Welcome to Taste Wine Guides
You are now beginning your journey with Taste Wine-Guides! An experience designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of wine, scenery and culture that defines this unique region of central Otago!Before we embark on this journey through the vineyards, let's take a moment to prepare ourselves with a brief, meditative exercise, to fully open our senses to the beauty and flavours ahead.As this is a driving tour, it is essential to remain alert and focused on the road, while also preparing your mind and senses for the immersive experience.Here's a brief and safe meditative exercise to enhance your awareness and enjoyment.Settle in.Ensure you are comfortably seated.Adjust your seat and mirrors, so you are comfortible and can drive safely.Take a few deep breaths, inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your lungs expand fully.Hold for a moment and then exhale gently through your mouth.Repeat this three times to calm your mind and body.While keeping your eyes on the trail, start to bring your attention to the environment around you.Notice the colors of the landscape, the texture of the trail, and the play of light and shadow as you drive.As you drive, think about the deep spiritual connection the Maori people have with this land.Reflect on the concept of tengata whenua, seeing yourself as part of this beautiful environment, not separate from it.Set an intention for your tour.It could be to learn more about the wines, appreciate the beauty of the land, or connect with the cultural stories you'll hear today.Let this intention guide your experience, and let taste wine-guides do the rest!Now, sit back, relax and give way to the journey ahead.Welcome, to Taste-Wine-Guides!
Lake Hayes
As we continue our drive, if you look to your left, you'll see the stunningly serene Lake Hayes, a place rich in both beauty, and history. Known to the Māori as Te fhaka-ata a Hakitekura, or 'the reflection of Hakitekura, this lake carries a legend of bravery. The story tells of Hakitekura, a young woman who leapt from the cliffs of Cecil Peak into Lake Wakatipu as a test of courage. For the Māori, the lake’s shimmering waters reflected not only the surrounding mountains but also the strength of her spirit.In the mid-1800s, this area became a hub for European settlers during Central Otago’s gold-rush. They renamed it after D. Hayes, one of the early pioneers. The fertile lands around the lake supported farming and trade, while the lake itself was a vital meeting place for the growing community, of Arrowtown.Today, Lake Hayes is cherished for its breathtaking reflections of the Remarkables and Coronet Peak. You’ll often see people walking or cycling the scenic trail that loops around the lake’s edge. It’s also a haven for wildlife, with native birds and aquatic life thriving in its waters.Here’s another interesting fact: Lake Hayes is actually one of the warmest lakes in Central Otago during the summer months. Unlike some of the deeper alpine lakes in the region, its relatively shallow depth allows it to warm up quickly under the summer sun. This makes it a popular spot for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Arrowtown
As we continue our journey, just a short detour away, is the enchanting town of Arrowtown, one of the most picturesque and historically rich destinations in Central Otago.Nestled along the banks of the Arrow River, this charming settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s gold rush era and the vibrant cultural tapestry that followed.Arrowtown was founded in the 1860s during the Otago GoldRush, when thousands of miners flocked to the area in search of fortune.At its peak, the town was bustling with hopeful prospectors who set up makeshift camps along the Arrow River, a site known for its rich gold deposits.To this day, you can still try your luck at gold-panning in the very same river, a hands-on way to connect with the region's storied past.One of the most compelling aspects of Arrowtown is its Chinese miners’ settlement, located just along the river.After gold supplies dwindled, European miners moved on, but Chinese miners arrived, resilient and resourceful, to eke out a living from the remaining deposits.Their contribution to the town’s history is commemorated in the preserved stone huts and interpretive displays that tell the story of their hardships, resilience, and cultural influence.It’s a humbling reminder of the diverse communities that shaped Central Otago.Today, Arrowtown’s Buckingham Street is a delightful blend of the old and the new.The street retains its 19th-century charm, with heritage buildings that now house boutique shops, galleries, and cafés.Walking along the street feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern comforts.You’ll find everything from artisan goods to locally made wines and gourmet treats, making it a perfect stop to pick up unique souvenirs or indulge in a quiet moment with a coffee.Arrowtown also boasts breathtaking natural beauty.Surrounded by mountains, the town is particularly magical in autumn, when the leaves turn vivid shades of gold, red, and orange, creating a spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide.For outdoor enthusiasts, there are scenic walking and cycling trails, including the Arrow River Trail, which offers stunning views and a tranquil escape.
