Queenstown Gin and Whiskey tours

If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown and have a fondness for spirits, you’ll want to consider the Queenstown Gin and Whiskey Tours offered by Private Discovery Tours. This six-hour journey is crafted for lovers of craft spirits, blending local distillery visits, tastings, and scenic views into one engaging experience. We haven’t personally been on this tour, but based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises to be an insightful day that balances learning with fun.

What we really like about this experience is the hands-on guided tour at Cardrona Distillery — a highlight for anyone interested in the art of distilling. Plus, the local gin tastings at Rifters’ Tasting Room ensure you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for New Zealand’s burgeoning spirits scene. One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $462, which might seem high for some, but the value lies in the quality of the experience, the expert guides, and the scenic stops.

This tour is primarily suited for spirits enthusiasts, those curious about local distilling traditions, or visitors who love a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. If you’re craving an authentic, educational, yet enjoyable way to spend your day in Queenstown, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Expert-led tours with passionate guides who share stories about gins and botanicals.
• Exclusive visits to Cardrona Distillery, including a guided tour.
• Tastings of local gins, offering insight into New Zealand’s distilling scene.
• Beautiful scenery along the way, making it more than just a tasting session.
• Flexible options such as private charters and evening dinners with paired tastings.
• Convenient pickup from Queenstown’s Station Building ensures a hassle-free start.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Queenstown’s reputation as a hub for adventure and stunning scenery often overshadows its emerging spirits scene. This tour, however, puts the spotlight directly on local distilleries, giving you an authentic taste of New Zealand’s craft culture. The fact that it’s designed by a home distiller suggests a genuine passion that guides the entire experience, setting it apart from more commercialized tours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Cardrona Distillery
The tour begins at the Station Building on Duke Street, where you’re picked up and whisked off to Cardrona Distillery. Here, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 20 minutes getting a behind-the-scenes look at how spirits are made. The guided tour is one of the tour’s main highlights, offering an inside look at the distillation process. From the equipment to the ingredients, you’ll learn what makes their spirits special. Reviewers consistently praise Sarah, the guide, describing her as “wonderful,” “knowledgeable,” and “passionate,” which makes the experience both informative and friendly.

Stop 2: Rifters’ Tasting Room
After the distillery tour, you’ll head to Rifters’ Tasting Room to sample local gins. This 25-minute tasting session provides a chance to taste various spirits and learn about the botanicals used in New Zealand’s gin craft. The reviews emphasize how much participants enjoy sampling local, high-quality gins and learning about the ingredients that make them unique.

Scenic Stops & Additional Options

While the main focus is on spirits, the tour’s route offers opportunities to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful scenery. Some reviews mention that this experience is also a wonderful way to see some of the countryside, making it a well-rounded outing. For those wanting more, the provider offers private charters and an evening progressive dinner with paired tastings, adding flexibility and extra indulgence to your visit.

Practical Details & Value

The price of $462 covers all tastings, the guided tour, transportation, and the convenience of pickup from Queenstown’s Station Building. With a duration of approximately six hours, it’s a full-day experience designed to be both leisurely and engaging. The fact that it’s a private tour means you won’t be part of a large group, which enhances the chance for personalized attention and conversations.

Reviews & Authentic Experiences

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable hosts, with comments like, “Sarah is a wonderful host and full of first-hand knowledge,” and “a friendly, down-to-earth vibe makes the entire experience feel like a day out with a good friend.” Many mention the stunning scenery as an added bonus, making the tasting sessions even more memorable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for spirits lovers wanting to deepen their understanding of gin and whiskey making. It also suits travelers who enjoy small-group tours with expert guides sharing local insights. If you are interested in local flavors, authentic distillery processes, and scenic stops, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day.

Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more generic tour with fewer personalized touches, this might not be the best fit. But for those seeking a relaxed, educational, and flavorful adventure, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For spirits aficionados, this tour offers a rare glimpse into New Zealand’s craft distilling, paired with scenic views and engaging storytelling. The guided visit at Cardrona Distillery and the local gin tastings at Rifters’ provide an authentic taste of Queenstown’s emerging beverage scene. While the price may seem steep, many reviewers feel the quality of knowledge, scenery, and personalized service justifies the cost.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at spirits production and want to combine that with the stunning vistas Queenstown is famous for. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day if you’re interested in local flavors and want to learn from passionate guides who love sharing their craft.

Travelers who value authenticity, expert insights, and a less hurried pace will find this tour well worth the investment. It also makes a memorable addition to a trip focused on exploring Queenstown’s unique culture and scenery.

FAQ About Queenstown Gin and Whiskey Tours

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is provided from the Station Building on Duke Street, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for about six hours, giving enough time for the distillery visit, tastings, and scenic stops without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided tour at Cardrona Distillery, tastings of local gins, transportation, and the convenience of pickup and return to Queenstown.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are the tours private or group-based?
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, including service animals, and the tour’s relaxed pace makes it accessible for many.

What makes the guides special?
Reviews highlight guides like Sarah, who are passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love of gin and whiskey.

Is there a focus on scenery during the tour?
Yes, many reviews mention the beautiful views, making the experience not just about spirits but also about enjoying Queenstown’s natural beauty.

Are there additional options?
Yes, private charters and an evening progressive dinner with paired tastings are available for those seeking more exclusive or extensive experiences.

The Queenstown Gin and Whiskey Tours offer a well-rounded, authentic experience for those interested in craft spirits and local flavors. With expert guides, scenic stops, and tastings, it promises to be both educational and enjoyable. Perfect for spirits lovers or curious travelers, this tour adds a flavorful chapter to any Queenstown visit.