South Island’s wine country delivers some of New Zealand’s finest tastings, with standout experiences in Central Otago. We love Kinross Winery tours for their intimate small groups and accessibility – they offer excellent tastings of regional stars like Valli and Wild Irishman wines. The Classic Central Otago experience hits all the right notes for Pinot Noir enthusiasts. For an active option, grab a bike and pedal through gorgeous vineyard countryside to Gibbston Valley Winery. These are our favorite wine adventures among the many excellent choices across the region.
Let’s explore the top wine tours worth your time and money:
Key Points
- Kinross Winery in Central Otago offers premium wine tasting experiences with a maximum group size of 21 travelers and wheelchair-accessible facilities.
- The Valli Wine Tasting Experience provides a guided tasting of acclaimed Valli wines for $26.78 per person and allows up to 21 travelers.
- Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience features intimate tours of up to 12 travelers with wheelchair-friendly access and alcoholic beverages.
- The Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience offers a guided tasting of Pinot Noir and other varietals for up to 24 travelers, rated 4.8 stars.
- The Half-Day Self-Guided Ride and Wine Bike Tour provides an 8.6-mile scenic ride with a tasting at Gibbston Valley Winery, rated 4.9 stars.
Kinross Winery: Premium Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience
At the Kinross Winery, located in the heart of Central Otago, visitors can indulge in a premium wine tasting experience that showcases the region’s renowned vintages.
The winery’s Cellar Door and Cottages serve as the meeting point, where a maximum of 21 travelers can embark on this sensory journey. The €42.36 per person experience is wheelchair-accessible and suitable for most participants over 18 years old.
The wine advisor will guide the tasting, with the activity ending back at the starting point. Travelers can secure their spot while maintaining flexibility, as free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Read our full review: Kinross Winery: Premium Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience Review
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Kinross Winery: Valli Wine Tasting Experience
Visitors to Kinross Winery can now explore the acclaimed Valli wine portfolio through a guided tasting experience.
Located in South Island, New Zealand, the Kinross Winery offers a maximum of 21 travelers per tour a chance to sample exceptional wines led by a Wine Advisor.
The experience is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly surfaces and service animals allowed.
Booking is flexible, with a confirmation provided upon booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Priced at $26.78 per person, the Valli Wine Tasting Experience provides a premium opportunity to immerse in the region’s renowned viticulture.
Read our full review: Kinross Winery: Valli Wine Tasting Experience Review
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Kinross Winery: Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience
The Kinross Winery’s Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience invites oenophiles to embark on a journey through the region’s acclaimed viticulture.
Located in the South Island of New Zealand, this tour takes visitors to the 2300 Gibbston Highway, where they’ll discover the winery’s renowned Wild Irishman wines.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, the experience ensures an intimate and personalized tasting.
The meeting point and end point are the same, making it a convenient and accessible option for most.
Alcoholic beverages are included, and the tour is wheelchair-friendly, catering to diverse needs.
Travelers can book this experience with a confirmation received at the time of booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: Kinross Winery: Wild Irishman Wine Tasting Experience Review
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Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience
Kinross Winery’s Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience invites guests to explore the acclaimed viticulture of the South Island region.
Located in Queenstown, the winery welcomes up to 24 travelers to its Cellar Door and Cottages for a guided tasting. Priced from $14.88 per person, the activity provides a classic introduction to the region’s renowned Pinot Noir and other varietals.
Wheelchair-accessible and suitable for most participants over 18, the experience concludes back at the meeting point.
With a 4.8-star rating across verified reviews, the Kinross Winery tour offers an authentic glimpse into Central Otago’s celebrated wine heritage.
Read our full review: Kinross Winery: Classic Central Otago Wine Tasting Experience Review
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Half-Day Self-Guided Ride and Wine Bike Tour From Arrowtown
Eager to explore the scenic landscapes and renowned wineries of Central Otago? This half-day self-guided wine and cycling experience from Arrowtown is a must-try.
With an 8.6-mile ride featuring rivers, suspension bridges, and mountain views, it’s the perfect way to learn about the region’s natural beauty. The tour includes bike and helmet rental, as well as a wine tasting at the end at Gibbston Valley Winery.
Travelers have raved about the experience, with a 4.9 rating from 60 reviews. Independent travelers can customize their itinerary and enjoy leisure stops along the route.
Lunch is available at the end of the ride, making this a well-rounded and flexible wine tour.
Read our full review: Half-Day Self-Guided Ride and Wine Bike Tour From Arrowtown Review
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Kinross Winery: Pinot Noir Wine Tasting Experience
Kinross Winery’s Pinot Noir Wine Tasting Experience invites visitors to embark on a flavor journey through the renowned vintages of the South Island.
Located along the Gibbston Highway in Queenstown, this activity welcomes up to 24 travelers to sample Pinot Noir wines in the winery’s modern cellar door.
The experience is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate as long as they’re over 18.
Booking is easy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time and the option to reserve now and pay later.
At just $26.78 per person, this Pinot Noir tasting offers an affordable way to discover the region’s exceptional wine offerings.
Read our full review: Kinross Winery: Pinot Noir Wine Tasting Experience Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food to the Winery?
Yes, you can typically bring your own food to wineries. Many wineries encourage guests to bring picnics to enjoy with their wines. However, it’s always best to check the winery’s policies beforehand to ensure they allow outside food.
Do the Wine Tastings Include a Tour of the Vineyard?
Most wine tastings include a tour of the vineyard, allowing visitors to see the grape-growing process firsthand. The tour provides an in-depth look at the winery’s operations and offers a deeper appreciation for the wine-making experience.
What Is the Dress Code for the Wine Tasting Experiences?
Most wine tasting experiences don’t have a strict dress code. Visitors typically wear casual, comfortable clothing like jeans and a t-shirt. The focus is on enjoying the wine, not fashion, so guests can dress as they please.
Can I Purchase Wine Directly From the Winery After the Tasting?
Yes, visitors can typically purchase wine directly from the wineries after the tasting. Many wineries offer this option, allowing customers to take home their favorite wines sampled during the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Wine Tasting Experiences?
Most wineries require participants to be at least 18 years old to take part in wine tasting experiences. Some may allow younger visitors to attend but they won’t be able to sample the wines.
The Sum Up
The South Island of New Zealand offers a variety of exceptional wine tours for visitors. From premium wine tastings at Kinross Winery to self-guided bike tours, there are numerous options to explore the region’s renowned vineyards and sample its world-class wines. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to experience the scenic beauty of Central Otago, the South Island’s wine tours provide an unforgettable experience.