A great start to the day. An All Black win in Cardiff against the French set the tone.
Off to The Rees Hotel to pick up Kerry and Carmel to go for our Half Day Wine Tour. The day began with an amazing brunch at The Chop Shop Food Merchants in Arrowtown. This hidden gem offers Asian inspired dishes, something different and exciting for a Sunday morning. The coffee was crucial and perfectly brewed. An atmospheric café with passionate staff and outstanding food.
Back in the Audi Q7 and off to the Gibbston sub region for our first vineyard, Brennan. A small boutique vineyard with a lot to offer. Brennan displays a real love for wine. Extensive lists of whites and reds show their passion for all varieties. Their Pinot Gris and Grigio offers a great comparison to the different styles of production between the Italian and French.
Kinross Cottages was our next stop. This is a new concept for the Gibbston region and one that is happily welcomed. The cellar includes 5 different labels from Gibbston and outer regions. This is a great time to compare some of New Zealand’s top winemakers. Grant Taylor (Valli Wines) and Sir Alan Brady (Wild Irishman). The host was great and with an amazing selection can use the tastes of the clients to finely select the wine that is perfect for them.
The last stop was calling us now, Peregrine Winery. Tracy, the Cellar Door Manager, took care of us in the barrel hall. A private tasting location surrounded by the new Pinot vintage. The Rosé and Chardonnay stood out in the white section. The 2010 Pinot was the winner for the reds. We then explored the production area. Being springtime it was quieter than harvest season. Peregrine is in the top 5 largest wineries in Central Otago. Tracy took us through this process and how this is achieved. Awe-inspiring views across the gorge really showcases what a beautiful setting the vineyard boasts. A perfect location for weddings, conferences and concerts.
We drove back to Queenstown and returned Kerry and Carmel to The Rees Hotel. A day full of laughter and exquisite wine. A great day with great people.
This is our half day Queenstown wine tour. A luxury experience that is one of a kind in New Zealand. If you have any enquiries regarding our private tours tours please do not hesitate to use our contact form and we will get back to you ASAP.
