A tour of great taste

The South Island is the drinks destination you didn’t know existed… until now.
Words Lucy Evans

The South Island spirits scene is constantly changing with bucket list distilleries and breweries popping up throughout small towns everywhere. Discover the best of the best, while supporting local businesses and creative start-ups, on a five day tour, flying around the South Island, departing from Auckland, with the choice of flying Auckland return, or flying Blenheim return to Nelson.

Blenheim, Marlborough: Elemental Distillers

Blenheim, the home of great wine and cider, right? Now add gin. Like the wine of the region, the gin is delicious and world-class. Enjoy a tasting and tour at Elemental Distillers. The Roots Dry Gin is worth the visit in itself, as is their range of Elemental Bitters.
With flavours including grapefruit and hops, coffee and pimento, and blackberry and balsamic, don’t expect your normal gin cocktail. Tanked on the world stage for a reason, their bitters have received awards at the Los Angeles International Spirits Competition in 2018 and the London Spirits Competition in 2019.

West Coast: Monteith’s Brewery & The Reefton Distilling Co.

What happens when creative West Coasters get together? Some delicious great tasting drinks!
After flying from Blenheim to Hokitika, refresh the palate with a cold beer and a West Coast lunch at the Monteith’s Brewery. Monteith’s has been brewing its family of fine beers and ciders for near on 150 years, staying true to the authentic process and recipes of the classic styles they re-create.

Inland from Greymouth is the small town of Reefton. Explore a curious mix of funky antique shops, art galleries, a museum to celebrate light and, our favourite little place, the Reefton Distilling Co. The distillery is housed in one of Reefton’s original buildings which has been carefully restored to accommodate the working distillery and tasting bar. The team will provide you with a truly unique West Coast experience as they share the story behind the crafting of their botanical gins, seasonal fruit liqueurs and vodka.

Wānaka: The Cardrona Distillery

Is there a better way to get to your next distillery than by flying through the Southern Alps? We think not!
Within the Cardrona Valley, discover the famous Source gin created by a family owned boutique. The Cardrona Distillery has a reputation for premium artisanal spirits. Tourgoers will also be joined by Wild Diamond, Dancing Sands Distillery and McCashin’s Brewery for meals paired with tastings and spirited discussions.