If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown, there’s one experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss — wine tasting in the Central Otago region. Whether you’re into rich Pinot Noirs or scenic vineyard views, the Queenstown wineries scene delivers big time. This guide takes you deep into the best wineries in Queenstown, with a focus on the Gibbston Valley, Central Otago vineyards, and hidden gems you won’t find on every tourist brochure.
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Table of Contents
Why Central Otago Is One of New Zealand’s Top Wine Regions
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most celebrated wines, and Central Otago stands out with its high-altitude vineyards, cool climate, and small-batch producers that focus on quality over quantity. These aren’t just some of the best Queenstown wineries, these are some of the best wineries in all of New Zealand.
I spent an entire month in the Queenstown area, and visited all of these wineries over the span of that time. I’ve also included tips for getting around, where to stay, when to visit, and which varietals to try while you’re sipping your way through this spectacular wine region.
Queenstown wineries aren’t just about tasting great wine — they’re about the whole experience. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for a month like I did, exploring the Queenstown wine region should be high on your list.
How to Get to the Wineries (Car Rental vs. Organized Tour)
When it comes to exploring the Queenstown wineries, Gibbston Valley, and the Central Otago wine region, there are three main ways to get around: rent a car, join an organized wine tour, or — if the weather’s in your favor — bike the wine trail. Each option suits a different travel vibe.
Self-Drive: Ultimate Flexibility
Renting a car gives you total control over your schedule and the freedom to explore beyond the main wine trail. It’s a great choice if you’re staying nearby in Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, or Gibbston.
- Drive Time: 25 minutes from Queenstown to Gibbston Valley
- Pros:
- Set your own pace
- Stop for spontaneous photo ops or detours
- Great for slow travel and avoiding group tours
- Cons:
- Someone has to stay sober (or spit tastings)
- Parking can be tight at popular wineries during peak times
- Gravel roads to places like Chard Farm require cautious driving
Pro Tip: Pair a light lunch with your tastings to stretch out your time and make it more enjoyable for your driver. Some wineries also serve coffee and non-alcoholic drinks if someone’s skipping the wine.
Rent a car in Queenstown here!
Organized Queenstown Winery Tours: Stress-Free and Social
If you’d rather not worry about driving or logistics, an organized wine tour is a solid alternative. Most tours include hotel pickup, multiple winery stops, and often a guided tasting experience at each one.
- Pros:
- No need for a designated driver
- Learn more about the region through a guide
- Often includes food pairings or wine cave tours
- Great for solo travelers or those wanting to meet others
- Cons:
- Less flexibility — you’re on someone else’s schedule
- Can feel a bit rushed if you prefer slow travel
- Not all tours go off the beaten path
Pro Tip: Choose a small-group or boutique-style tour for a more relaxed and intimate experience. You’ll get better access to cellar doors and more time to chat with staff or winemakers.
Bonus: Bike the Gibbston Valley Wine Trail
On a sunny day, biking the wine trail is hands-down one of the most scenic ways to experience the region. You can rent a bike (or e-bike) in Queenstown or Arrowtown and cruise along the Gibbston River Trail, which links several wineries along the Kawarau River.
- Pros:
- Incredibly scenic and memorable
- Good balance of activity and indulgence
- Perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends or a partner
- Cons:
- Not ideal in bad weather
- Still requires moderation with wine (e-bike or not)
- Some short hill climbs and gravel sections — not all wineries are bike-friendly
Pro Tip: Rent an e-bike to make it easier to ride your bike after you’ve had a few glasses of wine.
Learn more about biking the Gibbston Valley Wine Trail here!
Best Queenstown Wineries in Central Otago & Gibbston Valley
Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a die-hard enthusiast, these are the best Queenstown wineries and cellar doors I loved most. Some offer world-class tastings, others serve incredible food, and a few are just great spots to sit back with a glass and soak in the Otago sun.
1. Chard Farm Winery
If you’re looking for charm and character, Chard Farm is a must. This winery is perched dramatically above the Kawarau River, and the drive there (down a narrow gravel road) makes you feel like you’re discovering a secret. Their Pinot Noir is outstanding — rich, earthy, and exactly what Central Otago does best. It’s definitely my pick for the top spot for the best Queenstown Wineries.
