Adventure brief
Sip & Savour: Local Tastes Tour
Discover Bathurst’s finest handcrafted wines, gins, and craft beers on a half-day journey with BoxGrove Country Retreat. Taste local flavors while taking in the region’s vibrant countryside.
Situated in the rolling hills of Bathurst, New South Wales, BoxGrove Country Retreat offers an immersive half-day journey through an evolving landscape of handcrafted beverages and rural charm. The Sip & Savour: Local Tastes Tour unfolds across the picturesque Bathurst countryside, a region marked by fertile soils and temperate climate ideal for viticulture and distilling. This tour invites visitors to engage directly with three local artisans—boutique wineries, a renowned gin distillery, and a craft brewery—each providing a distinct lens into the area’s flourishing craft beverage scene.
Your day begins at Renzaglia Wines, a family-owned estate known for its meticulous small-batch wines that reflect soil nuances and sustainable practices. Sitting beside vine rows, guests sample varietals while a winemaker offers candid insights into organic growing techniques and the challenges of vineyard stewardship in this historic region. Next, the tour arrives at Grange Gin Distillery, where native botanicals are transformed through innovative distillation into complex gins layered with herbal, floral, and citrus notes.
Engaging with the distiller, guests learn the science behind the craft and enjoy expertly poured gin cocktails that highlight local flavors. The final stop is Reckless Beer Brewing, a bastion of the craft beer revival in Bathurst. Here, a passionate team shares behind-the-scenes knowledge of brewing methods and ingredients.
Tastings include crisp pale ales, hop-forward IPAs, and robust stouts, served in an atmosphere where rustic charm meets contemporary creativity. What distinguishes BoxGrove in the outdoor adventure landscape is its seamless blend of tactile outdoor experiences with authentic regional food and beverage culture. Amid the natural beauty of Bathurst’s countryside, the tour celebrates local craftsmanship and sustainable agriculture, offering a dynamic day-trip for adventurers seeking more than trails—a taste of place that is refreshingly grounded and richly rewarding.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Stay Hydratedessential
Bring water to stay refreshed between tastings, especially on warm days.
- 02Plan Transportationinfo
This tour includes private transport, so coordinate arrival and departure times with BoxGrove to maximize ease.
- 03Bring Cash or Cardinfo
While tastings are included, lunch at Reckless Beer Brewing requires separate payment if desired.
- 04Dress for Comfortessential
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing for getting on and off the vehicle and walking at venues.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes ensure comfort during brief walks between tasting spots.
EssentialSun protection
Sunscreen and a hat protect against sun exposure during outdoor segments.
spring|summer|fallEssentialReusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important given the alcohol tastings and outdoor environment.
EssentialLight jacket
A light jacket helps with cooler mornings and evenings in the countryside.
fall|winter|springLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Renzaglia’s sustainable vineyard practices, Grange’s use of native Australian botanicals
Local fauna
Eastern grey kangaroos, Australian rosellas (colorful parrots)
Historic heritage
Bathurst was established in 1815 as Australia's oldest inland settlement, laying a foundation for rich agricultural traditions.
Mindful exploration
Local producers emphasize sustainable agriculture and water conservation, contributing to biodiversity and reduced environmental footprint.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Vineyards at Renzaglia Wines, Grange Gin botanical garden, Rustic interiors of Reckless Beer Brewing
- Subjects
- Vine rows and trellises, Bottle and glass close-ups, Crafting equipment and natural botanicals
- Best times
- Late morning for bright colors, Golden hour for soft light, Overcast days for diffused shadows
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is lunch included on the tour?
Lunch is not included, though you can purchase meals at Reckless Beer Brewing if the provided cheese plate isn’t enough.
Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, guided tastings at each venue and a cheese plate at one location are included.
What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants must be 18 years or older to join the tour.
Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, private transportation in a comfortable vehicle between locations is included.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Please notify BoxGrove ahead of time so they can arrange suitable options where possible.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Currently, wheelchair accessibility is not supported due to vehicle and venue limitations.