Drive Gibbston Valley yourself, with a GPS audio guide that plays automatically as you go. Your booking unlocks the whole region in the free Wine Trails app: pick your date and starting point — most travellers set off from Queenstown, Arrowtown or Cromwell — choose the cellar doors you want, and the app builds your personal route with turn-by-turn narration. 59 stories cover 17 cellar doors strung along the Kawarau Gorge: as you pass Gibbston Valley Wines you'll hear how the first vines went in during 1981, when viticulturists said Pinot Noir could not ripen this far south — and how every vine in the Central Otago basin beyond the gorge traces back to that decision. No group, no schedule, no guide — pause for a long lunch, replay anything, and the audio keeps working when the signal drops in the gorge. You'll need a car and a designated driver; tastings are booked and paid directly with the wineries.
At Chard Farm Winery, you'll drive down one of the most scenic and dramatic vineyard access roads in New Zealand. As you approach, the audio guide will share the history of Chard Farm’s pioneering role in establishing Gibbston’s wine identity, along with details on its unique location perched above the Kawarau River. At the cellar door, you’ll have the opportunity to taste their renowned Pinot Noirs and learn about the distinct terroir that shapes their wines.
At the Rockburn Cellar Door, you'll be guided to a welcoming tasting room set within the bustling Gibbston Tavern precinct. Your audio guide introduces Rockburn’s award-winning Pinot Noirs and cool-climate varietals, while sharing the story behind the label’s name — inspired by the rugged Central Otago landscape. Inside, you can enjoy a curated tasting experience showcasing wines that reflect both purity of fruit and winemaking finesse.
As you arrive at Cox’s Vineyard, your audio guide shares the story of this boutique, family-run vineyard known for its minimal intervention winemaking and sustainably grown Pinot Noir. Nestled among the rugged hills of Gibbston, the vineyard offers a more personal, off-the-beaten-path tasting experience. Visitors have the opportunity to meet the growers themselves and taste wines that speak directly of the land they come from.
At Brennan Wines, you'll discover a relaxed and intimate cellar door set against the stunning backdrop of Gibbston’s rugged hills. As you pull in, your audio guide introduces the Brennan family legacy and their deep roots in Central Otago winemaking. Known for elegant, age-worthy Pinot Noir and innovative small-batch varietals, Brennan offers a tasting experience that feels personal, thoughtful, and truly connected to place. Stay a while — the lawn, the view, and the wines invite you to linger.
As you arrive at Mt Rosa Wines, your audio guide sets the tone for one of Gibbston’s most character-filled cellar doors. Set in a refurbished woolshed, Mt Rosa blends rustic charm with bold winemaking. You'll learn how the vineyard transformed from a high-country sheep station into a boutique producer known for Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Rosé with serious personality. Inside, expect laid-back hospitality, sweeping views, and wines as unpretentious as they are unforgettable.
At Kinross, you'll arrive at a vibrant hub of Central Otago wine culture. Your audio guide will introduce you to this unique cellar door, which represents not just one, but six boutique wine labels — including Coal Pit, Hawkshead, Valli, and more. Set on a beautiful property with a bistro and vineyard cottages, Kinross offers a curated tasting experience that celebrates the diversity and craftsmanship of the region. It’s a place to sip, stay, and soak in the spirit of Gibbston.
The vineyard that started Central Otago. Planted in 1981 when viticulturists said Pinot Noir could not ripen this far south, with a wine cave cut into the schist behind the cellar door.
A deconsecrated church on the Gibbston Highway serving as a cellar door and cafe, and a natural stop on the cycle trail between vineyards.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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