And there’s more to these wineries than meets the eye – many of them offer luxury experiences that take a vineyard visit to the next level.
From high-end accommodation, to helicopter flights, to tailored wine tastings, here are some fabulous ways to experience the best of the region in style.
Stay
Mt Michael Lodge
Cromwell
There’s no mistaking you’re in the heart of Central Otago wine region when you arrive at Mt Michael Lodge. Set in the Mt Michael vineyard, this stunning hosted lodge rests on a terrace overlooking Lake Dunstan, the Pisa and Dunstan mountain ranges. Host Fiona Marris is a life-long foodie who placed in the top 10 in Season 5 of MasterChef New Zealand – so dining in-house is a culinary experience not to be missed. Combine your stay with the Heliview Wine Tasting at Altitude, where you will be picked up and dropped off at the front lawn of the lodge.
Aurum Loft
Cromwell
Situated in the Aurum Wine organic vineyard and gardens, this is a luxury loft suite where you can be as sociable or self-sufficient as you wish. A perfect hideaway for a romantic weekend or to simply get away from it all. Take part in the private Winemaker Tour for an extra special way to experience Aurum’s wines.
Fly
Mt Michael Cellar Door Wine Tasting flight
Taste Mt Michael wines on top of the mountain from which they get their name with a Heliview Wine Tasting at Altitude. You’ll be given an aerial overview of the Cromwell Basin vineyards, followed by a personalised wine tasting with Mt Michael winemaker Jody Pagey. Each of Mt Michael’s three wines are provided along with some seasonal nibbles.
www.heliview.co.nz/wineataltitude
Heli Jeep Wine Tour
Take a unique tour of Central Otago’s wineries by helicopter and Jeep. Visiting up to six Central Otago vineyards, the day includes a private helicopter flight, alpine landing and exclusive vineyard experiences, winery lunch and wine tastings. Transport from and to your accommodation is also included, as well as chauffeured travel by Jeep between vineyards. The choice of vineyards is customised and tailored to suit your preference.
www.heliview.co.nz/helijeepwine
Taste
The Cloudy Bay Shed
Cromwell
This is no ordinary shed – Cloudy Bay’s Central Otago home, set in its Northburn Vineyard near Cromwell, is a true luxury winery experience. Choose from a range of options such as a cellar door wine tasting, a tailor-made tasting with a bespoke selection of wines, or a private gastronomic lunch or dinner paired with Cloudy Bay wines in the private Lakeview Room.
Te Kano Estate
Bannockburn
Te Kano’s spectacular new cellar door is cantilevered out into the Felton Road landscape, with incredible views of the Kawarau River, Cromwell Basin and mountains beyond. Enjoy pinot and chardonnay from the vineyard while sampling local delicacies from their serving platters.