Don’t Miss: The Vintner’s Reserve Pinot Noir.
Tasting: By appointment recommended.
2. Mt. Rosa Wines
Tucked into the Gibbston Valley, Mt. Rosa is laid-back and unpretentious. The converted woolshed tasting room is cozy, and the staff were some of the friendliest I met. I stayed way longer than planned. It’s the most laid back feeling place on this Queenstown wineries list. They also have fantastic food!
Try: Their Pinot Gris or the mulled wine if you’re visiting in winter.
Vibe: Rustic, welcoming, great for slow afternoons.
3. Ayrburn
Not your traditional vineyard stop — Ayrburn is a recently developed destination that blends food, wine, and design into one stylish experience. It’s definitely a splurge but perfect for a luxe afternoon. This is the newest addition to my Queenstown wineries list, just opening last year. This place is not just a winery, it is basically an entire resort.
What to Expect: Wine tasting bars, fine dining, boutique shops, and a scenic location.
Good For: A full afternoon of eating, drinking, and relaxing.
4. Gibbston Valley Winery & Restaurant
This is one of the most well-known Gibbston Valley wineries — and for good reason. They offer daily tours, tastings, a cheese shop, and even a wine cave you can explore. The restaurant serves seasonal dishes paired perfectly with their wines.
Top Pick: The Gold River Pinot Noir or Reserve Chardonnay.
Bonus: Bike the Gibbston River Trail and finish here.
5. Gibbston Tavern
Okay, not technically a winery, but this rustic tavern is a local favorite for casual drinks and wood-fired pizzas after a long day of tastings. It’s got a real community feel and often hosts live music.
Perfect For: Relaxing post-wine tour atmosphere with hearty food.
Wine List: Local wines on tap and by the bottle.
6. Kinross Winery
Kinross is a hub for several boutique wine producers — including Coal Pit, Hawkshead, and Valli. You get to sample a range of small-batch Otago wines all in one place. They also have accommodation, so it’s a solid base for exploring the region.
Recommended: Book a tasting flight to experience multiple labels.
Bonus: Vineyard cottages for overnight stays.
7. Peregrine Wines
Architecturally stunning and consistently top-tier, Peregrine’s cellar door is worth visiting even if you’re just snapping a few photos. They’re deeply involved in conservation too, which aligns well with responsible travel.
Wines to Try: Pinot Noir and Riesling.
Sustainability: Certified organic.
8. Mora Wines & Artisan Kitchen
Modern, sleek, and food-focused, Mora offers one of the best Queenstown wine tasting and lunch experiences. Their kitchen is led by top chefs and the wine pairings are spot-on.
Go For: A long lunch with tasting menu and wine pairings.
Ideal For: Foodies and romantic getaways.
9. Amisfield Restaurant and Cellar Door
A long-standing favorite among locals and visitors alike. The Amisfield winery lunch is iconic — book the “Trust the Chef” tasting menu and settle in. The wines, especially their Pinot Noir and aromatic whites, are top shelf.
Reservation: Essential — book well ahead.
Good To Know: Celebrities stop by here often when in town.
Where to Stay in the Central Otago Region for Wine Tastings
One of the best ways to experience the Queenstown wineries and Gibbston Valley wine trail is by choosing accommodation that puts you right in the heart of wine country. Whether you’re into vineyard stays, boutique inns, or want the energy of downtown Queenstown, there’s a stay for every style of traveler.
Stay on a Vineyard: For the Full Wine Immersion
Kinross Cottages – Gibbston Valley
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to wake up among the vines, Kinross is your spot. Set in the middle of the Gibbston wine region, Kinross doubles as a cellar door and boutique lodge. You’ll have easy access to tastings from multiple boutique wineries like Coal Pit, Wild Irishman, and Valli Wines — all poured right on site.
- Best For: Wine lovers wanting a peaceful, immersive stay
- Bonus: Outdoor hot tub, walking trails, and onsite bistro
- Price Range: $$$
Book your stay at Kinross Cottages here!
Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa
This is the high-end option if you’re treating yourself. Private villas, your own wine cellar, vineyard views from your window, and access to spa treatments — it’s all about indulgence. You’re also just steps from the Gibbston Valley wine cave, restaurant, and bike trails.
