With its high altitude landscapes of lush hills stretching as far as the eye can see, is it any surprise that the scenic township of Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s premier wine producing regions. This captivating area is also fast gaining popularity as a wine touring hotspot with a variety of tour operators offering personalized tours of the vineyards and quaint wineries that make Queenstown the self- proclaimed wine capital of the Kiwi heartland.
Famed for producing some of the finest blends of Chardonnay, Methode Traditional, Riesling, Pinot Noir Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris in the region, the wineries and vineyards of Queenstown are diverse and many, although some of the town’s flagship wine manufacturers will feature in almost all itineraries offered by local tour operators. The Gibbston Valley Winery is one such venue as the award-wining winery released the premier commercial wine vintage in the late 80’s. Housing the largest wine cave in all of New Zealand a trip to Queenstown would truly be amiss without a stopover at this iconic establishment.
Other highlights include the Chard Farm Winery which was first set up in 1987 and Brennan Wines which produces iconic blends that have conquered world markets. The 12 hectare family owned vineyard of Coal Pit Wines is another stunning property facing the slant of Gibbston Valley while the Waitiri Creek Wines enclave feature a cellar door and restaurant housed in a historic1893 church. With an ideal location in the shadows of the snow capped mountains of the area lies Peregrine Wines and its collective of vineyards with scenic surroundings. The Mt.Rosa Winery on the other hand is one of Queenstown’s largest vineyards at a whopping 36 hectares in size. The Amisfield Winery & Bistro is a staple in most wine trails as this winery is a specialist manufacturer of a number of award-winning and globally recognized wines. The country style eatery and bistro at the venue is equally acclaimed for its delectable menu and quality service.
The Mount Soho Winery Venue found in rural Queenstown is another highlight as this spectacular winery designed by none other than Michael Wyatt and is a stunning property built in the rustic setting of the open countryside.
Visitors planning a family travel Queenstown excursion should look to none other than the Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront for all their accommodation needs. Less than half an hour away from stunning Coronet Peak this award-winning rest offers the best Queenstown accommodation packages all year round.
