Wānaka wine tasting offers a refined, relaxed backdrop for days that feel curated without complication. With a balance of iconic wineries and trusted local operators, you can create an experience that is memorable, comfortable, and rich in character. With a deft mix of iconic wineries and expert local operators, you can curate a tasting experience that’s both memorable and effortlessly comfortable. The lineup below centers on six standout wine experiences and trusted ways to explore wine in Wānaka: Living the Dream Tours, Wānaka Wine Tours, Pembroke Wines and Spirits, Maude, Nanny Goat, and Rippon. Note that these are six of the recommended options; Wānaka has many more to explore beyond Marina Terrace for a broader, richer visit.
Experiences and Ways to Keep It Seamless
- Living the Dream Tours
A tailored winery itinerary with transport, insider access, and the ability to weave in vineyard walks or private tastings. This option suits travelers who want a stress-free day without sacrificing exclusivity; you control the pace and emphasis, and a driver handles the logistics so you can focus on the wine and scenery.
- Wānaka Wine Tours
Wānaka Wine Tasting Tours offers curated, driver-led experiences that showcase the region’s standout labels with a focus on comfort and efficiency. Guests typically enjoy well-paced tastings at a curated mix of Central Otago producers, with private or semi-private options that suit both couples and small groups. The emphasis is on seamless logistics, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to pair wine with local scenery, making it an ideal complement to a relaxed Wānaka day.
- Pembroke Wines and Spirits
A storied Central Otago tasting room/ bottle shop/ wine bar offering focused tastings, including structured flights and potential verticals when available. It’s ideal for Pinot Noir enthusiasts and provides a polished primer that sets a confident tone for the afternoon or evening. If you’re seeking a more intimate experience, call ahead to explore whether a private room can be arranged.
- Maude
Maude is a boutique producer known for its expressive, terroir-driven wines that reflect Central Otago’s character. Tastings tend to be intimate and conversation-driven, often featuring a small flight that highlights Maude’s distinctive winemaking approach. The setting is refined but unpretentious, appealing to visitors who want clarity about origin and craft without feeling overly structured.
- Nanny Goat
Nanny Goat offers a distinctive slice of Queensberry’s wine scene, with wines that lean into balance and approachability while still delivering personality. Tastings are typically at a cellar door with a relaxed atmosphere, focusing on thoughtfully chosen flights that showcase the estate’s more accessible expressions. The experience pairs well with Otago’s outdoorsy charm and provides a friendly counterpoint to more village-centric tasting rooms.
- Rippon
A lakefront estate renowned for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with tastings complemented by biodynamic farming and spectacular scenery. The experience benefits greatly from advance booking; if possible, add a short vineyard walk or estate overview to maximise the sense of place.
Crafting Your Wānaka Wine Day
- Logistics: To see multiple Cellar Doors, get a reliable driver or book a guided day to keep pace with tastings and views.
- Flexibility: Allow time for photos and a light bite. Wānaka’s landscape is part of the tasting.
- Booking: Reserve tastings in advance where possible; seasonal slots can fill quickly.
A wine day in and around Wānaka isn’t just about wine—it’s about the rhythm of a place that rewards preparation and curiosity. Even if you veer from a strict plan, a short excursion beyond Marina Terrace for a sunset sip or a nightcap in town can close the day with a quiet, luxurious finish. These five wineries are a strong starting point, but they’re by no means the whole story—Wānaka has many more estates and experiences to discover, each offering its own character and charm.
