The Sommelier Experience
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- Guided in English
- Instant confirmation
Highlights
Arthur Griffoul, a native of France and adopted son of Marlborough, is one of the top sommeliers in New Zealand so you're in good hands as we start the day. His curated comparative tasting features standout wines from across New Zealand. He highlights the nuances of different regions — from Marlborough to Waipara to Central Otago – to give a deeper understanding of terroir, style, and craftsmanship. The tasting then expands to include his choices of wines from around the world. A leisurely lunch at Saint Clair Family Estate or Allan Scott follows, promising a showcase for the region's fresh ingredients, with each course matched to their wines. We visit another quality winery cellar door in the afternoon tasting the range of the region’s acclaimed wines — from bright, zesty Sauvignon Blanc to elegant Pinot Noir. To cap off the day, enjoy a sweet final stop at Makana boutique chocolate factory, before returning to your accommodation.
Inclusions
What's included
- Snacks and water
- Tasting of award winning wines
- Air-conditioned vehicle
What's not
- Lunch
Itinerary
Saint Clair is one of three locally owned, award-winning wineries featured on the Sommelier Experience. Lunch here showcases local ingredients, matched with Saint Clair's wide range of wines. Marlborough is famous for Sauvignon Blanc, but there's so much more to taste as well. As part of this tour, Sommelier Arthur Griffoul provides insights into terroir and stylistic differences in Marlborough and beyond.
Lunch is either at St Clair or Allan Scott Bistro, both serving the best of local seasonal food accompanied with their boutique wines.
Whitehaven or Nautilus are examples of the cellar door we visit after lunch.
We end your tour on a sweet note, with a visit to this boutique chocolate factory. You'll also find local wine features in some of the delicious creations available for sale.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Know before you go
- Pickup
- Pickup is included for everyone.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Group size
- Up to 10 travellers
- Operated by
- Jade Tours
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it compares in Blenheim
- Its from-price is 24% above the median of the 52 experiences we list in Blenheim.
- Its length is typical for the group.
- The operator lists free cancellation on it.
About Blenheim
Blenheim is the main town of Marlborough, at the top of New Zealand's South Island, among Sauvignon Blanc vineyards and near the Marlborough Sounds.
Blenheim sits on the flat Wairau Plain at the top of the South Island, in the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand's largest wine region. Rows of vines run to the foot of the dry Wither Hills, and the town itself is small and green, with parks such as Pollard Park and Seymour Square and a river walk beside the Taylor.
Top-ranked sights in Blenheim: Marlborough Vineyards, Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.
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