The recently launched Southern Discoveries wine  tour takes in four charming family-owned boutique wineries as it journeys through the heart of Central Otago’s renowned Gibbston Valley wine region.

“This is a small and sophisticated Queenstown Wine Tour travelling in comfort aboard a luxury vehicle and perfect for true wine lovers seeking an authentic experience,” says marketing coordinator Puhi Solomon.

The hand-picked vineyards have been chosen for their exceptional wines, passionate winemakers and connection to the rich legacy of the region. Premium wine tastings are held with a focus on award-winning Pinot Noir and other celebrated varietals as cellar door hosts share their stories and expertise in a relaxed setting.

“Vineyards include Chard Farm, Waitiri Creek and Brennan Wines in Gibbston Valley and Mora in Arrowtown which are all known for their unique character and world-class wine,” says Puhi. “On occasions where a winery is not available, an equally appealing alternative will be offered.”

Domaine Thomson Central Otago – Burgundy experience

The award-winning Domaine Thomson rustic and intimate cellar door sits on a natural platform above the 14-hectare certified organic vineyard offering panoramic views across the vineyard and Cromwell Basin to Lake Dunstan. 

The cellar door is open daily for wine tastings, platters and wine sales.

“Our recommendation is to allow time to enjoy the location, soak up the stunning environment and sample a tasting of our finest wines inside the cellar door or out in the beautiful organic garden courtyard,” says winery manager Claudio Heye. “Visitors can choose a private tasting of our signature Central Otago and Burgundian wine selection while enjoying a

platter of authentic French cheese with specific glass pours or bottles served in the elegant gallery room or library.”

Domaine Thomson is open Monday to Sunday from 11.00 am until 5.00 pm. Tastings and platters can be booked online 24 hours in advance to ensure availability.

Quartz Reef’s biodynamic wines
From exclusive back vintage cellar releases, private tastings and master classes to personal vineyard and winery tours with “behind the scenes” access the team at Quartz Reef ensure visitors of a true expression of Central Otago.

Under the guidance of founder and wine maker Rudi Bauer Quartz Reef crafts certified organic and biodynamic wines from its single vineyard estate on Bendigo Station.

“The vineyard is farmed using biodynamic methods that enhance soil vitality, biodiversity and grape character,” says marketing manager Lianne Collins. “Quartz Reef is  New Zealand’s leading producer of Méthode Traditionnelle sparkling wine and both Rudi and our new wine maker Pip Clarke focus on combining old world techniques with new world terroir.”

The Quartz Reef winery cellar door is open Monday – Friday 12.00pm until 4.00pm. 

“We welcome visitors to our working winery tasting room based in Cromwell’s industrial estate to discover how we handcraft our wines. Visits  can be booked through our Quartz Reef office.”