Why a Local Winemaker Started Hop n Grape Tours
Most wine tours are run by drivers. Cameron started Hop n Grape Tours after five years of working at Mount Riley Wines here in Marlborough.
After leaving the winery, Cameron wanted to keep sharing his wine knowledge with visitors. He also wanted to offer experiences that other tour operators cannot easily provide.
Because Cameron has worked inside a winery, he understands what happens behind the cellar door. That experience continues to shape everything we do.
Our guides are wine-trained specialists. Some hold formal qualifications in winemaking or viticulture. Others bring years of hands-on experience from the wine industry.
As a result, we can take small groups behind the scenes of working wineries. Along the way, we explain what happens in the tanks, barrels and vineyards. You will learn much more than simply what you see on the label.
Recognised for It
Over the years, our guests have recognised our commitment to quality. Hop n Grape has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence consistently since 2016.
In 2020, TripAdvisor named us a Traveller’s Choice Winner. This placed us among the top 10% of attractions worldwide.
Naturally, we are proud of these awards. More importantly, however, our guests’ feedback means even more to us.
Many visitors arrive expecting a standard bus tour. Instead, they leave with a much better understanding of Marlborough wine and the wines they have tasted.
A Full Day, Done Properly
Our Full Day Marlborough Wine Tour visits five wineries. The experience includes tasting fees for around 25 different wines.
Along with the tastings, guests enjoy a proper gourmet lunch at a vineyard restaurant. We also provide free pickup and drop-off around Blenheim and Renwick.
During the day, you will discover internationally recognised wineries alongside smaller, family-run cellar doors. Whenever possible, we also arrange a behind-the-scenes visit to a modern working winery.
This extra access gives you a glimpse into the winemaking process that most visitors never experience on their own.
For those who prefer something more personal, our Private Wine Tours offer complete flexibility.
For example, you might visit a local sheep farm with renowned Marlborough farmer Doug Avery. Alternatively, explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre or focus the day on your favourite wine varieties.
Whatever your interests, we tailor the experience around what you enjoy.
Ready to Experience It Yourself?
If you want a wine tour led by someone who has actually made wine, rather than simply driven a van between cellar doors, Hop n Grape Tours is ready to welcome you.
Choose from our Full Day, Half Day or Private Wine Tours. Along the way, meet local winemakers, explore Marlborough’s famous wine region and discover the stories behind the wines.
So, if you’re ready to experience Marlborough through the eyes of people who know wine from the inside out, book your wine tour with Hop n Grape Tours today.
Had a wonderful half day tour with Darlene our guide. Thoroughly recommend Hop n Grape .. lovely day, fab lunch, really enjoyable variety of tastings with friendly knowledgeable wine operators at every stop. Our fellow Aussie company also made our day … Thankyou to all.
Thanks Marion, pleased to hear you had a wonderful day! Darlene is a fantastic tour guide and has extensive knowledge. Hope to see you in Marlborough again someday. Warm regards, Cameron and the team at Hop n Grape 🍇
Thanks Marion. Hope to see you again sometime soon.