Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour | Adults Only

If you’re after a relaxed, flavorful adventure in Queenstown, the Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour offers a delightful afternoon of tasting and sightseeing. This small-group tour — with a maximum of 10 guests — promises a blend of scenic vistas, expertly curated drinks, and plenty of local charm.

Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or just curious about New Zealand’s craft beverages, this experience caters to all enthusiasts looking to indulge in a taste of Queenstown’s beverage scene.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of tastings — over 12 in total — from craft beers and premium gins to Central Otago wines. Second, the personalized, intimate atmosphere fostered by small groups and local guides. It’s a chance to connect, learn, and savor in a setting that emphasizes authenticity and local flavor.

A potential consideration? The tour’s duration of around 3.5 hours means it’s best suited for those comfortable with a fair amount of sampling and sightseeing. If you’re looking for a quick drink or a full-day excursion, this might be more of a flavorful afternoon experience. Still, it suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and value quality over quantity.

Ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction to Queenstown’s beverage offerings, this tour balances fun, education, and stunning scenery. If you enjoy good stories, great drinks, and a bit of local history, this is likely your perfect afternoon.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 10 guests for personalized attention and better camaraderie.
• Diverse Tastings: Over 12 tastings of beer, gin, and wine, offering a broad flavor spectrum.
• Stunning Scenery: Scenic stops at Canyon Brewing, Rifters Gin in Arrowtown, and Amisfield Winery.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides who share stories and insights along the way.
• Luxury Transportation: Traveled in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, adding a touch of class.
• Adults Only: Designed for guests 18+, ensuring a mature, relaxed vibe.

Detailed Review of the Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour

The Overview: A Flavorful Journey with Scenic Views

Starting at Marmolada Café in Queenstown, the tour kicks off in the early afternoon at 3:00 pm, making it an ideal way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The small, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride while allowing the guides to share colorful stories about Queenstown and its surroundings. This is not just a drinking tour; it’s a curated experience blending flavor education with breathtaking scenery.

Throughout the roughly 3.5 hours, you’ll visit four carefully chosen stops. The focus is on quality and storytelling, with each venue offering its own unique character and locally crafted products.

Stop 1: Canyon Brewing — Queenstown’s Craft Beer Highlight

Your journey begins near the Shotover River, famous for its rugged beauty and adrenaline activities. Canyon Brewing is a must-visit for craft beer lovers, offering a spectacular backdrop of Skippers Canyon. The brewery combines a welcoming environment with an impressive lineup of local brews.

Here, you can opt for a paddle of beers or a wine flight—whichever suits your palate. The views are as much a part of the experience as the drinks, with many reviewers noting how the scenery enhances the tasting: “Enjoy a selection of local brews while taking in epic alpine views.”

This stop typically lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to relax, chat with fellow guests, and soak in the landscape.

Stop 2: Rifters Gin in Arrowtown — A Small-Batch Gem

Next, you head to Dudleys Cottage in Arrowtown, a historic town with genuine charm. Rifters Gin is renowned for its grain-to-glass small-batch gins crafted with botanicals and artesian water. It’s a chance to learn how premium gin is made in New Zealand and to sample a lineup of their flavorful options.

Guests frequently praise their hosts: “Phillip at Rifters was by far the best,” and the tasting room itself is described as “charming and inviting.” This stop offers insight into the distilling process and allows for a more interactive experience. You might find yourself savoring a sip while listening to stories about local ingredients and the distillery’s history.

Stop 3: Amisfield Winery — A Stunning Setting for Fine Wines

The final stop is Amisfield Winery, an award-winning vineyard with an impressive cellar door and restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of some of Central Otago’s finest wines, renowned for their elegance and depth.

Guests frequently comment on the breathtaking views and the beautiful stone building, which perfectly embodies the region’s character. The tasting usually lasts about 45 minutes, offering enough time to appreciate the wines and relax without feeling rushed. Many reviews highlight the “great selection of wines” and the knowledgeable guides, who enrich the experience with stories about the region’s wine-making heritage.

The Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart

One of the tour’s standout qualities is its balance of scenic beauty and flavorful exploration. You’re not just drinking; you’re gaining insight into local craftsmanship and the stories behind each product. The small group setting fosters conversation and allows guides to tailor the experience where possible, making it more intimate and engaging.

The luxury Mercedes Sprinter ensures a smooth, comfortable ride between stops, so you can focus on the tasting and scenery rather than worrying about transport. With live commentary, guides share local stories, fun facts, and tips about Queenstown and the surrounding areas.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

Guests consistently laud the guides for their knowledge and friendliness — “Lee was such a gem,” and “Emma made the tour extremely enjoyable.” The atmosphere is described as relaxed and friendly, with many travelers praising the delicious tastings and stunning views. A few mention that the last winery can feel a bit rushed, but overall, the experience remains highly positive.

Value for Money

At a price of around $167 per person, the tour offers good value considering the three and a half hours of guided tastings, transportation, and insider stories. The variety of drinks — from craft beers to fine wines and artisan gins — makes it a comprehensive tasting experience. For those interested in local flavors and scenic views, it provides a rich, memorable afternoon without the hefty price tag of some full-day tours.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits adults 18+ who enjoy a good drink, engaging guides, and scenic landscapes. It’s perfect for groups wanting a relaxed, social outing or couples looking for a shared adventure. If you appreciate local craftsmanship, good stories, and beautiful scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour begins at 3:00 pm and lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
• Meet at Marmolada Café on Camp Street in Queenstown.
• The tour operates with a minimum of 4 guests and a maximum of 10-11, so booking early is recommended.
• Confirmations are immediate, and cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is exclusively for adults (18+), making it ideal for those seeking a mature, laid-back environment.
• Though not included, you can purchase additional food or snacks at the venues if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
It’s designed for adults 18 and over who enjoy tasting and socializing. Non-drinkers might miss out on the main experience but could still enjoy the scenery and stories if they choose not to partake in tastings.

How long is each stop?
Each stop generally lasts about 45 minutes, allowing enough time for tasting, learning, and taking photos or enjoying the view.

What’s the transportation like?
You’ll ride in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter, which is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the journey between stops relaxing and scenic.

Are there food options during the tour?
Food isn’t included, but some venues may offer the opportunity to purchase snacks or tapas. A reviewer suggested that a small snack or cheese platter would add to the experience.

Can I customize my tastings?
While the tour is structured, guests can typically choose between beer or wine at certain stops, catering to different preferences.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
You might find the experience less engaging since tastings are a key part, but you could still enjoy the scenery and guide commentary.

Is the tour suitable for couples?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention it’s a great activity for couples seeking a relaxed, shared experience.

What happens if the minimum number of guests isn’t reached?
The tour can be canceled with a full refund or rescheduled, so it’s wise to book early.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons, as spaces are limited.

Can I join the tour if I’m staying outside Queenstown?
Yes, as long as you can get to the starting point on Camp Street by 3:00 pm.

Final Thoughts

The Queenstown Gin, Wine & Beer Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the region’s craft beverages, set against some of New Zealand’s most impressive scenery. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a chance to connect with Queenstown’s local spirit.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate quality, enjoy good company, and want a relaxed yet engaging afternoon. Whether you’re celebrating, sightseeing, or simply curious about New Zealand’s craft scene, this tour stands out for its authenticity and scenic charm.

For those seeking an enjoyable way to learn about local beverages while taking in Queenstown’s stunning landscapes, this tour hits all the right notes. Just remember to come thirsty — and ready for a good story or two along the way.