Entering Gibbston Valley
As we cross into the Gibbston Valley, often called the ‘Valley of the Vines,’ take a moment to appreciate the dramatic beauty that surrounds you.Nestled between rugged schist mountains and the winding Kahwedo River, this region is one of the most renowned wine-producing areas in New Zealand and a crown jewel of Central Otago.Known for its cool climate and extreme growing conditions, Gibbston Valley is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional Pinot Noir.The vineyards here are among the highest altitude in Central Otago, with a unique terroir shaped by schist-rich soils, long sun-drenched days, and crisp, cool nights.These conditions are ideal for growing Pinot Noir, a notoriously finicky grape.The schist soils are particularly important. They drain exceptionally well, forcing the vines to dig deep for water and nutrients.This struggle leads to smaller, more concentrated berries, resulting in wines with remarkable intensity and complexity.When you arrive at your first tasting stop, let’s talk about how to make the most of your experience.Start by observing the color in your glass.Pinot Noir from Gibbston Valley often has a delicate ruby hyu that belies its bold character.Next, swirl the wine gently to release its aromas.Lean in and breathe deeply. You might notice red cherry, cranberry, and raspberry notes, often mingled with hints of spice, dried herbs, or even a touch of earthy minerality, a hallmark of the region's schist soils.As you taste, focus on the balance.Gibbston Valley Pinot Noir is known for its vibrant acidity, silky tannins, and elegant structure.You’ll likely sense bright, red fruit flavors upfront, evolving into more savory notes like mushroom, or forest floor on the finish.The cool climate here allows the wines to retain a freshness and energy that sets them apart from warmer regions.Gibbston Valley isn’t just about the wine, it’s about the connection between the land and the people who care for it.Many winemakers in this region embrace sustainable and organic practices, respecting the concept of kaitiakitanga, or guardianship of the land.Their goal is not just to produce exceptional wine but to preserve this extraordinary landscape for generations to come.As we continue deeper into the valley, let the stories of the land, the wine, and the people who craft it enhance your tasting journey.Remember, each glass you lift carries the essence of this unique region and the passion of those who nurture its vines.
Prepare to Turn Right
Turn Right on Chard Rd
First Stop - Chard Farm Winery
As we approach Chard Farm Winery, it’s hard not to be captivated by the stunning drive that leads to its doorstep, a winding road perched high above the Kawedo River, with breathtaking views of the rugged Central Otago landscape.This striking location is just the beginning of Chard Farm’s story, a tale of vision, determination, and a deep respect for the land.Chard Farm’s roots go back to the late 1970s when the Chard family originally operated this site as a working farm.It wasn’t until the mid-1980s that the property took its first steps toward becoming a winery.At the time, Central Otago was still an untapped frontier for viticulture, considered too harsh and cold for successful grape growing.But Patrick, Janelle, and the team behind Chard Farm saw an opportunity to transform this rugged farmland into a world-class vineyard.One of the most interesting aspects of Chard Farm’s story is its pioneering role in Central Otago’s wine history.It was among the first wineries to challenge the skepticism about the region’s suitability for growing Pinot Noir.The winery planted its first vines in the early 1990s, driven by a belief in the potential of Central Otago’s schist soils, long sun-drenched days, and cool nights.The team’s hard work quickly paid off, as their wines began gaining recognition for their exceptional quality and unique expression of the region’s terroir .What truly sets Chard Farm apart is its focus on single-vineyard expressions.The winery owns several vineyards across Central Otago, including key sites in Gibbston, Lowburn, and Bannockburn.Each vineyard offers distinct characteristics, influenced by its microclimate, soil composition, and altitude.This allows Chard Farm to produce wines that showcase the diversity of Central Otago, while still maintaining the elegant and balanced style for which they are renowned.Chard Farm’s Pinot Noir is undoubtedly the flagship wine, often described as both powerful and refined.With flavors ranging from bright red cherry and raspberry, to earthy spices and subtle floral notes, their Pinot Noir captures the essence of Central Otago’s rugged beauty.But the winery doesn’t stop there. Its portfolio also includes exquisite white wines, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gri, each crafted with the same dedication to quality and regional authenticity.Beyond the wines, Chard Farm is committed to sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.Recognizing the importance of preserving this unique landscape, the winery integrates organic principles and minimizes its environmental footprint wherever possible.This philosophy reflects a deep connection to the land, ensuring that the beauty and vitality of Central Otago can be enjoyed for generations to come.When you visit Chard Farm, it’s not just the wines that leave an impression, it’s the sense of place.The cellar door, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Kawedo Gorge, offers an inviting and intimate experience.As you taste their wines, you can’t help but feel the history, passion, and artistry that have shaped this remarkable winery.Chard Farm’s story is one of transformation, a testament to the courage to take risks, the dedication to nurturing the land, and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking.As you continue your journey, take with you the spirit of Chard Farm, a place where vision and perseverance turned a remote hillside into a beacon of Central Otago’s wine story.
