Martinborough, a picturesque wine region in New Zealand, beckons with its charming boutique wineries renowned for exceptional pinot noirs. This full-day guided tour offers a chance to take in the area’s winemaking traditions and savor the flavors that have made it a sought-after destination. From behind-the-scenes winery visits to leisurely vineyard strolls and a two-course lunch featuring regional cuisine, the experience promises to delight the senses. But the true allure lies in the insights shared by a knowledgeable local expert, whose guidance unveils the intricate tapestry of this captivating wine region. What unfolds next is a journey that promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palate.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Martinborough.
Key Points
- This full-day guided tour in Martinborough provides an immersive experience at boutique wineries, renowned for exceptional pinot noirs.
- The tour includes behind-the-scenes winery access, an olive grove visit, and a two-course lunch with a glass of wine.
- Knowledgeable local guides offer insights into the winemaking process and facilitate wine tastings at each cellar door.
- Convenient pickups from hotels or the train station are included, along with all wine tastings.
- The tour is designed to maximize convenience, with a seamless start at 10:00 am and a flexible pickup option.
Tour Overview
The Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour is a guided, full-day experience that offers visitors a chance to explore the region’s renowned boutique wineries, particularly known for their exceptional pinot noirs.
With over 90 reviews and a 5.0 rating, the tour provides behind-the-scenes winery access, an olive grove visit, and a two-course lunch at a local winery restaurant.
Guests can expect to learn about the winemaking process, sample a variety of wines, and gain insider tips from the knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes hotel or train station pickup and drop-off, as well as all tastings, tours, and a glass of wine with lunch.
It’s an immersive and comprehensive way to discover the best of Martinborough’s vibrant wine scene.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Martinborough
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s Itinerary Highlights commence with a morning vineyard tour, where guests can stroll through the grapevines and learn about the winemaking process firsthand.
Visitors then enjoy a two-course lunch at a local winery restaurant, accompanied by a glass of wine.
Throughout the day, they’ll have the opportunity to participate in wine tastings at each cellar door, gaining insights into the region’s renowned pinot noirs and other varietals.
Complementing the wine experience, the tour also includes an olive grove visit with an oil tasting, providing a well-rounded exploration of Martinborough’s agricultural offerings.
The knowledgeable local guide ensures guests receive tips and information to enhance their understanding of the wineries and wines.
Inclusions
The tour includes hotel or train station pickup and drop-off, allowing for convenient transportation to and from the experience.
Visitors can look forward to a range of inclusions, such as wine tastings at each cellar door, a guided tour through the vineyard to learn about winemaking, and a two-course lunch at a local winery restaurant accompanied by a glass of wine.
Plus, the tour incorporates an olive grove visit with an oil tasting, broadening the exploration of Martinborough’s agricultural offerings.
Complementing these experiences, the tour provides coffee or tea, as well as gratuities, ensuring a seamless and inclusive day.
For guests requiring pickup from Greytown, Carterton, or Masterton, an additional $20 fee applies.
The tour includes:
-
Wine tastings at each cellar door
-
Guided vineyard tour and winemaking education
-
Two-course lunch with a glass of wine
Pickup Information
Pickup services are available from Martinborough, Greytown, Featherston, and Featherston station for Wellington guests.
Guests requiring pickups from further locations should contact the tour operator in advance.
Tours commence at 10:00 am. This ensures a seamless start to the day’s activities.
The pickup service is designed to maximize convenience for all participants, allowing them to focus on the enjoyment of the wine tasting experience.
With hotel and train station pickups available, guests can easily access the tour from various locations.
This thoughtful service contributes to the overall positive experience, setting the tone for a memorable day exploring the renowned wineries of Martinborough.
Winery Experiences
Guests on the Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour can expect an intimate behind-the-scenes winery experience, strolling through lush vineyards and learning the intricacies of winemaking directly from local experts.
The tour includes:
-
A guided vineyard walk, where you’ll learn about the region’s unique terroir and the art of grape growing.
-
Exclusive access to the winery, where you’ll witness the winemaking process, from fermentation to barrel aging.
-
Informative tastings at each cellar door, allowing you to sample the renowned Martinborough Pinot Noirs and other locally-produced wines.
These immersive winery experiences provide a deeper appreciation for the craft of winemaking and the passion of the region’s vintners.
Lunch and Dining
A highlight of the Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour is the included two-course lunch at a local winery restaurant, where guests can savor regional cuisine paired expertly with the area’s renowned wines.
The menu showcases the area’s fresh, seasonal produce, with dishes that might include locally-sourced meats, seasonal vegetables, and homemade breads.
Guests can expect a relaxing dining experience, complete with a glass of wine from the winery’s cellars.
The knowledgeable guide provides recommendations on wine pairings, ensuring guests make the most of the flavorful, locally-inspired meal.
With sweeping views of the vineyards, the winery restaurant offers the perfect setting to recharge and enjoy the flavors of Martinborough.
Olive Grove Tour
As part of the comprehensive Martinborough Wine Tasting Tour, visitors also embark on an intriguing olive grove tour, where they’ve the opportunity to learn about the area’s thriving olive oil industry.
During this informative excursion, guests can expect to:
-
Stroll through the serene olive groves, admiring the lush, verdant trees and gaining insights into the cultivation and harvesting processes.
-
Participate in an engaging olive oil tasting, where they can savor the unique flavors and aromas of the locally produced oils, learning to discern the nuances that contribute to their quality.
-
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of olive oil production in the Martinborough region, which has become renowned for its exceptional extra virgin olive oils.
This olive grove tour seamlessly complements the wine tasting experience, offering a well-rounded exploration of the local culinary delights.
Additional Details
The tour operator offers flexible pickup options, allowing guests to board the tour from Martinborough, Greytown, Featherston, or Featherston station for Wellington-based travelers. They also accommodate pickups from Greytown, Carterton, or Masterton for an additional $20 fee.
The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, and confirmations are provided within 48 hours, subject to availability. The experience is wheelchair accessible and welcomes travelers aged 18 and above, with a minimum of 2 people per booking and a maximum of 11 travelers.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and are encouraged to inform the operator of any dietary or mobility requirements at the time of booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. The inclusions cover all meals, wine tastings, and refreshments during the guided experience. Guests should refrain from bringing outside items to ensure they fully enjoy the provided offerings.
Is There a Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
There is no formal dress code, but comfortable, casual attire is recommended for wine tasting tours. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through vineyards and wineries during the experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?
The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts or special offers. Prices are fixed, but they may provide a lowest price guarantee to ensure customers get the best available rate. Travelers should check the tour website or contact the operator for the latest information.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Activities to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can often be customized to individual preferences. Guests can typically request modifications to the itinerary and activities, such as adding or removing certain winery visits or dining options, within the overall tour framework. Additional fees may apply for customizations.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Types or Quantities of Wine That Can Be Purchased?
There are no explicit restrictions on the types or quantities of wine that can be purchased during the tour, though travelers should be mindful of any luggage or transport limitations. Purchases are at the discretion and responsibility of each individual.
Recap
Enjoy the charming wine region of Martinborough with this guided tour.
Explore boutique wineries renowned for exceptional pinot noirs, discover the art of winemaking, savor a delectable two-course lunch, and explore the world of olive production.
Led by a knowledgeable local expert, this comprehensive experience ensures an enriching and seamless culinary adventure in this picturesque destination.