Set out from Queenstown for a full-day exploration of the vineyards in the Central Otago wine region with the Queenstown Wine Trail tour. This guide gives you everything you need to know for a relaxed yet wine-rich experience — including how to book, what’s included, and how to plan your day with hotel pickup, tastings and scenic stops.
Why go wine tasting in Central Otago?
At a latitude of 45 degrees south, you may be forgiven for thinking that all Queenstown is fit for growing is icicles. But the Central Otago region that surrounds the South Island’s resort town is not-so-quietly gaining a reputation as one of the world’s best niche wine regions.
The odd individual winery in obscure parts of Chile or Argentina may like to argue the toss, but by all realistic measures, Central Otago is the world’s most southerly wine region. The climate means that if you’re looking for a big, beefy shiraz, you can go to a bottle shop and buy one from somewhere else. That sort of grape just isn’t going to survive in these conditions.
Central Otago pinot noir
But some grapes can and – combined with expert winemakers and up-to-date technology – they are being turned into some world class wines.
The key player here is pinot noir, which accounts for nearly 80% of production. The climate and soils suit it perfectly and world wine experts acknowledge the Central Otago pinots as being amongst the best on the planet.
For travellers who prefer the mellow glow to adrenalin shots, taking a few hours out sampling the wares of Central Otago’s wineries is rather idyllic.
Overview of the Queenstown wine trail tour
The Queenstown Wine Trail tour offers a small-group journey into the vineyards of Central Otago — including sub-regions such as Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn and Cromwell. These areas are renowned for their cool-climate wines, especially Pinot Noir, as well as aromatic whites and full-bodied Chardonnays.
Your day starts with hotel pickup in Queenstown and a comfortable minivan ride to each cellar-door. Along the way, the guide will share insights on the region’s geology, climate and how the steep slopes and schist soils contribute to the flavour of the wines.
Expect to visit four boutique wineries, enjoy hosted tastings of premium estate wines, and savour a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant (lunch cost is on you). Some itineraries may include a stop in Old Cromwell for a bit of local history and views.
The full-day tour typically lasts around six to seven hours and is limited to small groups (often eight people) so the pace stays relaxed. Travel between vineyards is kept minimal, leaving more time for tasting and scenery.
Pricing, season and what’s included
When I last checked in October 2025, the Queenstown Wine Trail small group tour cost NZD $239 per person.
The typical inclusions are:
- Return hotel pickup and drop-off in Queenstown or nearby accommodation.
- Professional driver-guide and commentary on the region and wines.
- Visits and tastings at four premium vineyards in Central Otago.
- Time allocated for lunch at a vineyard restaurant (lunch cost extra).
- Bottled water.
How to get there & meet up details
The tour departs from central Queenstown – the Red Rock Café at 48 Camp Street if you’re not being picked up from your accommodation. Your operator will confirm pickup time (often around 10.00 am).
Best times to go & how long the tour lasts
The tour runs year-round, though wine regions’ access may vary with season and weather. For the best light and smaller crowds, midweek departures outside major holiday periods are ideal. Spring and autumn offer great scenery with fewer tourists.
The full day tour takes about 6 to 7 hours including travel, tastings and lunch.
What to bring & tips for the day
- Bring a valid photo ID (you must be 18+ to taste).
- Wear layers — weather can change quickly in Central Otago.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended; vineyards sometimes have uneven surfaces.
- Let the tour operator know of any dietary requirements in advance, especially for lunch.
- Plan to pick up wine purchases from wineries — some offer shipping if you’ll be travelling onward.
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How much does the tour cost? | NZD $239 per person for a full-day small-group wine tour of Central Otago vineyards. |
| Do I need to book in advance? | Yes. Small-group tours are limited (often 8 people) and fill quickly in busy season. |
| Is hotel pickup included? | Yes – pickup and drop-off in Queenstown city or selected hotels is included. |
| Can I taste wines if I’m under 18? | No. You must be 18 or older to participate in tastings. Valid ID is required. |
| What should I wear? | Smart-casual works well — layers recommended. |
Disclosure: This guide contains a booking link. If you book via the link above, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
More New Zealand South Island travel
Other New Zealand South Island travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Visiting the Royal Albatross Colony on the Taiaroa Headland.
- Why you shouldn’t do a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown.
- Six reasons to include Queenstown in your New Zealand travel itinerary.
- Guide to white-water rafting on the Shotover River from Queenstown.
- Practical guide to visiting Puzzling World in Wanaka.
