Credit: Young Adventuress
Explore Wineries & Breweries
Is there anything better than sampling expertly crafted beverages direct from the source? Paired with exceptional food and Central South Island’s rolling hills and rugged coastlines, and you’ve got yourself quite the treat.
From Ōtautahi Christchurch’s world-winning craft beers to Waipara’s wine trail, fend off the winter chill in the Central South Island’s finest cellar doors and breweries. You deserve it.
Reefton Distilling Co., West Coast
What do you get when you combine native botanicals with rainwater filtered for decades through the West Coast’s pristine wilderness? West Coast in a bottle, that’s what. Reefton Distilling Co bottles its natural surroundings to create some of the best gin, vodka and whiskey in the world from one of the historic gold mining town’s original buildings. Check out their distillery on an afternoon group tour on Smith St.
The Brewery – Cassels & Sons, Christchurch
Craft beer and pizza have been a match made in heaven since way back and The Brewery by Cassels & Sons hit the spot every time. Their Milk Stout beat Guinness – yes, that Guinness – at the World Beer Awards recently, alongside a string of other accolades. Grab a wood-fired pizza and a tasting paddle and bask in the glow of the copper stills behind the bar.
Georges Road Wines, Hurunui
You can’t get much closer to the action than a cellar door visit at Georges Road. Part of the famous South Bank wineries in Waipara, you’ll more than likely be met by Kirk Bray – owner, winemaker and passionate viticulturalist. He’ll talk you through their current wines and take you behind the scenes of the winery. Check out their Winepod for a luxury night on the vineyard.
Mt Fyffe Distillery, Kaikōura
Inspired by Kaikoura’s slopes and coasts, Mt Fyffe Gin is one of a kind. Botanicals gathered from Mt Fyffe’s foothills and crafted into blends celebrating the surrounding landscapes. The Woolshed Gin heroes juniper, kanuka, mint and elderflower while Shearwater is a nod to the ocean with floral flavours and local seaweed. Take a heli ride to the top of Mt Fyffe to sample the mountain’s namesake gin – bookings essential!
Ship Hop Brewing, South Canterbury
Ship Hop Brewing may be Timaru’s only microbrewery, but it’s quickly made a name for itself across the country. Housed in a gorgeous turn-of-the-century building, Ship Hop keeps its loyal following on their toes by experimenting and serving up a monthly special, alongside producing six staple beers. Hop down on a Friday night and join a bustling community of craft beer enthusiasts.
Three Boys Brewery, Christchurch
Christchurch’s Three Boys Brewery is the whole package: live music, a comfy lounge, and a selection of brews made on-site with the best local ingredients. Here you’ll find the infamous Oyster Stout, the most awarded beer in the country, made with the addition of Bluff Oysters.
Greystone Wines, Hurunui
Greystone Wines is inspired to produce hand-crafted and organic wines by creating a connection between bottle and backyard. Greystone may be recognised as one of the country’s best wineries, but there’s more to their cellar door than just exceptional wine. Their locally foraged menu stays in tune to the seasons.