Chard Farm
The Argonath, or the Pillars of the Kings
As you leave Chard Farm and continue your journey, keep an eye on the breathtaking landscape around you. If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings, you’re about to pass a location that might feel eerily familiar. Just ahead, nestled within the dramatic cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge, is where filmmakers brought to life one of Middle-earth’s most awe-inspiring landmarks—The Argonath, the Pillars of the Kings.In The Fellowship of the Ring, these towering stone statues, carved in the likeness of Isildur and Anárion, stand as ancient sentinels along the Anduin River, marking the northern boundary of Gondor. While the statues themselves were created with CGI, the rugged grandeur of this location provided the perfect real-world backdrop for the scene. The sheer cliffs and deep turquoise waters of the Kawarau River already evoke a sense of history and power, making it easy to imagine immense stone kings watching over the land.For those who love both wine and cinematic history, this moment offers a unique intersection of culture—where New Zealand’s world-class wine country meets the legendary landscapes of Middle-earth. Take a moment to appreciate the view, let your imagination wander, and then continue on toward your next tasting, knowing you’ve just passed through a little slice of movie magic.
The Kawarau River and Māori
As you travel through the majestic landscapes of Central Otago, it is impossible to ignore the lifeblood of this region: the Kawarau River.For centuries, this winding waterway has been more than just a scenic feature.It has been a source of sustenance, a spiritual entity, and a key to understanding the deep connection between the Māori people and this land.The Kawarau River, known in te reo Māori as Te - Awa Kawarau, plays a significant role in Māori mythology and daily life.In Māori tradition, water is considered a taonga, or treasure, and rivers like the Kawarau are seen as sacred entities.They are considered the veins of Papatūānuku, the Earth Mother, carrying life and energy through the land.The Kawarau River was part of the great network of ara tafito, or traditional pathways, used by the Māori for travel, trade, and exploration.The Waitaha, Ngāti Māmoe, and later the Ngāi Tahu tribes, used the river as a vital route connecting the interior of Central Otago with the coastal regions.The riverbanks served as places for seasonal camps, where mahina kai, or food resources such as eels, native birds, and fern root, were gathered and preserved.The Kawarau was also deeply connected to the Māori’s use of pounamu, or greenstone, a prized resource that was transported from the West Coast to the interior via trade routes that intersected the river.Pounamu, often referred to as the jade of New Zealand, was used to craft tools, weapons, and ornaments and held immense spiritual and cultural significance.When European settlers arrived in the 19th century, the Kawarau River’s role shifted dramatically.The river became a focal point of the Otago Gold Rush, with its banks and waters teeming with miners searching for gold.For the Māori, this influx of settlers and the disruption of the land marked a significant cultural and environmental change.The once pristine waters of the Kawarau, teeming with life, were now altered by mining activity.Despite this, the Māori continued to adapt and maintain their connection to the river.The Māori view of the Kawarau River goes beyond physical utility.It is deeply spiritual.The river is imbued with mauri, or life force, and is seen as an ancestral connection to their whakapapa, or genealogy.This means the river is not just a natural feature but a part of their identity, a living entity deserving of respect and care.This respect translates into modern practices.Many iwi have been involved in environmental restoration projects along the Kawedo River to ensure that it remains a thriving ecosystem for future generations.These efforts reflect the Māori principle of kaitiakitanga, or guardianship and stewardship of the land and water.Interestingly, the Kawarau River also plays a subtle but important role in the region’s modern wine industry.The river’s presence influences the terroir of Gibbston, where some of New Zealand’s most celebrated wines are produced.The schist soils, which give Central Otago wines their distinctive minerality, were deposited over millennia by the river’s flow.Its cool breezes temper the summer heat, creating the perfect conditions for growing Pinot Noir, the grape for which the region is most famous.In many ways, the wines of the Gibbston are a modern extension of the Māori’s respect for the land.Just as they saw the Kawarau as a life-giving force, winemakers today recognize the river’s influence on the unique flavors and characteristics of their wines.Today, the Kawarau River remains a bridge between the past and present.For Māori, it continues to hold spiritual significance and serves as a reminder of their deep connection to the land.For visitors and locals alike, it is a place of beauty, adventure, and reflection.If you ever stand by the riverbanks and listen to the rush of its waters, you might feel a sense of timelessness, a connection to those who have walked this land for centuries.Imagine the Māori paddling their waka (canoes) along its length, traders carrying pounamu and provisions, and families gathering food from its abundant resources.Imagine, too, the river’s role in shaping the vineyards and the wines you enjoy today.As you continue on your ride, consider how the Kawarau River connects the old and the new, the natural and the cultivated.The river’s story is not just one of geography but of people, of those who have cared for this land, drawn life from its waters, and celebrated its gifts.At your first stop, when you sip a glass of Pinot Noir from Gibbston, let it remind you of the Kawarau River’s enduring legacy.Its waters have shaped this land for millennia, and through the wine, its story flows onward, an unbroken thread connecting the Māori traditions of the past to the vibrant culture of today.
