Chard Farm Winery
A historic winery perched dramatically above the Kawarau River gorge, offering exceptional Pinot Noir and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the sun on the vineyards
Chard Farm Winery
Best Time
Enjoy the sun on the vineyards
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic winery perched dramatically above the Kawarau River gorge, offering exceptional Pinot Noir and breathtaking views.
"An absolute treasure of a winery with stunning views and exceptional wines."
🎯 Book Your Tasting Ahead
Essential to book tastings in advance, unlike some other wineries. :ticket:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic landscape offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spectacular Gorge Views
Winery grounds
Breathtaking vistas of the Kawarau River and surrounding dramatic landscape. A truly unforgettable backdrop for wine tasting.
+1
Award-Winning Pinot Noir
Tasting room
Savor the renowned Central Otago Pinot Noir, a signature of this historic winery. Discover delightful surprises like their Sauvignon Blanc.
Rustic Elegance
Tasting room and grounds
Experience a simple, rustic yet elegant winery structure nestled between a cliff and a mountain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tasting in Advance
Embrace the Dramatic Landscape
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Tasting Ahead
Essential to book tastings in advance, unlike some other wineries. :ticket:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic landscape offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
🍷 Explore Unique Wines
Beyond Pinot Noir, try their surprising Sauvignon Blanc with tropical notes. :wine_glass:
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive to the winery is as spectacular as the destination itself.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Tasting Ahead
Essential to book tastings in advance, unlike some other wineries. :ticket:
📸 Capture the Views
The dramatic landscape offers incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera!
🍷 Explore Unique Wines
Beyond Pinot Noir, try their surprising Sauvignon Blanc with tropical notes. :wine_glass:
🚗 Scenic Drive In
The drive to the winery is as spectacular as the destination itself.
💡 Learn from Hosts
Tasting hosts are educators; engage with them for a richer experience. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chard Farm Winery is lauded as an absolute treasure, celebrated for its exceptional Gibbston Valley Pinot Noir and delightful surprises like a tropical Central Otago Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and passionate hosts, the charming and romantic atmosphere, and the winery's stunning, dramatic setting overlooking the Kawarau River gorge. The rustic elegance of the property adds to the memorable experience, making it a highly recommended destination.
"This is an absolute treasure of a winery with some of the best Gibbston valley Pinot Noir and delightful surprises such as a Central Otago Sauvignon Blanc with characteristic NZ South Island tropical pop of passion fruit! Who knew this was possible so far south!
Chelsea, our wine tasting host, an educator really, looked after us exceptionally well. We enjoyed the tasting and learnt a lot in the process!
Thoroughly recommended!"
Jayant Joshi
"We had a wonderful time at Chard Farm! Their wine tastings are indeed known for their charm and romantic atmosphere. The setting, with its picturesque vineyards and rustic elegance, adds so much to the experience. The way the hosts explain the nuances of each wine—the flavors, aromas, and craftsmanship—truly elevates the tasting to an art form. Thank you Mr: D"
E Lidenhammar
"I came back to this winery probably fourth or fifth time - going will all my friends who are first time in New Zealand or Queenstown , and this time I took my parents visiting from overseas.
We really enjoyed our tasting.
Very welcoming atmosphere and delicious wines.
Special thanks to Pauline who conducted our tasting and showed us around in the winery where the bottles and barrels are stored.
The views of the canyon were stunning.
We also enjoyed the installations in the winery with a cute pig family made with wires and a girl on a bicycle made of wooden roots.
The only problem my parents had - they did not manage to take all bottles we bought with them back overseas, we finished a few just days later while still in New Zealand!!"
Anastasia Danilova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chard Farm Winery is located in the Gibbston Valley, a scenic drive from Queenstown. You can drive yourself, rent a car, or consider a wine tour that includes Chard Farm. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering stunning views of the Kawarau River gorge.
The drive is scenic but can be winding and steep in parts, characteristic of the Gibbston Valley's dramatic landscape. It's advisable to drive cautiously and enjoy the journey.
While possible, rideshare availability can be spotty in the Gibbston Valley. Booking a taxi in advance or opting for a dedicated wine tour is generally more reliable for getting to and from Chard Farm.
Public transport options directly to Chard Farm are limited. Wine tours are the most convenient way to visit multiple wineries in the region without the hassle of driving.
The drive from Queenstown to Chard Farm Winery typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and your chosen route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance at Chard Farm. Unlike some other wineries, they often require reservations to ensure a spot.
