Queenstown is widely known as a world-class wine destination and many make the trip here for that reason alone. There are over 200 wineries just in the central Otago region within a 20 minute drive, which is bound to keep you busy for a few days at least.

Central Otago consists of six sub-regions; Gibbston, Cromwell/Pisa/Lowburn, Bannockburn, Bendigo, Wanaka and Alexandra, all producing world-class wines.In our Part 1 article we looked at the Gibbston Valley winery region and the different wineries available with open cellar doors for you to visit. In this article, part two, we’ll look at the different winery tours available to you in these regions. There are plenty to choose from and any one of them will be sure to impress.

Wine and Culture Tour

This tour is designed for wine lovers who enjoy good food, great company, and of course - great wine. This tour starts at 12.30pm and picks you up from your Queenstown apartments accommodation – a later start for those who enjoy a nice sleep in! Your guide will then escort you to three world-class wineries in the region, before stopping off for an a la carte lunch at one of the vineyards. On this tour you’ll enjoy an informative guide into Skippers Canyon where you’ll take on some of the deep history of the region, all the while of course enjoying some of the world’s best wines.

Private Twilight Wine Tour

For something a little different, why not treat yourself to a Private Twilight Food and Wine Tour. The trip departs at 3pm in the afternoon and will have you back at your Queenstown Accommodation by 9pm. This indulgent tour has been designed so you can enjoy some of the best picks of wines in the region, followed by a sumptuous dinner at the Amisfield Bistro. Of course, all the while you will be soaking in the spectacular alpine scenery as you relax and enjoy your 5-star excursion. The tour includes tasting at three wineries, dinner at an award winning bistro, a complimentary glass of wine with dinner and spectacular sightseeing along the way.

Exclusive Heli Wine Flight

Not for the faint of heart – this is the wine tour for extremists. On this exclusive helicopter tour you’ll enjoy spectacular flights over the Gibbston Valley as you make your way from Queenstown towards Bannockburn. Your tour of the regions wineries will be from a birds eye view – a once in a lifetime experience you won’t soon forget. You’re first landing will be at Mt Difficulty restaurant to enjoy a luxurious lunch paired with award winning Queenstown wines. This 3 hour trip is one of the wildest tours on offer and is sure to get your blood pumping.

Winery Tours by Bike

If you’re someone with a great sense of fun and adventure, why not book yourself in for Cycle de Vine – a tour of wineries by bike! Rest assured you don’t need to be an athlete to take parts in these tours, a bit of peddling is involved but it’s leisurely paced so everyone can take part. The tour begins with a drive 20 minutes to Gibbston Valley, where you’ll jump onto your bikes and begin your tour. You’ll begin on the Gibbston back roads, checking out some of the eclectic wineries and end up on a spectacular river trail riding above the mighty Kawarau River. You’re knowledgeable guide will be with you the whole way, ensuring you get the most out if this adventurous wine tour.