On the lookout for the best food experience in Queenstown? This South Island gem serves up three standout food and wine tours worth your time and money. The practical 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler hits three top wineries with expert tastings – perfect for busy travelers. We love the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour for its unique wine-barrel cooking and New Zealand’s biggest wine cave. And the Full-Day Central Otago tour earns our top rating, covering four distinct wineries with an excellent chef’s-choice lunch. These small-group outings use fresh local ingredients and come with smart, fun guides who know their stuff. Check out our favorite food tours below:
Key Points
- Queenstown offers a variety of food and wine tours, including a 5-hour wine and food sampler, a 6.5-hour gourmet food and wine tour, and a full-day Central Otago food and wine tour.
- The tours feature gourmet meals, wine tastings, and cheese pairings, with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients from the Queenstown region.
- The tours provide a personalized experience with small group sizes, ranging from a maximum of 14 to 12 participants, ensuring attentive service and insights from knowledgeable guides.
- Highlights include hosted tastings at local wineries, visits to Australasia’s largest wine cave, and behind-the-scenes tours of barrel rooms and vineyards.
- The tours are highly rated, with positive feedback highlighting the friendly and informative guides, scenic routes, and quality of tastings and culinary offerings.
5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour From Queenstown
The 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour from Queenstown offers a delightful immersion into the region’s renowned wine and culinary scene. With a maximum of 14 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Guests are treated to a gourmet lunch featuring three seasonal dishes expertly paired with three regional wines, allowing them to savor the flavors of Queenstown.
The tour also includes hosted wine tastings at three acclaimed local wineries, where knowledgeable guides share the stories and history behind each varietal. Accessible via public transportation, the tour offers a convenient way for wine enthusiasts and foodies to explore Queenstown’s vibrant food and beverage landscape.
Consistently praised for its friendly and informative guides, the tour receives an impressive 4.9-star rating based on 200 reviews, with 99% of guests recommending the experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply seeking a delightful afternoon activity, the 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour from Queenstown is a must-try for anyone visiting the Queenstown region.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour From Queenstown Review
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Gourmet Food and Wine Tour With Lunch and Wine Tastings
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Queenstown’s renowned wine and culinary scene, the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour presents an enticing opportunity. This 6.5-hour excursion takes participants on a journey through three scenic wine sub-regions, visiting four premium vineyards and offering a range of tasting experiences.
The tour includes a visit to Australasia’s largest wine cave, where guests can indulge in a wine and cheese pairing. A highlight is the wine-barrel cooked lunch, featuring five tasting dishes paired with carefully selected wines.
Participants will also have the chance to taste local cheeses at a vineyard and explore the historic towns of Cromwell and Arrowtown.
With transportation, all wine tastings, and the gourmet lunch included, this tour offers exceptional value. The experienced driver-guide ensures a seamless and informative experience, while the small group size of up to 12 participants allows for a more intimate and personalized outing.
Advance booking is recommended, as this tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Gourmet Food and Wine Tour With Lunch and Wine Tastings Review
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Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Central Otago’s renowned food and wine scene can embark on the Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour.
This guided tour takes visitors to four unique winery locations, where they’ll enjoy wine tastings and a behind-the-scenes barrel room and vineyard tour. The highlight of the day is a “trust-the-chef” lunch at a renowned local venue, followed by a shared cheese platter to cap off the experience.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. With a minimum of 4 adults required to confirm departure, the tour offers a social setting for wine enthusiasts.
Convenient pickups are available from various locations around Queenstown, with a central meeting point at Marmolada Cafe on Camp Street. Guests are advised to arrive 10 minutes prior to the 9:30 am start time, as the guides wait up to 5 minutes for late arrivals.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible or recommended for pregnant travelers, most other participants can enjoy the experience.
Read our full review: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian or Vegan Options Available on the Tours?
Most food tours offer vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate dietary needs. Travelers should check with the tour operator in advance to ensure their preferences can be accommodated on the culinary experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Food and Wine Tours?
The cancellation policy for these food and wine tours varies, but many operators offer flexible options. Guests should check the specific terms when booking, as some may charge a fee for last-minute cancellations or no-shows.
Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Many tour companies offer private food and wine tours in the area. Guests can book a private tour instead of a group tour, which allows for more personalized experiences and flexible scheduling. Prices may be higher for private tours compared to group tours.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tours?
Most food tour providers don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements. It’s best to check with the specific tour company to see if there are any age-related policies you should know about before booking.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
Most food tours accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Participants should inform the tour operator of any special needs when booking to ensure the appropriate arrangements are made. Many tours can cater to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
Recap
Queenstown offers a variety of food and wine tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quick wine and food sampler or a full-day culinary adventure, there’s an option to suit your needs. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s renowned food and wine scene while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of Central Otago.