Car park at Rippon
1 / 10

Rippon Vineyard Cellar Door

4.6
·257 reviews·Wānaka, New Zealand

A world-renowned biodynamic vineyard offering wine tasting with breathtaking views of Lake Wānaka.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Car park at Rippon

Rippon Vineyard Cellar Door

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned biodynamic vineyard offering wine tasting with breathtaking views of Lake Wānaka.

4.6
(257 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful wineries in the world, easily accessible from Wanaka's city centre."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The lake and vineyard vistas are incredibly photogenic.

🍷 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are essential for wine tastings. Book online in advance!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Wānaka Panorama

Lake Wānaka Panorama

Vineyard grounds

Breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains, framed by lush vineyards.

Biodynamic Wine Tasting

Biodynamic Wine Tasting

Cellar Door

Sample unique, biodynamic wines with knowledgeable staff guiding your tasting experience.

Historic Family Vineyard

Historic Family Vineyard

Vineyard grounds

Explore the grounds of a long-running, family-owned vineyard with a rich history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tasting in Advance

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot for a wine tasting. Walk-ins may face wait times or be unable to be accommodated.

Embrace the Views

The stunning lakeside scenery is a major draw. Allow ample time to soak in the breathtaking panoramas of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding vineyards.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late morning
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

THE MEN!! @omoloogun_ @_bolarinwa_ bride: @wanakinskitchen content creator: @durrode bridal styling and creative direction: @style_by_ruvero event planner: @bmluxeevents makeup: @olawande_mua hair styling: @adefunkeee photographer: @kayode_ogungbade gele artist: @khernys_touch aso oke look: @couturebytabik aso oke fabric: @asookebydee purple lace look: @emaginebybukola gold after party: @house...
@durrode
74.6K likes • 428.6K views

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The lake and vineyard vistas are incredibly photogenic. Reddit

🍷 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are essential for wine tastings. Book online in advance! Reddit

Blooms & Bubbles with Vineyard Road Cellar Door and Bloom Jar! 🌸🥂 On the 4th of November from 11am You will be guided by our talented friends at Bloom Jar Flowers + Events, to learn how to create the most perfect posies! No experience required! A great excuse to grab some friends together and learn a new skill while sipping on delicious wines in our garden overlooking the vineyard! 🙌 Additional ...
vineyard_road
69 likes • 0 views
Sunday well spent at the hidden gem that is @vineyard_road cellar door, cupcake-ing the day away.. 🧁
belletorte
49 likes • 3.3K views

🚗 Easy Access

Conveniently located near Wanaka, making it an easy stop. Reddit

🥂 Easy-Drinking Wines

Wines are noted as very easy to drink, especially the rosé. Reddit

Is your wine goblet looking old an tired??Need a fancy new one?? Ridiculous question..don't we all!! Available in the studio orrr....join us @vineyard_road winery on 13th August for a day of creativity among the vines! #cellardoor #paintyourownceramics #paintyourownpottery #winegoblet #fancypants #dayout #thingstodoinadelaide #timeout
pottering_around_semaphore
46 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera! The lake and vineyard vistas are incredibly photogenic. Reddit

🍷 Book Your Tasting

Reservations are essential for wine tastings. Book online in advance! Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

Conveniently located near Wanaka, making it an easy stop. Reddit

🥂 Easy-Drinking Wines

Wines are noted as very easy to drink, especially the rosé. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(257 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about Rippon Vineyard's absolutely stunning location overlooking Lake Wānaka, calling it one of the most beautiful wineries globally. The wine tasting experience is frequently described as fun, informative, and enjoyable, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. Many guests end up purchasing wine to take home, impressed by the quality and easy-drinking nature of the selections.

"One of the most beautiful wineries in the world, easily accessible from Wanaka's city centre. Views were incredible. Photos should tell the entire story.

The wine tasting session was fun and informative. Hard to believe it was free. You do have to make a reservation in advance.

Courtney was very knowledgeable and engaging. We ended up buying a bottle of riesling and we look forward to trying it back home!"

YJ Kwang

"Stunning view point and beautiful wines too. Staff were very friendly and warming to our random stop off for the view and we also purchased a few bottles of wine."

xsenergy4life

"Had lovely wine tasting experience here. You can book wine tasting on their website and it's free. The lady was so friendly and lovely to all the guests. Wines are very easy to drink. Their rose and rose buubly is so delicious! Ended up buying two bottles."

