Gourmet Food and Wine Tour From Queenstown

A Day Full of Indulgence in Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell

Visiting the beautiful vineyards and wine regions of Queenstown is a rare treat for wine connoisseurs and laymen alike. After a scenic drive following pick-up from your accommodation, follow your guide on a journey that will immerse you into the sights and tastes of 3 wine sub-regions of Central Otago - Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell.

The tour takes you to the largest underground wine cave in New Zealand, followed by a hearty lunch consisting of 5 dishes prepared in retired oak barrels. Paired with 5 complementing wines, the meal and drinks are a match made in culinary heaven! More tastings await at 3 premium vineyards and The Stoaker Room.

A Dose of History in Arrowtown

Once you are pleasantly full with food and wine, it is time to retrace history. Visit the historic settlements of Arrowtown, and if time permits, enjoy a stroll through Old Cromwell. Your knowledgeable guide will ply you with fun facts and stories that will shed light on the early pioneering history and the formation of the wine region.

A final indulgence awaits at the end of the tour in the form of some artisan chocolates. Relive the memories of the day as you savor the taste of the handmade delights on your way back.

Gourmet Food and Wine Tour From Queenstown

The Gourmet Food and Wine Tour from Queenstown offers an unparalleled culinary experience, taking you to the heart of New Zealand's wine country in Gibbston, Bannockburn, and Cromwell for a small group adventure that includes hotel transfers, gourmet meals, and wine tastings. This guided tour covers approximately 100 kilometers along scenic routes, with stops at three premium vineyards, including Gibbston Valley Winery, where you'll explore the largest underground wine cave in New Zealand. You will also visit Arrowtown to learn about its history dating back to the 1860s during the gold rush era. The tour lasts around seven hours and includes a variety of experiences such as wine barrel-cooked lunch with five dishes paired perfectly with local wines, artisan chocolate gift boxes on the way back, and photo opportunities at key scenic spots en route. This sightseeing experience is available in English and offers full wheelchair accessibility for all participants.

Discover Premium Vineyards and Wineries

Your tour stops at three premium vineyards where guests can explore the intricacies of wine-making in New Zealand's Central Otago region, including Gibbston Valley Winery. Established in 1987, this winery is known for its extensive underground cave system spanning over 20 kilometers and featuring unique barrel-aged wines. Here, visitors spend about an hour touring the cellar, tasting a variety of reds and whites, and learning about the history behind each bottle through guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. The vineyards cover approximately 50 acres with rows of vines stretching across hillsides offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This experience is unique compared to other wineries due to its extensive cave system and rich history in wine production since the early 1980s.

Explore Arrowtown's Rich History

At Arrowtown, guests can step back into time as they stroll through this charming town established during New Zealand’s gold rush period in 1862. The town features well-preserved historic buildings and a picturesque setting with the Arrow River flowing nearby. Visitors spend about an hour here exploring old mining sites, viewing artifacts from the era at the Arrowtown Museum, and enjoying a relaxing walk along the riverbank. This location is significant as it represents one of the last remaining gold rush towns in New Zealand, offering insights into local heritage and culture.

Experience Old Cromwell's Architectural Charm

If time permits, your tour will take you to Old Cromwell, a historic district with charming architecture dating back to the early 20th century. This area features well-preserved buildings from the town’s past when it was relocated due to the construction of Lake Dunstan in the late 1990s. Visitors can spend around half an hour here exploring the unique layout and learning about the town's history through informative plaques placed throughout the district. The site covers approximately two acres with various structures including old shops, homes, and community buildings that provide a glimpse into life during Cromwell’s early years.

Tour Highlights

• Discover premium vineyards at Gibbston Valley Winery
• Explore Arrowtown's gold rush history and artifacts
• Enjoy gourmet lunch with wine pairings in an underground cave
• Indulge in artisan chocolate gift boxes on the way back
• Visit three premium vineyards for guided tours and tastings
• Experience local culture at Old Cromwell if time allows
• Hotel transfers included ensuring a comfortable ride with scenic stops
• Scenic route covering approximately 100 kilometers

Perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and history buffs, this gourmet tour provides an immersive experience of New Zealand's Central Otago region through guided visits to vineyards, historical sites, and culinary delights. The seven-hour format allows you to explore Gibbston Valley Winery, Arrowtown’s gold rush heritage, and the charming architecture of Old Cromwell, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the area’s rich cultural tapestry while enjoying its renowned wines and gourmet offerings.