Desert Heart Estate: A Beautiful Boutique Vineyard in Central Otago
Desert Heart Estate is a small but beautiful boutique vineyard situated on Felton Road in the charming Bannockburn region of Central Otago, New Zealand.
Founded in 1999 by Denny and Jane, the estate is a perfect expression of the lifelong passion of the couple to create a vineyard and wine business in Central Otago. Desert Heart Estate offers a great experience to wine and nature enthusiasts with vistas of the surrounding mountains, river, and gold sluicing area.
Award-Winning Wines at Desert Heart Estate
In keeping with their philosophy of letting the fruit speak for itself, Desert Heart Estate produces four different wines - Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Rosé. The vineyard has won several awards for its exceptional wines, including the Gold Medal at the New Zealand International Wine Show, for its 2019 Pinot Noir, revered among connoisseurs of wine.
Things To Do at Desert Heart Estate
Desert Heart Estate is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts traveling to Central Otago. The Estate has a tasting room, cellar door, and the Desert Heart Kitchen, where you can taste award-winning wines or relax and sip on a glass of wine while indulging in a seasonal, beautifully prepared platter.
Explore the Beautiful Region of Bannockburn
Desert Heart Estate is within driving distance from other wineries in the Bannockburn region, such as Mt. Difficulty, Domain Road, Wooing Tree, and Aurum. Exploring each of the vineyards can take several days, making it a perfect multi-day adventure for wine enthusiasts.
Visit Queenstown for More Natural Wonders
Visitors can complement their visit to Desert Heart Estate by taking a trip to Queenstown, which is within easy reach. Queenstown is known for its natural scenery, world-class skiing during the winter, and cycling in the multiple trails during the rest of the year.
Best Time to Visit Desert Heart Estate
Visitors can visit Desert Heart Estate all year round, but the best time to go wine-tasting is from October to April. The weather during this period is warmer and more conducive for outdoor activities compared to the colder winter months.
How to Get to Desert Heart Estate
Desert Heart Estate is located in Bannockburn, approximately 45 minutes away by car from Queenstown. The estate is easily accessible by car or public transport. Visitors can self-drive or book a tour either privately or with a group.