Queenstown: Gibbston Valley Wine Cave & Amisfield Tasting Tour

Summary

Central Otago vineyards, wine cave tour, small group tastings

You’ll step inside New Zealand’s largest wine cave at Gibbston Valley before tasting Central Otago wines at boutique vineyards like Kinross and Amisfield. With a local guide leading your small group, you’ll meet locals (and maybe Bella the wine dog), enjoy lunch in a vineyard garden, and soak up scenery that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I knew what to expect from a Queenstown wine tour, but the first thing that hit me was the cool, earthy smell inside the Gibbston Valley wine cave. Our guide, Matt, flicked on his torch and grinned—he’d clearly done this walk a hundred times but still seemed genuinely excited to show us the rows of barrels tucked into the rock. I ran my hand along the damp stone wall (probably not supposed to do that) and tried to imagine what it was like when they first started making wine here back in the ’80s. The Pinot Noir tasted different down there—maybe it was just the cave talking.

Afterwards we piled back into the van—Mercedes, so yeah, pretty comfy—and Matt told stories about old winemakers and how Central Otago ended up famous for its reds. At Kinross, we tasted through bottles from different producers—Valli, Hawkshead, Wild Irishman—each one had its own little story. Lunch was on our own dime but honestly worth it; I sat outside in their garden with a pizza and watched a couple of locals argue (gently) about rugby scores over rosé. Bella the wine dog wandered by for a scratch behind the ears. It felt easygoing in that way New Zealand does so well.

Last stop was Amisfield—the place looks like it’s made out of mountains and glass. The tasting room had these huge windows facing Lake Hayes; light bouncing off everything. I tried to pronounce “Pinot Gris” in my best Kiwi accent (failed spectacularly). The staff didn’t mind—they just laughed and poured another glass. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home pouring supermarket wine. If you’re into good company and real stories more than just ticking boxes, this day trip from Queenstown is hard to beat.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boutique wine tour in Gibbston Valley

• Drive through Gibbston Valley
• Guided tour of Gibbston Valley wine cave
• Tasting at Gibbston Valley Wines
• Wine tasting at Kinross winery
• Lunch at Kinross winery bistro or garden
• Final wine tasting at Amisfield Winery

Top questions

How many wineries are visited on this Queenstown wine tour?

The tour visits three boutique wineries: Gibbston Valley Wines, Kinross, and either Amisfield or another rotating winery such as Rockburn or Brennan.

Is lunch included in the Queenstown wine cave tour?

Lunch is not included; you can purchase lunch at Kinross’s bistro or garden during the tour.

What’s special about Gibbston Valley Winery?

Gibbston Valley Winery is home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave and was one of Central Otago’s founding wineries.

How many people are on each tour?

The Queenstown wine tour is limited to 10 guests per group for a more personal experience.

Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

The minimum drinking age is 18 years old; this is an adults-only experience.

Is transportation provided during the day trip from Queenstown?

Yes, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter van with pickup included.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?

The focus is on wine tasting; non-drinkers may attend but should note all stops are wineries.

Will there be a local guide on this private wine tour in Queenstown?

Yes, every group has a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter, guided commentary from a local expert, entry and tastings at three boutique wineries—including an exclusive Gibbston Valley wine cave tour—and plenty of time to relax over lunch at Kinross before heading back to Queenstown together.