Chard Farm Winery - A must-visit for wine and nature enthusiasts
Chard Farm Winery is a small family-owned winery in Central Otago, New Zealand, established in 1987.
Chard Farm is one of the pioneers of wine in Central Otago, with six estate-owned vineyards in the Cromwell and Gibbston regions. Specializing in Pinot Noirs, Chard Farm Winery's philosophy is to create interesting wines that are to be enjoyed with food, conversation, and contemplation.
If you're looking for a winery that prioritizes quality over quantity, look no further than Chard Farm Winery. Their wines do not participate in competitions, and the team focuses on creating wines that offer a genuine flavor length, with good fruit/acid balance, which has garnered them a reputation for producing complex and interesting, textural, and elegant wines.
What to see and do
Chard Farm Winery's Cellar Door is set amidst a stunning and dramatic landscape with spectacular views across the valley, making it is a must-see destination in Queenstown, New Zealand. The Cellar Door is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the winery's exclusive Pinot Noirs and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visitors can take a winery day tour to stroll through vineyards, cycle to each winery, or jump on board a hop-on-hop-off winery tour bus. An excellent opportunity to learn more about grape varieties, winemaking processes, and, of course, taste some of the region's finest wines.
When to visit
The Chard Farm Winery is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months, as it is the peak season for wine tours. June and July are also great months to tour the vineyards, as the grape harvest season begins in late March/early April, and visitors can witness the winery's busy operations.
How to get there
Chard Farm Winery is located in the Gibbston area of Queenstown, which is one of the most scenic wine-growing areas in New Zealand. It is approximately a 25-minute drive from Queenstown or Arrowtown, making it easily accessible by car. Alternatively, visitors can book a wine tour or transfer service, which is a reliable and convenient way to experience the winery.