Prepare to turn right on Gibbston Highway
Rockburn
At Rockburn Cellar Door, you’ll find a true reflection of Central Otago’s diverse and unique terroir.Named after the rugged rock-strewn landscapes that surround it, Rockburn produces wines that are as bold and expressive as the land itself.The Pinot Noir is the standout here, known for its silky tannins, dark cherry, and earthy spice notes, an award-winning wine that has put Rockburn on the global map.But it’s not just Pinot Noir, don’t miss their aromatic whites, like Riesling and Pinot Gri, which showcase vibrant fruit and refreshing acidity.The cellar door offers an intimate tasting experience, often led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the winemaking process and the unique challenges of Gibbston Valley’s high-altitude vineyards.Just a short distance away is the Gibbston Tavern, a charming spot perfect for relaxing after your tastings. With rustic vibes and hearty local fare, the tavern is a favorite for its wood-fired pizzas and craft beers. Together, Rockburn and Gibbston Tavern provide the perfect pairing of fine wine and warm hospitality in the heart of Gibbston Valley.
Turn Right on Coal Pit Rd.
Rockburn Tasting Tip
Here’s a quick wine tasting tip:1.Start with your eyes, tilt the glass slightly and look at the wine's color and clarity.A pale, bright hue , often suggests a crisp, young wine, while a deeper color can indicate richness or age.2.Next, swirl the wine gently to release its aromas.Take a deep sniff and try to identify specific scents, think fruit, spices, or even earthy notes.3.Now, take a sip and let it coat your palate.Pay attention to the balance of flavors: sweetness, acidity, tannins, and body.4.Finally, notice the finish, how long the flavors linger after you swallow.The longer it stays, the more complex the wine!
Rockburn Cellar Door
Thank you for visiting Rockburn Cellar Door - Turn Right
Māori Kaitiakitanga—Guardianship of the land
Central Otago is a region of incredible biodiversity, and as you drive through Gibbston Valley, you’ll see more than just vineyards.This area is home to a variety of native plants and animals, many of which play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the vineyards.One of the most prominent features of the landscape is the tussock grass that blankets the hillsides.These hardy plants are well-adapted to the region’s harsh conditions and are vital for preventing soil erosion, which is essential for the sustainability of the vineyards.You might also spot some of the local wildlife, such as the native birds that make their homes among the vines.Species like the bellbird, tui, and fantail are commonly seen flitting between the rows of grapes, their presence a sign of a healthy ecosystem.These birds not only add to the natural beauty of the area but also help control pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions in the vineyards.Here in Gibbston Valley, there’s a growing movement towards organic and biodynamic farming practices. These methods are about more than just avoiding synthetic chemicals; they’re about fostering a healthy, balanced ecosystem in the vineyard. Most vineyards in the region have adopted biodynamic farming. This approach treats the vineyard as a living organism, where every element, soil, plants, animals, and even the phases of the moon, are interconnected.In biodynamic farming, natural composts and herbal preparations are used to enhance the vitality of the soil, promoting biodiversity and resilience in the vines.The aim is to create wines that are a true reflection of their environment, with minimal intervention from the winemaker.This low-intervention philosophy extends to the winemaking process itself, where native yeasts are often used for fermentation, and the use of sulfites is kept to a minimum.The result is wines that are not only pure and expressive but also kind to the earth.This commitment to sustainability is a natural extension of the Māori principle of Kaitiakitanga, or, the guardianship of the land.It’s a philosophy that recognizes the responsibility of the current generation to care for the land so that it can continue to provide for future generations.As you sip on these wines, know that you’re not just enjoying a delicious beverage; you’re supporting practices that respect and sustain the natural world.
