waitiri Creek wines

Waitiri Creek Wines is one of the pioneering family owned wineries in the Gibbston wine region, helping establish Central Otago as one of New Zealand's most celebrated destinations for cool climate wines and world class Pinot Noir. Established in 1993, the boutique winery has earned a reputation for producing premium handcrafted wines while offering an authentic wine tasting experience just a short drive from Queenstown.

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Owned by the Ward family, whose connection to the Queenstown Lakes region dates back to the nineteenth century, Waitiri Creek combines generations of local heritage with a passion for exceptional winemaking. As one of the original wineries in Gibbston Valley, the family recognised the region's extraordinary potential long before Central Otago became internationally renowned for producing some of the world's finest Pinot Noir. Their pioneering spirit and commitment to quality continue to define every vintage.

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The estate vineyards are carefully managed using environmentally sustainable practices, with every grape hand harvested to ensure exceptional quality and purity of fruit. Free draining schist soils, warm summer days and cool alpine nights create ideal conditions for producing elegant, expressive wines that reflect the unique terroir of Gibbston. Waitiri Creek is best known for its award winning Central Otago Pinot Noir, while also producing exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc.

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Today, visitors are welcomed to Waitiri Creek's beautifully restored historic woolshed cellar door, where genuine hospitality, spectacular views across the Gibbston Valley and premium wine tastings create one of the most authentic winery experiences in Central Otago. Combining pioneering history, family ownership and a dedication to handcrafted wines, Waitiri Creek perfectly showcases the passion, heritage and craftsmanship that have made the Queenstown wine region famous around the world.