2 Best Brewery Tours And Tastings In Dunedin and The Otago Peninsula

Two outstanding brewery experiences await beer lovers in Dunedin. At Emersons, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at modern craft brewing, complete with expert commentary and generous tastings of their finest beers. The historic Speights tour offers a different but equally fascinating experience – you’ll explore a 19th-century brewery while learning about New Zealand’s brewing heritage, topped off with a proper tasting session.

I especially love the Emersons tour for its intimate size and the staff’s genuine passion for craft beer. The Speights experience stands out for its rich historical context and well-preserved Victorian architecture.

Let’s explore these top brewery tours in detail…

Key Points

• Emerson’s Brewery Tour offers a guided exploration of the production facilities, educational insights, and a tasting tray of signature brews in Dunedin.
• Speights Brewery Tour provides a small-group experience focused on the brewery’s century-old heritage, with a guided tasting session of their signature beers.
• Both brewery tours offer unique insights into the regional brewing culture, catering to beer enthusiasts and history buffs.
• The Emerson’s Brewery Tour is wheelchair-friendly and near public transport, while the Speights Brewery Tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves stairs.
• Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and quality of the beer samples during the brewery tour experiences in Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula.

Emersons Brewery Tour

The Emersons Brewery Tour in Dunedin offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of New Zealand’s most respected craft breweries. Priced from $24.27 per person, this 16-person tour takes guests through Emersons’ production facilities, where they’ll learn about the brewing process and sample the brewery’s award-winning beers.

The tour begins at the central Dunedin meeting point, with the group then heading to the brewery’s location on the Otago Peninsula. Along the way, you will enjoy a tasting tray featuring Emersons’ signature brews.

The knowledgeable guide, praised by past visitors, provides insights into the brewery’s history and the art of crafting exceptional beers.

Accessibility is a key feature, as the tour is wheelchair-friendly and located near public transportation. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 4 reviews, the Emersons Brewery Tour offers a unique and enjoyable experience for beer enthusiasts visiting Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula.

Read our full review: Emersons Brewery Tour Review
Book now: Check availability

Speights Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting

For those interested in exploring Dunedin’s rich brewing heritage, the Speights Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting offers an engaging and informative experience. Situated in the heart of Dunedin, this small-group tour takes visitors on a journey through over a century of beer-making history. The 93% traveler recommendation and Badge of Excellence further attest to the tour’s quality.

During the tour, guests will learn about the brewery’s brewing processes and sample a selection of Speights’ signature beers. The guided tasting session allows visitors to appreciate the flavors and aromas of the brews.

With multiple start times available, the tour caters to various schedules. While a moderate level of physical fitness is required, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the presence of stairs.

Priced at $27.30 per person, the Speights Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting is an excellent choice for beer enthusiasts and those interested in the region’s brewing heritage. The knowledgeable guides, engaging content, and quality beer samples make this tour a must-do activity in Dunedin.

Read our full review: Speights Brewery Tour & Guided Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cost of the Brewery Tours?

The cost of the brewery tours varies, typically ranging from $10 to $50 per person. Some tours may include samples or tastings, while others may offer added experiences like food pairings or behind-the-scenes access.

Are There Any Dietary Options Available During the Tours?

Many breweries offer dietary options during their tours, catering to vegans, vegetarians, and those with food allergies. Guests should inquire about the available options when booking their tour to ensure their dietary needs are accommodated.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tastings?

Most breweries allow visitors to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to tastings, though it’s best to check with the specific brewery beforehand. Some may have food options available or restrictions on outside items.

Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?

Most brewery tours are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wide doorways to accommodate visitors. Some breweries may have limited accessibility in certain areas, so it’s best to check with the brewery directly before booking a tour.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tours?

The minimum age requirement for the brewery tours varies, but many allow children as young as 12 to accompany an adult. Some may have stricter policies, so it’s best to check with the specific brewery before booking.

The Sum Up

Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula offer excellent brewery tours and tastings. Emersons Brewery and Speights Brewery provide informative tours that allow visitors to learn about the beer-making process and sample the local brews. These experiences are perfect for both beer enthusiasts and those looking to explore the region’s rich brewing heritage.