A wine tasting at Chard Farm typically costs around $20 NZD per person. It's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current pricing.
A wine tasting usually includes a selection of their signature wines, with knowledgeable hosts guiding you through the flavors, aromas, and winemaking process.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Chard Farm Winery website or contact them directly for their current operating hours before your visit.
While tastings are the primary way to experience the wines, you can often visit the winery to enjoy the views and purchase bottles. However, booking a tasting is recommended for the full experience.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The entire property offers stunning photo opportunities. Key spots include the tasting room overlooking the gorge, the vineyards, and various vantage points along the drive up to the winery.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, the winding Kawarau River, and the expansive vineyard views make it a prime location for landscape photographers.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside the tasting room, but it's always polite to be mindful of other guests and ask staff if you're unsure.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, often provides the most dramatic and beautiful light for capturing the landscape and winery.
Yes, visitors have noted charming wire sculptures of a pig family and a wooden root girl on a bicycle, which can make for unique photo subjects.
🎫 🍷 Wine & Tasting
Chard Farm is most famous for its Central Otago Pinot Noir. They also offer other varietals, including a surprisingly tropical Sauvignon Blanc.
Yes, you can purchase bottles of wine directly from the winery after your tasting. Many visitors end up buying more than they initially planned!
Their Pinot Noir benefits from the unique terroir of the Gibbston Valley and the winery's long history, resulting in wines with depth, complexity, and characteristic regional notes.
Information on non-alcoholic options is not widely available. It's best to inquire directly with the winery when booking your tasting.
A wine tasting at Chard Farm usually lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to sample wines and learn about them from your host.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Chard Farm Winery primarily focuses on wine tastings and does not typically offer a full food menu. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
Yes, the Gibbston Valley has several excellent wineries with restaurants, and there are also dining options back in Queenstown. Some wineries offer platters.
Wineries generally do not permit outside food to be consumed on their premises, especially during tastings. It's best to check their policy directly.
While not a full restaurant, some wineries may offer small cheese or cracker platters. Inquire with Chard Farm directly about any available light snacks.
Picnic facilities are not a common offering at wineries like Chard Farm, which focus on seated tastings. It's best to plan for dining elsewhere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check with the winery beforehand regarding their policy on children during tastings. Some wineries are more accommodating than others. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or focusing on enjoying the views and purchasing wine to take away if a formal tasting isn't suitable for younger family members.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a leisurely wine tasting together, savoring the renowned Pinot Noir while taking in the breathtaking views of the Kawarau River gorge. The intimate tasting room and the passionate guidance of the hosts can make for a truly special and memorable experience for two.
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable hosts who are eager to share their passion and expertise. The unique terroir and the winery's dedication to quality produce wines with depth and character, including surprising varietals like their tropical Sauvignon Blanc.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dramatic Setting of Chard Farm
+2This dramatic topography not only offers stunning visual appeal but also contributes to the unique terroir of the region. Visitors consistently rave about the views, calling them 'spectacular' and 'breathtaking.' It's a place where the natural beauty of New Zealand is on full display, making the wine tasting experience even more memorable.
+1Beyond the views, the winery itself embodies a 'simple, rustic but extremely elegant' structure. This blend of natural grandeur and understated charm creates a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for savoring the local wines.
Exploring Chard Farm's Wines
Beyond the celebrated Pinot Noir, Chard Farm also offers intriguing varietals that defy expectations. One such example is their Central Otago Sauvignon Blanc, which, despite the region's southern latitude, boasts a 'tropical pop of passion fruit' characteristic of New Zealand's South Island Sauvignon Blancs. This unexpected offering is a testament to the winery's innovation and the diverse microclimates of Central Otago.
The wine tasting experience at Chard Farm is elevated by knowledgeable and passionate hosts. They act as educators, sharing insights into the nuances of each wine, from its aromas and flavors to the craftsmanship involved. This interactive approach transforms a simple tasting into an enriching journey of discovery.
The Chard Farm Visitor Experience
The tasting room, though described as small, contributes to an intimate and positive overall experience. The hosts, like Chelsea and Dominic, are frequently singled out for their exceptional service, providing detailed information and genuine passion for the wines. This personal touch makes guests feel valued and enhances their understanding and appreciation of the wines.
Beyond the wine, the winery grounds feature charming artistic installations, such as wire sculptures of a pig family and a wooden root girl on a bicycle, adding a whimsical element to the visit. These unique touches, combined with the overall rustic elegance and breathtaking views, make Chard Farm a standout destination in the Gibbston Valley.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit