Central Otago and Wānaka are known for alpine scenery, cellar doors and distinctive pinot noir. Visit wineries around Bannockburn, Gibbston, Cromwell, Alexandra and Wānaka, or explore the region by bike.
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 is produced across six sub-regions of Central Otago: Cromwell Basin, Bannockburn, Gibbston, Alexandra, Wānaka, and Bendigo(opens in new window).
Central Otago and Wānaka have a mix of established estates, small family-run producers and appointment-only tasting rooms. Opening days and tasting arrangements vary, so check directly with each winery before visiting.
Carrick Winery, Bannockburn
Taste certified-organic wines at a vineyard overlooking the Bannockburn landscape. Carrick is known for Pinot Noir and offers food alongside its cellar-door experience.
Cloudy Bay Shed, Cromwell
Cloudy Bay’s Central Otago cellar door offers tastings from its wider wine range in a relaxed vineyard setting near Cromwell.
Mt Difficulty, Bannockburn
Visit one of Bannockburn’s established wine producers for Central Otago Pinot Noir, vineyard views and seasonal dining.
Maude Wines, Wānaka
Maude Wines(opens in new window) is a family-owned producer near central Wānaka, where you can enjoy guided tastings, wine by the glass and light meals.
Rippon, Wānaka
Set above Lake Wānaka, Rippon combines biodynamic wine production with expansive lake and mountain views. Check tasting availability before visiting.
Cycling is a scenic way to explore parts of Central Otago’s wine country, but distances, trail difficulty and cellar-door access vary.
From Cromwell, riders can connect with routes towards Bannockburn and nearby vineyards. The Lake Dunstan Trail also passes through dramatic landscapes between Cromwell and Clyde, although some sections require suitable equipment and cycling experience.
Around Alexandra and Clyde, local cycling routes provide access to vineyards and cellar doors near the Otago Central Rail Trail. Check trail conditions, winery opening hours and booking requirements before setting out.
Use a guided cycling tour, arrange wine collection where available and plan a safe return journey if you intend to drink alcohol.
Getting around
Central Otago’s wine areas are spread across a wide region. Self-driving offers flexibility for visitors with a designated driver who will not be drinking. Those planning to taste wine should book a guided tour or arrange other transport. Tours commonly depart from Queenstown, Wānaka and Cromwell.
Book ahead
Many wineries are small, and some cellar doors open only on selected days or by appointment. Check opening hours and book tastings or meals directly with each winery.
Best time to visit
Cellar doors operate throughout much of the year, but opening times may be reduced in winter. Summer and autumn bring warm days and busy travel periods, while autumn also adds changing vineyard colours.
Before you go
Allow enough travel time between wine areas, appoint a sober driver and avoid relying on taxis or rideshare services in remote locations. Check identification requirements and individual winery policies before visiting.
