrant craft scene and natural beauty.

To sum it up, the Queenstown Gin and Whiskey tour offers a well-crafted, intimate insight into New Zealand’s burgeoning spirits scene, paired with breathtaking scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine learning, tasting, and sightseeing into one memorable day. Whether you’re a dedicated spirits fan or simply seeking a unique activity in Queenstown, this tour delivers authenticity, expert guidance, and a taste of local flavor—quite literally.