Discovery Tasting and Lunch

A wine lover’s dream in New South Wales: A detailed look at the Rowlee Wines Discovery Tasting and Lunch

If you’re craving a memorable experience that combines exceptional wine, delicious food, and beautiful views, the Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines offers just that. Designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life—whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner—this tour promises a relaxed yet enriching journey through one of Australia’s premier cool-climate wine regions.

What we love about this experience is the way it balances expert-led tastings with a welcoming atmosphere, making everyone feel comfortable while learning about the land and the craft behind the wines. Plus, the included lunch is crafted to complement the wines perfectly, offering a genuine taste of local flavors. The only consideration? With it being a private experience at around $211, it’s best suited for those looking for quality and intimacy rather than a casual day trip.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or wine enthusiasts eager to explore the region’s high-altitude vineyards in style. If you’re after a taste of authentic family wines, stunning scenery, and a chance to enjoy a well-curated meal, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to one of NSW’s top boutique wineries, Rowlee Wines
• Expert-guided tasting of award-winning, cool-climate wines
• Private vineyard tour offering insights into high-altitude winemaking
• Delicious shared set menu lunch paired with Rowlee wines
• All-inclusive experience with alcohol, lunch, and guiding service
• Intimate group size ensures personalized attention
• Flexible dietary accommodations available upon request
• Approximate duration: 3 hours, perfect for a relaxed half-day outing

Introduction to the Rowlee Wines Discovery Experience

For travelers interested in delving into Australia’s cool-climate wines, the Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines offers a genuine taste of the region’s excellence. Set beneath the impressive Mount Canobolas, this family-owned winery has been crafting wines for over 20 years, combining tradition with modern flair.

What makes this tour stand out are two things we particularly appreciate: the personalized guided tasting of award-winning wines and the delicious, well-thought-out lunch that perfectly complements the wines. The intimate setting allows for a deeper understanding of what makes these wines special—high altitude, site-specific grapes, and a careful winemaking process.

A potential consideration is that this experience doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll want to arrange your own travel to and from the venue. It’s best for those who enjoy walking into a scenic vineyard, savoring their wine, and then relaxing over a thoughtfully prepared meal.

This tour suits those seeking an authentic, relaxed wine experience combined with a taste of regional hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to deepen your appreciation for Australian wines, it’s a memorable choice.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting at Rowlee Wines

Your journey begins at 11:00 am at Rowlee Wines on Lake Canobolas Road, Nashdale. The winery’s inviting setting is the perfect starting point for a peaceful exploration of the land. Since the experience is private for your group, you’ll likely start with a warm welcome from knowledgeable guides eager to share their passion.

The Guided Tasting

The core of the experience is the curated tasting of Rowlee’s current release wines. These are high-altitude, cool-climate wines that showcase Australia’s diverse terroir. You’re likely to sample a mix of reds and whites, each offering distinct expressions of the region’s unique vineyard sites.

Guests consistently praise the expertise of the guides. One reviewer shared, “We had a wonderful lunch with accompanying wines. The food was superb and our friendly servers allowed us to set the pace.” This suggests that the tasting isn’t rushed and the guides are attentive, providing insights into how variety, site, and winemaking influence each pour.

Private Vineyard Tour

Although not explicitly detailed, the inclusion of a private vineyard tour indicates you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. Expect to see high-altitude vineyards, learn about the land’s influence, and perhaps get a peek into the family history shaping these wines.

The Lunch Experience

Post-tasting, you’ll settle into a shared set menu lunch at Rowlee Dining and Bar. The reviews highlight the quality of the cuisine—”every single dish was SO good”—with particular praise for the mother dough flatbread with whipped house butter, which one guest called a “gustatory experience.” The lunch is designed to complement the wines, allowing you to savor each sip alongside delicious regional dishes.

Ending the Tour

The experience wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a bottle of Rowlee wine to take home—a perfect souvenir of the day. Since the tour is private, the pace and focus are tailored to your interests, making it ideal for a relaxed, intimate outing.

The Value of the Experience

At a price of approximately $211.59 per group, the tour offers good value when considering the inclusions: expert guidance, exclusive tastings, a full lunch, and a bottle of wine. The reviews underscore the quality of both the wine and the food: “You won’t leave hungry” and “The wines were excellent.”

While the cost might seem high compared to casual tastings, the personalized service, intimate setting, and thoughtfully curated experience justify it for those seeking depth and quality. It’s more than just a tasting; it’s an immersive visit that emphasizes connection—both to the land and the family behind the winery.

The Authenticity and Experience

What makes this tour stand out is the storytelling and personal touch. The family legacy, combined with the land’s influence, shines through in every sip. Guests have noted the friendly guides and the relaxed yet educational atmosphere, creating a memorable and approachable introduction to Australian cool-climate wines.

The stunning views of Mount Canobolas and the vineyard’s scenic setting add to the experience, making it much more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to truly connect with the regional terroir.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance: The experience is popular, typically booked 12 days ahead.
• Arrive on time: The tour starts at 11:00 am; punctuality ensures you get the full experience.
• Dietary restrictions: The winery can accommodate special diets—just mention when booking.
• Transportation: Private transport isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Age restriction: Participants should be 18 or older, as alcohol is involved.
• Duration: Expect about 3 hours of relaxed enjoyment—not rushed.
• Group size: Private, tailored to your group, ensuring personalized attention.

The Sum Up

The Discovery Tasting and Lunch at Rowlee Wines offers a genuine taste of New South Wales’ cool-climate wines in a setting that emphasizes quality, authenticity, and personal connection. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their appreciation for the land and the craft behind each bottle.

The knowledgeable guides, stunning vineyard views, and excellent wines make this experience stand out. The included lunch, paired with award-winning wines, elevates the experience to a memorable culinary journey. While the price may be on the higher side, the intimacy, quality, and authentic storytelling provide great value for travelers seeking a meaningful wine adventure.

If you value expert-guided tastings, scenic beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour deserves a spot on your NSW itinerary. It’s a true reflection of family passion, regional character, and the joy of discovering authentic Australian wines.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, private transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel to and from Rowlee Wines.

What is the price for the experience?
It costs around $211.59 per group (up to 2 people), which covers guided tastings, lunch, and a bottle of wine.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the winery can cater to dietary restrictions—just make sure to specify when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the tastings and meal.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It’s designed to appeal to both newcomers and experienced wine lovers, with guides providing insights suitable for all levels.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate—comfortable but neat, especially since this is a semi-private experience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, participants must be 18 or older due to alcohol regulations.

What makes Rowlee Wines special?
Their high-altitude, cool-climate wines reflect the unique land beneath Mount Canobolas, with a family legacy of over 20 years.

Can I purchase wines to take home?
Yes, you can buy bottles at the cellar door on your way out, which many guests do based on glowing reviews.

This experience offers a well-rounded, authentic look at Australian boutique wines within a friendly, scenic setting. Perfect for those who want to enjoy high-quality wine, good food, and personal stories—all in a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.