Wine Tasting

Wānaka might be better known for its lake and mountains, but its wine scene is a quietly thrilling surprise. Tucked into the Upper Clutha Valley, a handful of boutique vineyards and cellar doors are producing cool-climate Pinot Noir, aromatic whites, and even méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines. The setting is spectacular — think tasting a crisp Riesling while gazing across rows of vines to snow-dusted peaks.

Highlights & What to See

• Rippon Vineyard — Perched above Lake Wānaka, this biodynamic estate offers arguably the most photogenic tasting room in New Zealand. Their Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer are standouts.
• Māori Point — A tiny family-run winery with a warm welcome, known for its rich Pinot Noir and a lovely outdoor terrace overlooking the vines.
• Mt Difficulty Wines — Though based in Bannockburn, they have a cellar door in Wānaka where you can sample their acclaimed Pinot Noir and aromatic whites.
• Wānaka Wine Trail — Pick up a map from the i-SITE and self-drive to 5–6 cellar doors on the outskirts of town; most are within a 20-minute drive of each other.
• Wine & Food Pairing Experiences — Several vineyards offer platters of local cheese, charcuterie, and Central Otago salmon to accompany tastings.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day to explore the wine trail — start mid-morning and you can comfortably visit three to four cellar doors with plenty of time for leisurely tastings and lunch at one of the vineyard cafés. If you're short on time, focus on Rippon and one other winery; you can be done in two hours. Wine lovers may want a full day to linger and also take in the scenery.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Roys Peak — A challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps; best done on a separate day from wine tasting.
• That Wānaka Tree — The famous lone willow in the lake, a short walk from town and perfect for a post-tasting stroll.
• Bannockburn & Cromwell — Just over the Crown Range, these areas are the heart of Central Otago wine country, with dozens of cellar doors and historic gold-mining sites.
• Gibbston Valley — A scenic drive away, this sub-region is famous for its Pinot Noir and the Gibbston Valley Winery & Cheese.
• Queenstown — An hour's drive south, offering more wineries, adventure activities, and a lively dining scene.

Please check official sources for current details.