- Best For: Couples or honeymooners looking to splurge
- Bonus: Complimentary bikes, wine cave tours, and wellness options
- Price Range: $$$$
Book your stay at Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa here!
Stay in Arrowtown: History Meets Wine Country
Stoneridge Estate – Luxury with Vineyard Views
Just outside of Arrowtown, Stoneridge Estate is one of the most romantic and photogenic places to stay in the region. With sweeping vineyard views, elegant suites, and a setting straight out of a wine country dream, this is the kind of place that feels special the second you arrive.
- Best For: Couples, honeymooners, or travelers treating themselves
- Bonus: Onsite chapel, cellar door, and private spa packages
- Price Range: $$$$
Book your stay at Stoneridge Estate in Arrowtown here!
Stay in Lake Hayes: A Hidden Gem for Slow Travelers
Lake Hayes Airbnb – A Peaceful Retreat on Central Otago’s Best Lake
Tucked between Arrowtown and Queenstown, this Airbnb in Lake Hayes offers the best of both worlds: total tranquility and quick access to the Central Otago wineries. I stayed here for my month living in Queenstown and it ended up being one of the highlights of the trip. Mornings started with coffee on the patio overlooking the beautiful mountains, and evenings ended with a glass of Pinot under the stars. It’s a true slow travel experience.
- Best For: Couples or solo travelers looking for space, quiet, and scenery
- Bonus: Short drive to Amisfield, Mora, and Arrowtown; walkable to Lake Hayes loop track
- Price Range: $$–$$$
Pro Tip: Book well in advance — this Airbnb is popular and books up fast, especially in peak season.
Learn more about this Lake Hayes Airbnb here!
Stay in Queenstown: For Wine + Adventure
If you want a mix of wineries by day and nightlife or lakefront strolls by evening, staying in Queenstown is your best bet. It’s just a 25-minute drive to the Gibbston Valley and easy access to wine tours, many of which include pickup from town.
Kamana Lakehouse – Chic Comfort with Epic Views
Perched above Lake Wakatipu, Kamana Lakehouse offers a stylish, boutique hotel experience with some of the best lake and mountain views in Queenstown. The design is modern and earthy, and the vibe is relaxed yet polished — think glass walls, cozy fireplaces, and a stunning on-site restaurant focused on seasonal, local produce. It’s a great base for wine travelers who want a little luxury but still value warmth and authenticity.
- Best For: Couples or solo travelers wanting comfort with a view
- Bonus: Outdoor hot tubs overlooking the lake, and the onsite Nest Kitchen & Bar serves up regional wines and elevated local cuisine
- Price Range: $$$
Book your stay at Kamana Lakehouse here!
QT Queenstown
For something bold and boutique, QT delivers modern rooms with lake views and a quirky, stylish edge. It’s walking distance to Queenstown’s top restaurants and makes a good base if you’re doing wine tastings during the day and bar hopping at night.
- Best For: Design lovers and city explorers
- Bonus: Modern cocktail bar, lakeview rooms
- Price Range: $$$
Book your stay at QT Queenstown here!
Whether you’re after vineyard serenity, boutique charm, or a bustling town base, there’s no shortage of amazing places to stay in Central Otago wine country. Booking ahead is key — especially during summer and autumn harvest season.
Tips for Visiting the Queenstown Wineries
- Limit your stops to 3–4 wineries per day
It’s tempting to hit them all, but less is more when it comes to wine tasting. You’ll enjoy it more if you slow down and spend quality time at each stop. - Book ahead — especially in peak season
Book ahead — especially at popular Queenstown wineries like Amisfield or Kinross, where tastings and lunches often fill up fast. - Plan around a proper winery lunch
Make one of your stops a long lunch. Wineries like Mora, Amisfield, and Gibbston Valley have excellent food and wine pairings. It breaks up the tastings and adds to the experience. - Pace your tastings and stay hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle, sip slowly, and don’t feel pressured to finish every pour — spittoons are totally normal and accepted. - Consider biking the Gibbston River Trail
If the weather’s right, it’s a fun and scenic way to get from winery to winery. Just remember to drink responsibly — even with e-bikes, moderation is key. - Ask questions and connect with the staff
Many wineries are family-owned or run by people deeply passionate about the land. Asking about the wine, the history, or the winemaker often leads to great stories and recommendations. - Take a bottle or two home (or have it shipped)
Most cellar doors can help you ship wine internationally, or you can pack a couple of bottles in a wine travel bag. It’s the best kind of souvenir.
