Renowned all around the world, Central Otago is home to some of the best vineyards in New Zealand.

As there are over 200 in the Central Otago region alone, we’ve decided to compile a list of the best wineries in Queenstown.  It’s unlikely you will make it to all 200, so this should make choosing a little easier.

The Central Otago region has a climate that results in hot summers and extremely cold winters.  This climate, combined with varying altitudes and mineral-rich soil creates the perfect location for growing some of the best grapes in the world.

One grape varietal in particular, is more coveted and sought after than the others in this region.  That is the Central Otago Pinot Noir. Make your way through the list of wineries below and you will quickly understand why this is the case, but don’t forget to try all the other varietals this region has on offer.

Despite having some of the best Pinot Noirs in the world, the region is also home to some amazing white wines such as Rieslings, Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays, and other red wine varietals.

Possibly the best part about the vineyards in Queenstown is the stunning backdrop on offer from every single vineyard.  Expect views of Lake Wanaka, Shotover River, and towering mountains wherever you choose to go.

  1. Chard Farm Winery

Gibbston Valley, 205 Chard Road

Cost: Free (donation to charity or purchase is recommended)

  1. Rippon Winery

Wanaka, 246 Wanaka – Mount Aspiring Road

Cost: Free (donation to charity or purchase is recommended)

  1. Gibbston Valley Winery

1820 State Highway 6, Queenstown

Cost: Range from $5 to $20

  1. Peregrine Wines

Gibbston Valley, 2127 Gibbston Highway

Cost: Free

  1. Amisfield Winery Queenstown

Lake Hayes, 10 Lake Hayes Road

Cost: $10 (free if you purchase a bottle of wine)

  1. Akarua Winery

Bannockburn, 265 Arrowtown – Lake Hayes Road

Cost: Free

  1. Mt Difficulty Winery

Bannockburn, 73 Felton Road

Cost: $2

  1. Wet Jacket Wines

Bannockburn, 306 Felton Road

Cost: $5 (or free if you purchase a bottle)

  1. Kinross Cellar Door

2300 Gibbston Valley, Queenstown

Cost: $15 (or free if you purchase a bottle)

 

Article via Our Travel Mix