Alpine Wine Tours is a local family business founded by Emma Chisholm.
With nearly 60 years of family connections to Queenstown and the wider Otago region, we offer guests an authentic Kiwi hospitality experience right in their own backyard.
Our passionate team loves guiding visitors along Central Otago’s unique wine trail and sharing their knowledge of this beautiful region and the tourism industry.
Emma Chisholm
Founder & Operations Manager
Emma is the third generation of the Chisholm family in Queenstown’s vibrant tourism industry. Her grandmother arrived in 1966, when Emma’s father was just ten, working on the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship before moving to Skyline Queenstown when the Gondola was first installed. Emma’s father continues to be active in tourism today.
Emma’s passion for wine was ignited by sunny afternoons spent exploring renowned wine regions around the globe, from Tuscany and Porto to the Hunter Valley and Yarra Valley. Here at home, she loves discovering the treasures of Waiheke Island, Waitaki, and of course, Central Otago.
With a WSET Level 2 qualification, Emma is excited to share her wine knowledge and connect with both visitors and locals, ensuring a memorable experience in the region she knows and loves.
Bella
Wine Tour Dog
Meet Bella, Our New Wine Tour Pup!
Introducing Bella, our adorable miniature schnauzer puppy who’s already making her mark on our wine tours!
With her playful spirit, she’s been enjoying her first adventures alongside our guests. Bella has a special fondness for Pinot Noir—so much so that she once tried to sneak a sip from one of our wine enthusiasts!
She loves cuddles and often curls up on guests’ laps, adding a warm and friendly touch to your experience.
With her charming personality and growing enthusiasm, Bella is truly a wine dog in the making. We can’t wait for you to meet her on your next tour!
Ruby
Original Wine Tour Dog
Remembering Ruby, Our Beloved Wine Tour Dog
Ruby, our cherished 10 year old mini x standard schnauzer, was a beloved member of our team who joined us on wine tours.
With her playful spirit, she loved meeting everyone, soaking up cuddles and pats along the way. While posing for photos wasn’t her specialty, she certainly knew how to charm guests with her presence.
Named after the rich hue of a fine red wine, Ruby had a particular fondness for lamb and venison treats.
Although she passed away in July 2024, her joyful spirit and love for our wine tours will always be remembered. She left a pawprint on our hearts, and we’re grateful for the many happy memories she gave us and our guests.