Jenny Son

What People Like

Incredible lake views
Free wine tasting
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Need to book ahead

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rippon Vineyard is easily accessible from Wanaka's city centre, making it a convenient destination. Many visitors opt for a short drive or a taxi. The journey offers scenic views as you approach the vineyard. Reddit

Absolutely! Rippon Vineyard is a perfect spot for a day trip from Wanaka, offering stunning scenery and wine tasting opportunities. You can easily spend a few hours enjoying the views and the wine. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, it is highly recommended to book your wine tasting in advance through their website. While walk-ins might be accommodated if there's availability, reservations ensure your spot. Reddit

The wine tasting experience at Rippon Vineyard is often described as free, though it's always best to confirm current policies when booking. You'll likely be encouraged to purchase a bottle after your tasting. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Rippon Vineyard website for the most up-to-date information on their cellar door operating times. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire vineyard offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include the areas overlooking Lake Wānaka with the vines in the foreground, and any vantage point that captures the majestic mountain backdrop. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally welcomed at Rippon Vineyard, especially to capture the stunning natural beauty. However, always be mindful of other guests and any specific areas where photography might be restricted. Reddit

🍽️ 🍷 Wine & Dining

Rippon Vineyard is known for its biodynamic wines. They offer a range of varietals, with their rosé and rosé bubbly being particularly praised for being delicious and easy to drink. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase bottles of wine directly from the cellar door. Many visitors end up buying bottles after enjoying their tasting experience. Reddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Rippon Vineyard is primarily a wine destination, its stunning natural setting can still be enjoyed by families. The expansive grounds offer space for children to explore (under supervision, of course), and the beautiful lake views provide a pleasant backdrop. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. Pack some snacks and drinks for the little ones, as the focus is on wine tasting. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Rippon Vineyard is an absolute dream for photographers. The iconic views of Lake Wānaka with the vineyard in the foreground are legendary and highly 'grammable. Reddit+1 Plan your visit for the golden hours (late morning or late afternoon) to capture the most dramatic light. Don't just stick to the main viewpoints; explore the edges of the vineyard for unique compositions. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the vineyard's operations while you're snapping away.

💍 Couples & Special Occasions

With its incredibly romantic setting, Rippon Vineyard is a top-tier wedding venue, and it's easy to see why. Reddit The breathtaking views and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a picturesque and memorable experience. Enjoy a leisurely wine tasting together, perhaps purchasing a bottle to share while soaking in the panoramic scenery. It's a perfect destination for a romantic outing or a special celebration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rippon Wine Experience

Rippon Vineyard is renowned for its commitment to biodynamic winemaking, a holistic approach that emphasizes ecological balance and sustainability. This philosophy is reflected in the quality and character of their wines. Visitors often praise the easy-drinking nature of their selections, with the rosé and rosé bubbly frequently highlighted as particularly delicious and enjoyable. The knowledgeable staff at the cellar door provide an informative and engaging tasting experience, making it easy for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and newcomers to appreciate the nuances of each varietal. Reddit+1

Beyond the tasting itself, the stunning lakeside setting elevates the entire experience. The vineyard's location overlooking Lake Wānaka provides a picturesque backdrop that complements the wine tasting perfectly. It's not just about the wine; it's about the sensory journey that combines taste, sight, and the serene atmosphere of the New Zealand landscape. Reddit+1

For those interested in the history and ethos of the winery, learning about its long-standing family ownership and dedication to biodynamic practices adds another layer of appreciation. This deep connection to the land and tradition is palpable throughout the estate, making a visit to Rippon a truly memorable occasion.

Capturing the Iconic Views

The breathtaking scenery at Rippon Vineyard is a primary reason many visitors flock to this destination. The expansive grounds offer unparalleled views of Lake Wānaka, with the vineyard's vines creating a beautiful foreground against the majestic mountain ranges. It's a photographer's paradise, with every angle offering a postcard-worthy shot. Reddit+1

When visiting, make sure to allow ample time for photography. The best light for capturing the landscape often occurs in the late morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts a warm glow over the lake and mountains. Look for vantage points that frame the lake with the vineyard's signature rows of vines. The reflections on the water can be particularly stunning on calm days. Reddit

Beyond the grand vistas, don't forget to capture the intimate details of the vineyard – the texture of the grape leaves, the rustic charm of the cellar door buildings, and the interplay of light and shadow among the vines. These smaller elements can add depth and narrative to your photographic collection, telling a more complete story of your visit to this iconic New Zealand winery.

You may also like