Thyme Hill Vineyard is a charming boutique winery specializing in Merlot, nestled in the picturesque Central Otago region of New Zealand. Founded in the mid-nineties by the late John Kelly, an adventurous entrepreneur, this vineyard is located just a few kilometers from Alexandra Township. John Kelly was a pioneer, being the first to cultivate Merlot grapes in this unique area.

Stunning Vineyard Setting

Spanning 6 hectares, Thyme Hill Vineyard boasts breathtaking views of Leaning Rock and the Dunstan Range, thanks to its north-facing slopes. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the distinctive purple thyme and striking schist rocky outcrops that define Alexandra. Committed to sustainability, Thyme Hill Vineyard participates in Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ), a certification that highlights vineyards adhering to top environmental practices. The vineyard's stewardship aims to enhance the land for future generations.

Commitment to Sustainable Practices

Thyme Hill Vineyard has set an ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Key initiatives include eliminating waste sent to landfills, obtaining carbon certification, and maintaining a careful water budget while monitoring resource usage, such as fuel. The vineyard also focuses on increasing biodiversity by planting inter-row crops and native trees along the margins of their land.

Additionally, the winery is actively seeking ways to reduce herbicide use and minimize sprays in the vineyard, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainable wine production.

Experiences to book at Thyme Hill Vineyard

Top reviews

Jeroen Degen
January 3, 2024
Today there is a beautiful and educational tasting of Merlot wines (unique in Central Otago!). Very nice and recommended. The last steep part uphill was more than worth it! 😀
Kari Sheat
February 18, 2023
Had a lovely time this morning wine tasting at this vineyard. Recommend especially for the merlot drinkers out there....this is their big point of difference in the Central Otago wine region. The rose compares very well to other local roses, too.
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Location

Location Alexandra, Otago, New Zealand

Region

Cromwell Basin, Central Otago, New Zealand

Spoken Languages

Services

Reduced Mobility Access
Parking

Visiting Hours

Monday - Sunday
02:00 - 05:00

Wine types

Red Wine
Rose Wine

Grape varieties

Merlot

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What our community thinks about Thyme Hill Vineyard

Check out verified reviews from visitors who've enjoyed their time at Thyme Hill Vineyard.

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Reviews (6)

Lucie Benešová
Reviewed on January 27, 2025

We had such a lovely afternoon with Inge, enjoying a wine tasting that was both educational and memorable. This tasting was different from what we're used to, which was really nice. Inge was with us the whole time, which made it feel like an intimate event. We enjoyed the experience and learned a lot. The wines were outstanding (especially Merlot 2019), and we can't wait to taste the wine we bought again. If you're ever in the area, you should definitely stop by for a tasting—you won't be disappointed!

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Jeroen Degen
Reviewed on January 3, 2024

Today there is a beautiful and educational tasting of Merlot wines (unique in Central Otago!). Very nice and recommended. The last steep part uphill was more than worth it! 😀

Review provided by Google

sarah strachan
Reviewed on February 24, 2023

We visited Inge at her rustic vineyard today and were delighted to taste her delicious wines and meet her gorgeous kelpie pup, Stoney. The merlot was amazing ad the Rose was the most unique and delicious I have tasted in a long while. I couldn't resist buying a few bottles, even though i didn't have the room in my suitcase. Thank you for the tasting, Inge. Was lovely to meet you!

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Kari Sheat
Reviewed on February 18, 2023

Had a lovely time this morning wine tasting at this vineyard. Recommend especially for the merlot drinkers out there....this is their big point of difference in the Central Otago wine region. The rose compares very well to other local roses, too.

Review provided by Google

Benn Dickie
Reviewed on April 19, 2022

We had a lovely late afternoon wine tasting, Inge was a wonderful host. Would highly recommend, relaxed setting with a vineyard view. Will return next time we are in Alexandra!

Review provided by Google

Frequently Asked Questions about Thyme Hill Vineyard

Where is Thyme Hill Vineyard located?

Thyme Hill Vineyard is located in Cromwell Basin, New Zealand

What type of wines does Thyme Hill Vineyard produce?

Thyme Hill Vineyard produces Red Wine, Rose Wine.

What grape varieties do they plant at Thyme Hill Vineyard?

At Thyme Hill Vineyard, they cultivate Merlot.

What languages do they speak at the Thyme Hill Vineyard?

At Thyme Hill Vineyard they speak Dutch, English.

Do they produce organic wines at Thyme Hill Vineyard?

No, Thyme Hill Vineyard is not an organic wine producer.