Anchorage’s 6 Top Wine Tours

Anchorage may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine tours, but its proximity to stunning natural landscapes makes for a surprisingly unique wine experience. While Alaska isn’t famous for vineyards, the city offers some memorable ways to indulge in local wines and culinary treats while soaking in breathtaking scenery.

We’re particularly fond of the Hike Matanuska Glacier with Alaska Local Honey and Wine Tasting—a rare blend of adventure and taste that turns a glacier hike into a full sensory experience.

Imagine walking among ice formations and then relaxing with local honey and wine afterward. That’s what makes Anchorage special for wine lovers who crave something beyond the usual vineyard tours.

If you prefer a more relaxed, culinary-focused experience, the Taste of the Wild: Chocolate and Wine Pairings in the Alaskan offers an intimate look at Alaska’s culinary scene. It combines handcrafted chocolates with local wines, all set against the backdrop of stunning Alaskan scenery.

And for those eager to see wildlife and enjoy scenic drives, the Wilderness and Wine Tasting out of Anchorage delivers a mix of wildlife encounters, glacier views, and local wine tasting. Below, we’ll explore each of these options in detail to help you find the perfect fit for your Alaska adventure.

1. Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting

This tour is a one-of-a-kind adventure combining glacier hiking with a taste of local Alaskan honey and wine. For around $310 per person, you’ll spend approximately 8.5 hours exploring the Matanuska Glacier, one of Alaska’s most stunning ice formations.

The small-group setting—limited to 14 travelers—ensures an intimate experience, where you’re guided by an expert who explains how glaciers form and move.

You don’t need special equipment; crampons and snow pants are provided, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned hiker.

What sets this tour apart is the chance to walk between towering glacial walls and see fantastic ice formations up close. The guide’s commentary makes this much more than a walk on ice—it’s an educational journey. Afterward, you’ll visit the scenic Glenn Highway, which traces the glacier’s history, and stop in Palmer for some coffee and munchies.

The highlight is the wine and honey tasting, which offers a perfect way to unwind after the hike. Reviews consistently praise the spectacular scenery and the knowledgeable guides.

Bottom line: This is a superb choice if you want to combine a physically engaging experience with local flavors. It’s ideal for those looking to tick off a true Alaskan glacier exploration while enjoying a glass of wine in the great outdoors.

2. Taste of the Wild: Chocolate and Wine Pairings in the Alaskan

For just about $109, this 3-hour tour offers a delightful escape into Alaska’s culinary scene with wine and chocolate tastings. It’s perfect for those who want a cozy, intimate experience without the physical exertion of a glacier hike.

Hosted at a local venue, the tour showcases handcrafted chocolates made with Alaskan ingredients paired thoughtfully with local wines. The guide shares stories about Alaska’s makers and the ingredients used, enriching the tasting experience.

Guests love how natural and high-quality the chocolates and wines are, with many noting the guide, Chris, as friendly and informative. This tour is a great way to understand Alaska’s food culture in a relaxed setting, making it ideal for couples or small groups who enjoy culinary experiences. Plus, it’s a good choice if you’re tight on time but still want a memorable taste of Alaska.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in discovering Alaska’s local flavors in a laid-back setting, this tour offers a memorable experience at a reasonable price.

3. Wilderness and Wine Tasting out of Anchorage

At number 3, this 6-hour tour combines wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and wine tasting for $199 per person. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to see Alaska’s iconic animals and glaciers while enjoying a glass of local wine. The tour begins with a scenic drive along the Turnagain Arm, where you might see Dall sheep, Beluga whales, and other wildlife.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a highlight—here, you get up close with native animals like moose, bison, and eagles.

After a potential lunch stop at Portage Glacier Lake, the day wraps up with a wine tasting in Anchorage. One reviewer calls it “the greatest experience,” emphasizing wildlife sightings and the guide’s personable nature. The itinerary is flexible enough to tailor to wildlife and scenery preferences, making it attractive for travelers who want a combination of outdoor adventure and local wine.

Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers interested in wildlife, glaciers, and a relaxed wine experience afterward. It balances scenery and comfort nicely.

4. Anchorage: Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour

For those who prefer a shorter, more indulgent experience, this 3-hour tour at $110 per person offers a delicious pairing of handcrafted chocolates and local wines. Held in Anchorage, it’s a straightforward way to enjoy Alaska’s culinary talents without leaving the city. The tour visits 61 Degree North Winery, where you’ll taste curated wines paired with chocolates from Chugach.

This tour is ideal if you’re craving something sweet and want to learn about the local chocolate-making process and wine culture. It’s also perfect for a relaxed afternoon, especially if you’re not keen on outdoor adventures. Reviewers mention “learning about the chocolate and how local ingredients are used,” and the experience is described as fun and informative.

Bottom line: An excellent option for those who love sweets and wine, and want a taste of Alaska’s craft scene in a cozy setting.

5. Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey, Wine Tasting

This tour offers a guided glacier hike combined with tasting local honey and wine for around $310 per person. Similar to the first tour, it features a leisurely hike on the Matanuska Glacier, but with a slightly longer duration—about 8.5 hours. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.

The highlight, besides the glacier itself, is savoring handcrafted honey and wine afterward, which makes for a relaxed and flavorful finish.

Reviewers highlight the stunning glacier views and the opportunity to see ice up close, with guides sharing detailed information about glacier formation. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor activity and interested in Alaska’s natural wonders. The price reflects the exclusive nature of the experience, and the small-group setting ensures personalized attention.

Bottom line: Ideal for serious outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine glacier exploration with tasting Alaska’s honey and wine.

6. Anchorage: Wildlife, Glacier, and Wine Tasting Tour

This 6-hour tour at $199 per person encompasses wildlife viewing, glacier scenery, and wine tasting in one action-packed day. Starting with a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm, you’ll see Dall sheep, mountain goats, and potentially Beluga whales.

The visit to Portage Glacier Lake offers some of the best vistas and photo ops. The tour concludes with a relaxed wine tasting in Anchorage, with snacks and water provided during transit.

While this tour doesn’t specify reviews, its mix of scenery and wildlife makes it attractive to travelers who want an immersive Alaskan experience with a wine twist. It’s especially suitable if you want a comprehensive day out that combines nature and local flavors.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a balance of wildlife, glacier sights, and a casual wine tasting without committing to a full-day hike.

How to Choose Your Perfect Anchorage Wine Tour

Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests, fitness level, and time. If you love adventure and scenic landscapes, the Matanuska Glacier hike with honey and wine (Tour #1 or #5) is hard to beat. For a culinary escape, the Chocolate and Wine Pairings (Tour #2 or #4) offers a relaxed, flavorful experience.

And if wildlife and scenic drives appeal most, Wilderness and Wildlife Tours (Tours #3 and #6) deliver a balanced day out.

Think about your budget: the glacier hikes are more expensive but include memorable active experiences, while the tastings are more affordable and leisurely. Book early, especially in peak summer months, and consider combining tours if weather allows. Remember, many tours include hotel pickups, making logistics easier.

Final Thoughts

Anchorage offers surprises for every type of traveler interested in wine, wildlife, or stunning natural scenery. Whether you want an exhilarating glacier hike with tasting—like the Hike Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Local Honey, Wine Tasting—or a cozy culinary experience with chocolates and local wines, there’s an option suited to your style. For those looking for a bit of everything, the Wilderness and Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded day.

If you’re planning a trip to Anchorage and love good wine paired with local flavors or stunning scenery, these tours are worth booking early. Each offers a different taste of Alaska—choose the one that fits your interests, and enjoy exploring the Last Frontier from a new perspective.

Happy travels and happy tastings!