Taste Queenstown’s iconic pinot noir and explore a new generation of local craft beers
The heart of the award-winning Central Otago wine region, Queenstown is internationally renowned for its picture-perfect vineyards boasting full-bodied pinot noir and aromatic whites. The gateway to over two hundred wineries, Queenstown is the perfect place to taste the terroir of the South Island’s schist soils, river gravels and long hot summers.
For those who prefer to take in Queenstown by the pint, our spectacular collection of wineries are joined by a vibrant craft beer scene, putting local ingredients to good use.
Read on to find your new favourite tipple.
Queenstown Wine & Craft Beer Experiences
The Queenstown Wine & Brew Scene
The Story of Queenstown Wine
The story of Central Otago’s wine industry starts with the 1860s gold rush. Over a century would…
Meet Our Winemakers
Meet the passionate winemakers defining the taste of the region. The personalities behind our great…
Queenstown Craft Beer Guide
Experience Queenstown's craft beer scene, with six craft breweries using locally-sourced…
Brewing up Magic in Arrowtown
Lake & Wood Brew Co produces a range of quintessential local craft beers. Brewer Jay Sherwood…
Featured Stories Wineries & Breweries
A Wine and Food Lover’s Guide to Queenstown
- 7 min read
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and glacial waters, the views and the food are as unique as each other and there’s plenty for your mind and palate to explore.
The Story of Queenstown Wine
- 5 min read
Brimming with colourful characters achieving improbable goals, the story of Central Otago’s wine industry starts with the gold rushes of the 1860s.
A Wine Connoisseur’s Guide to Central Otago Wineries
- 6 min read
Meet Candice Chow. Wine reviewer and renowned sommelier, Candice shares her favourite local wineries, varietals, and wine shops. Here's your guide to…
Exploring Gibbston's Wineries and Cellar Doors
- 5 min read
A topline guide for what to expect at Gibbston's wineries and cellar doors.
A Wine and Food Lover’s Guide to Queenstown
- 7 min read
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and glacial waters, the views and the food are as unique as each other and there’s plenty for your mind and palate to explore.
6 Immersive Food and Beverage Experiences in Queenstown
- 6 min read
Queenstown is a purveyor of the extraordinary and its wine, craft beer and gourmet food offerings are no different. There’s plenty of unique culinary adventures…
A Bunch of Ways to Tour Queenstown Wineries
- 4 min read
Hop on a shuttle, bike around the vines, or go on a guided wine tour – there’s all sorts of ways to taste the terroir, and plenty more to eat, see and do along…
FAQs
How many wineries are in Queenstown?
The Queenstown region is home to over 75 wineries across the Central Otago wine region, with most within an hour's drive of town. The closest wine sub-region is Gibbston Valley, just 25 minutes from Queenstown, known as the 'Valley of Vines'. Nearby Bannockburn, Cromwell and Alexandra wine regions are all easily accessible for day trips. The area is world-renowned for its Pinot Noir, along with aromatic white varieties that thrive in our cool climate.
Local tip: Many wineries offer cellar door tastings, and several Gibbston Valley wineries can be accessed via the Queenstown Trail for a unique bike-and-wine experience. Book a guided wine tour to explore multiple vineyards without worrying about driving.
How to visit the wineries?
Queenstown offers several ways to explore our renowned wine region. Join a guided wine tour – options range from small-group luxury tours to larger coach experiences, all with expert guides and transport included. Self-drive is popular if you have a designated driver, with most wineries in Gibbston Valley just 25 minutes from town. For a unique experience, hire bikes and cycle the Queenstown Trail to cellar doors, or book a helicopter wine tour for a spectacular overview of the region's vineyards.
Many wineries offer tastings, tours of their facilities, and exceptional restaurants featuring local cuisine. Most cellar doors are open daily from 10am to 5pm, though booking ahead is recommended for larger groups or restaurant dining, especially during peak season.
Local tip: Consider joining a morning wine tour to enjoy lunch at a winery restaurant – many offer stunning alfresco dining during summer months.