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Tim C

Tim C

Wanaka Cruises are the experts on locally grown and produced wines of the Wanaka region. Join our...

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Map Of Central Otago Wineries

How to Reach Wineries in Central Otago

Wineries in Central Otago are easily accessible by different means of transportation.

By Air

Queenstown is a good starting point for your visit to wineries in Central Otago. There are several flights in a day between Wellington and Queenstown. Flights are the simplest and easiest way to get there as it is the perfect choice for travelers with limited time. The duration of the flight is 1 hour 30 minutes.

By Car

It is easily accessible to get to wineries in Central Otago by car from Queenstown, which is a 1-hour road.
However, if your travel starts from Wellington there is a possibility too. It might take a couple of days to get from the capital city, as Wellington is separated from the South Island by the Cook Strait. To drive to Queenstown you'll first need to take the ferry to Picton, at the top of the South Island. Drive from Picton down the east coast, past Kaikoura and Christchurch, and then inland, past Twizel and Tekapo in the Mount Cook district, finally to Queenstown.

Looking for a more specific destination?

Read More about Central Otago

Everything you need to know before you visit wineries in Central Otago

Central Otago in New Zealand is home to picturesque scenery and elegant Pinot Noir. It is the southernmost wine-growing region in the world and the only truly "continental" region of the country. Best Wineries in Central Otago are ready to impress you with highly-selected wines sprawled in six winemaking sub-regions such as Cromwell Bason, Wanaka, Alexandra, Bendigo, Bannockburn, and Gibbston. Each of the wine sub-regions has unique and attractive wine styles and history that reveal a lot about this part of the South Island.

Are you searching for tips or advice on wineries and vineyards to visit during your holiday to Central Otago? We have provided a list of the best wineries in Central Otago open for visitors with direct booking options through our website. At WineTourism.com, we are available to answer any questions and help guide you towards the best fit when planning your wine region experience in Central Otago. We hope you will discover what makes the region special and enjoy your exploration of the unforgettable Central Otago!

The best season to visit wineries in Central Otago

Every season here brings with it a new series of changes: vibrant blossom-filled spring, glorious summer, golden glowed autumn, and icy winter. However, summer and autumn are the seasons for full-on outdoor living and fun. It's the ideal time to try anything from the vast valley floors to the rock tor skyline, and of course, visit wineries in Central Otago.

What are the wineries in Central Otago like?

Wineries in Central Otago bring together the best of the old and new worlds of winemaking. There are mostly family-owned wineries, as well as boutique wineries with their unique style of winemaking. Almost all of them run sustainable vineyards, showing respect for the surrounding nature.

The most common grape varieties and styles of wines produced in Central Otago

Pinot Noir is a symbol of Central Otago and makes up almost three-quarters of the vineyards. This red variety gets a rich bouquet and a strong structure of tannins. But the region also makes bright and aromatic wines from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. 
The most common grape varieties in Central Otago
Red Varieties: Pinot Noir
White Varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling

Language tips for visiting wineries in Central Otago

English is the predominant language spoken in New Zealand. However, the Māori language of Indigenous  Māori people is also an official language of the country.
We put together some of  Māori words you might find useful while visiting wineries in Central Otago:

EnglishMāori 
WineWāina
WineryWiniiti
VineyardMāra wāina
Cheers!Harikoa!

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors

What do wineries in Central Otago offer?

There are numerous facilities provided by wineries in Central Otago. All of them have reduced mobility access, while most of them offer restaurant services. If you plan to stay on the territory of the winery, then there are several wineries with hotels as well.

Are you interested in
reading more about Central Otago?

Read our travel guide to the Central Otago wine region, or discover our very selection of wine tastings and tours in Central Otago.

If you are looking for organized tours, check out our list of expert wine tour guides.