Leaning Rock Vineyard: A Winery in the Heart of Central Otago
Leaning Rock Vineyard is a renowned winery located in Alexandra, Central Otago, famous for its production of cool climate wines.
Established in 1992, it is one of the oldest and most revered wineries in the region.
Location
Situated on a high river terrace overlooking the town of Alexandra, Leaning Rock Vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate due to its bare gravel soils, pine forest shelter, and sloping northerly aspect. The winery's three-hectare vineyard is well-maintained and provides an ideal spot for wine tasting, winery tours, and picnics.
Things to Do
Leaning Rock Vineyard offers a range of activities and amenities to visitors. Wine tasting and tours are some of the most popular among them. The winery produces exquisite cool climate wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors will get an opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard.
For those seeking an outdoor experience, picnic facilities are available, and visitors can enjoy the scenic views of Central Otago while sipping on their favorite wine. The winery also has meeting/conference facilities, caves, and wedding facilities.
Accommodation
Leaning Rock Vineyard offers lodging at its Wild Irishman Wine Estate, an ideal spot for wine enthusiasts who want to explore New Zealand's wine regions. The Leaning Rock Cottage at Wild Irishman Wine Estate is a spacious and cozy holiday home located in Alexandra, 18 miles from Central Otago. The cottage is fully equipped with all the basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Complimentary WiFi and a private garden are also available.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Leaning Rock Vineyard is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and dry. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Central Otago while exploring the winery and its vineyard. However, it is important to note that this is the peak tourist season, and advance booking is recommended.
How to Get There
Alexandra is located around 80 km from Queenstown, a popular tourist spot in New Zealand. The easiest way to get to Leaning Rock Vineyard is by car. Visitors can take State Highway 8 from Queenstown, which runs through Cromwell and then leads to Alexandra. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Queenstown and then hire a car to reach the winery.