Best Time of Year to Visit Otago Vineyards
The Central Otago wine region is beautiful year-round, but different seasons bring different experiences:
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | Vines are waking up, fewer crowds, crisp days, and vibrant greens. |
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | Peak wine tasting season. Long sunny days, busy cellar doors, perfect for alfresco lunches. |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | My personal favorite. Harvest time, golden foliage, and quieter vineyards. Incredible light for photography. |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | Snow-dusted vines, cozy tasting rooms, and winter reds. Some wineries may reduce hours, but you’ll often get personalized service. |
Wine Varietals to Expect in the Queenstown/Central Otago Region
Central Otago has carved out a name globally — especially for its Pinot Noir, but there’s more depth here than most travelers realize.
Central Otago’s Signature Grape: Pinot Noir
My personal favorite wine, Pinot Noir. It’s what this region is known for, and for good reason. The cool climate, high elevation, and dramatic day-night temperature swings make for structured, complex Pinots that are both fruity and earthy.
Other Standout Varietals
- Pinot Gris – Lush, aromatic, and food-friendly.
Great at: Mt. Rosa or Mora. - Riesling – Often off-dry with citrus and minerality.
Try at: Peregrine or Kinross. - Chardonnay – Crisp and clean, often aged lightly in oak.
Top pick: Gibbston Valley Reserve Chardonnay. - Sauvignon Blanc – Less grassy than Marlborough styles, more stone fruit and minerality.
- Rosé – Especially in summer, you’ll see it everywhere.
Pair it with: Lake views and sunshine.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about slowing down in wine country. You’re not just drinking — you’re tasting a place, a season, and a story in every glass. The Queenstown and Central Otago wine region is built for this kind of experience: laid-back, scenic, full of flavor, and best enjoyed without a tight schedule.
Whether you base yourself in a vineyard cottage, plan a bike-and-sip adventure, or settle into a long lunch at a cellar door with mountain views, this region will leave you both relaxed and inspired.
Exploring the Queenstown wineries is more than a wine tasting day — it’s a journey through one of New Zealand’s most iconic regions. Whether you’re visiting cellar doors in Gibbston Valley, dining in Lake Hayes, or biking to boutique vineyards, the Queenstown winery scene has something for every traveler.
Queenstown Wineries Travel FAQ
What are the best wineries to visit in Queenstown?
Chard Farm, Kinross, Mt. Rosa, and Amisfield top the list for tasting, atmosphere, and wine quality. For food pairings, don’t miss Mora or Gibbston Valley Restaurant.
How do I get to Gibbston Valley from Queenstown?
It’s a 25-minute drive east via SH-6. You can drive yourself, bike the trail, or take a guided tour that picks you up from your hotel.
Are there wine tours available in Central Otago?
Yes — companies run half-day and full-day tours into the Gibbston Valley and beyond for tastings at Queenstown wineries.
Which Queenstown wineries offer lunch options?
Amisfield, Mora Wines, and Gibbston Valley all serve gourmet lunches. Ayrburn is a great new destination for dining as well.
What is the best time of year to visit Otago vineyards?
Autumn (March–May) is ideal — beautiful scenery, harvest vibes, and fewer crowds. Summer is the busiest and most vibrant.
Can I do a self-guided wine tour in Gibbston Valley?
Yes, absolutely. Rent a car or e-bike and hit the Gibbston River Trail. Many wineries are close together and well signposted. Just don’t drink and drive.
Are there family-friendly Queenstown wineries?
Gibbston Tavern is relaxed and casual, and Kinross is known for being kid-friendly with open spaces and a laid-back vibe.
What wines is Central Otago known for?
Primarily Pinot Noir, but also great Riesling, Pinot Gris, Rosé, and Chardonnay.
Do Queenstown wineries require reservations?
Not all, but it’s smart to book in advance — especially for places with restaurants or in peak travel months (Dec–Mar).
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