VIP Wine Experience from Queenstown Including Gourmet Lunch.

If you’re considering a luxury wine tour in Queenstown, this VIP experience from Latitude 45 Luxury Tours promises to be a standout. With a focus on exclusive tastings, beautiful landscapes, and personalized attention, it’s designed for those who want more than just a general overview of Central Otago’s wine scene.

What we love about this tour are the private vineyard visits where you meet wine makers, the stunning scenery across four key regions, and the first-hand stories behind each label from passionate industry insiders. Plus, the luxury vehicle ensures comfort throughout an approximately 6 to 8-hour journey. That said, it’s a significant investment, so travelers should consider whether the premium price aligns with the intimate, curated nature of this tour.

Ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, relaxed day in New Zealand’s famed wine country, this tour offers an in-depth experience that balances education, indulgence, and sightseeing.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Tastings: Meet wine makers and vineyard owners for a more personal experience
• Multiple Regions Explored: Cover four subregions with diverse landscapes and vineyard styles
• Gourmet Lunch Included: Enjoy a unique meal cooked in Pinot Noir barrels with perfect wine pairings
• Luxury Transportation: Travel comfortably in high-end vehicles with a knowledgeable guide
• Rich History & Stunning Views: Learn about the gold rush era while soaking in breathtaking scenery
• Highly Rated Guides: Known for industry experts who share engaging stories and insights

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Queenstown

The tour kicks off with a luxury pickup in the morning, setting a tone of comfort and style. The vehicle is described as a premium, comfortable ride, making the journey itself part of the luxury experience. The initial 30-minute stop allows guests to settle in and get ready for the day ahead, with no additional cost for entry or tickets—just the start of what promises to be a well-curated adventure.

Gibbston Valley: The Heart of Queenstown’s Wine Scene

Gibbston is often called the “Valley of the Vines,” and for good reason. Here, you’ll spend around an hour and a half enjoying the art of winemaking at a top boutique vineyard. The highlight is a private tasting with the vineyard’s wine maker, where you’ll get to taste wines straight from the barrel or sample in the vineyard’s barrel hall.

Guests have noted that Luwis, the guide, is extremely knowledgeable and shares engaging and interesting tidbits about winemaking, adding a lot of depth to the experience. Reviewers have praised the stunning scenery along the way, making every moment picturesque.

Bannockburn & Kawarau Gorge: Rich with Gold Rush History

Next, the journey takes you through the breathtaking landscape of Bannockburn and Kawarau Gorge. Expect about an hour visiting a renowned cellar door for another private tasting. During this stop, your guide offers insights into the area’s history, including the gold rush era, which adds an extra layer of cultural richness to the experience.

Cromwell & a Unique Gourmet Lunch

Traveling to Cromwell, you’ll pause at significant landmarks for photos and reflection. The standout feature here is the lunch experience — a meal prepared in Pinot Noir barrels, paired expertly with wines. This unique culinary touch is both memorable and delicious, elevating the lunch beyond standard fare.

Bendigo Vineyard Experience

Further along, the tour visits a boutique vineyard in Bendigo, where you’ll spend about an hour and a half sampling multi-award-winning wines directly from the cellar door. The opportunity to meet the winemaker in an intimate setting provides a behind-the-scenes feel that many travelers crave.

Arrowtown & Vintage Tasting Finale

The day wraps up in Arrowtown, a historic gold rush town, where you’ll enjoy a back vintage guided tasting paired with tapas at a boutique wine store. Many reviews highlight how this final stop offers a relaxed, authentic ending to a busy day, blending local history with wines that have stood the test of time.

Return to Queenstown

Relax in your luxury vehicle and reflect on a day filled with stunning vistas, expert insights, and memorable tastings. The 20-minute journey back allows for some post-tour relaxation and photo-sharing.

Why This Tour Offers Exceptional Value

While the price of $854.16 per person might seem high, it covers more than just wine tastings. You’re paying for private, guided experiences across multiple regions, luxury transportation, and an authentic connection with the winemakers and the landscape. The reviews reinforce this perceived value, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery that made each stop special.

The inclusion of a gourmet lunch cooked in Pinot Noir barrels adds a culinary dimension that many other tours lack. It’s also worth noting that the small group size (as it’s a private experience) means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, allowing for a more personalized day.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers have highlighted Luwis as an incredible guide who shares engaging stories and knowledge, making the tour not just a tasting but a learning experience. Guests also appreciated the stunning landscapes and the chance to meet wine makers—something that elevates the typical winery visit.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts roughly 6 to 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.
• Most travelers will find this experience suitable, but the price and private nature might make it more appealing for those with a special occasion or a keen interest in wine.
• The tour is flexible, with optional extra hours for further vineyard or sightseeing time, giving you control over how much you wish to indulge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This VIP wine experience is perfect for serious wine lovers wanting a deep dive into Central Otago’s offerings. It’s also suited for couples or groups celebrating milestones, those who appreciate luxury and comfort, or travelers eager to learn from industry insiders. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, personalized day with stunning scenery and gourmet touches, this tour checks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This Queenstown-based VIP wine tour offers a luxurious, intimate exploration of Central Otago’s vineyards, history, and landscapes. With private tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious gourmet lunch, it’s a well-rounded experience that blends education with indulgence. The small group format ensures a personalized journey, making it ideal for those seeking a deeper connection to New Zealand’s iconic wines.

While the cost is on the higher side, the quality of the experience, the scenic variety, and the opportunity to meet passionate wine makers justify the investment for many travelers. It’s a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion or to indulge your curiosity about New Zealand’s renowned wine country.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private tastings at multiple vineyards, a gourmet lunch cooked in Pinot Noir barrels with wine pairing, luxury transportation, and guided commentary.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, taste, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those who enjoy wine, scenic drives, and historic sites. It’s designed as a private tour, so the group size is small and personalized.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $854.16 per person, which reflects the private, luxury experience, private tastings, and gourmet lunch.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, guests are picked up in a premium vehicle, ensuring comfort and style throughout the day.

Do I get to meet the winemakers?
Absolutely. One of the highlights is private tastings with the winemakers and vineyard owners, offering insights not available to casual visitors.

What regions will I visit?
You’ll explore four regions: Gibbston, Bannockburn, Bendigo, and Arrowtown, each offering distinct landscapes and wines.

This VIP wine tour is a fantastic way to soak in Queenstown’s scenery while indulging in some of New Zealand’s best wines. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or simply eager to learn more about viticulture, it offers a thoughtfully curated, memorable day that balances luxury with authentic experiences.