Vast open plains and rugged landscapes make Central Otago one of the most scenic wine regions in New Zealand. It's also home to some of the best pinot noir in the world.
Find out more about great wineries and walking and cycling trails in Central Otago.
Hugged by mountains and interlaced with lakes and deep river gorges, the wineries in Central Otago and Lake Wānaka are truly spectacular. Here, the cool climate combined with glacially derived soils, means vineyards produce a highly elegant pinot noir and some quietly impressive white wine varietals and the occasional pink rosé.
Wine production is spread across six sub-regions, which are the Cromwell Basin, Bendigo, Bannockburn, Gibbston, and Alexandra and Wānaka.
Each year, an entire month is dedicated to EAT.TASTE.CENTRAL. This gourmet food and drink event is proudly hosted by Central Otago local cafes, restaurants and cellar doors who create exceptional dishes and pair them with excellent wines. Get your EAT.TASTE.CENTRAL passport online to see which eateries are participating. Next, taste your way through the meal categories at each venue. As established chefs plate-up their new creations, you can vote for your favourites.
The 4 Barrels Walking Wine Trail visits four of Central Otago’s premium wine tasting rooms. Take as long as you like on this self guided walking tour. The perfect way to enjoy local wine and stunning views of Lake Dunstan.
Otago Central Rail Trail is perfect for active-relaxers and wine-lovers. Over 15 wineries are found on the Clyde to Alexandra section of the cycle trail, which is also known as Pedal 4 Pinot. Check out the map of wineries in Alexandra Basin.