Turn Left on to Gibbston Back Rd.
The Story of Coxs' Vineyard
As you approach Cox’s Vineyard, you’re stepping into a piece of Gibbston Valley’s history, where family dedication and a love for the land have come together to create something truly special.Established in 1999 by Doug Cox, the vineyard began its journey as a supplier of premium grapes to some of Central Otago’s finest wineries.The exceptional quality of its fruit contributed to award-winning wines, including the renowned Takapoto Single Vineyard Gibbston Pinot Noir, which earned international recognition.In 2013, Doug’s son Simon Cox and his partner Leah Seifert took the reins, ushering in a new chapter for the vineyard.They began crafting their own wines, releasing the first Cox’s Vineyard Pinot Noir in 2016.Situated on a sheltered, north-facing slope along Gibbston Back Road, the vineyard thrives in the valley’s schist soils and cool climate, producing vibrant and expressive Pinot Noir, Pinot Gri, and Chardonnay.Cox’s Vineyard is more than just a winery, it’s a creative hub.Their cellar door, set in a beautifully restored 1960s school building, also houses the Seifert Gallery, featuring artwork from across New Zealand and the Pacific.This unique combination of wine and art offers visitors an experience that goes beyond the bottle, immersing them in the culture and creativity of Central Otago.Focused on sustainable practices and minimal intervention winemaking, Cox’s Vineyard is a testament to the family’s commitment to authenticity and quality.With every sip, you’re tasting not just the wine, but the passion, history, and artistry that define this boutique vineyard in the heart of Gibbston Valley.
Turn left on to Cox's Rd.
Terroir
The word "terroir" is one of the most revered terms in the world of wine, evoking a sense of place, history, and connection to the land.But where did this term come from, and what makes it so significant in the art of winemaking?The term "terroir" comes from the Latin word "terra", meaning "land" or "earth."Its modern French derivative, "terroir," evolved during the Middle Ages to describe not just the physical land but also the unique qualities imparted by the environment.It’s a word deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, used initially to explain why certain crops, grains, fruits, and later grapes, tasted different depending on where they were grown.By the 14th century, the word began to appear in French agricultural texts, used primarily to describe the unique character of a region’s soil, climate, and landscape.Over time, it became closely associated with wine, as farmers and winemakers noticed distinct differences in the flavor and quality of grapes grown in varying locations.What Does Terroir Really Mean?In the simplest sense, terroir encompasses the environmental factors that affect a crop’s qualities.For wine, this includes soil composition, climate, topography, sunlight exposure, and even the microbiome present in the vineyard.However, terroir is more than just geography.It’s a philosophy, a way of understanding how the land and its natural conditions influence the characteristics of a wine.For example, wines from volcanic soils often have a distinct minerality, while those grown in limestone-rich regions can carry a crispness and bright acidity.Grapes grown in cooler climates tend to produce wines with higher acidity and more delicate fruit flavors, while warmer regions yield richer, bolder wines.Interestingly, terroir doesn’t exclude the human touch.The term also acknowledges the influence of traditional farming methods, vineyard management practices, and winemaking techniques passed down through generations.In this sense, terroir becomes a blend of nature and nurture, combining what the earth provides with what humans contribute to the process.While the concept of terroir is most famously associated with France, where it forms the backbone of the Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) system, it is now a global term.Regions like Burgundy, Champagne, and Bordeaux are celebrated for their terroir-driven wines, where the location of the vineyard can have as much, if not more, influence on the wine as the grape variety itself.But the concept is not limited to France.The idea of terroir is just as applicable in Napa Valley, where fog from the Pacific Ocean shapes the flavors of the grapes, or in New Zealand’s Central Otago, where the schist soils and alpine breezes define its vibrant Pinot Noir.In recent years, scientists have delved deeper into understanding terroir , confirming that factors like soil microbiota play a role in shaping wine’s flavor profile.It’s now believed that the unique microbial communities in different vineyards can influence the fermentation process, subtly altering the taste and aroma of the final product.This research adds a fascinating layer to our understanding of terroir , bridging the gap between tradition and modern science.Terroir has also become a powerful storytelling tool in the wine industry.Wineries use the concept to highlight their connection to the land, emphasizing the unique characteristics of their vineyards.A wine labeled as being from a specific vineyard or plot often commands higher value because it promises an experience tied to a singular place—a snapshot of the earth in a glass.At its heart, terroir is about identity.It speaks to the idea that a wine is not just a product of a grape variety but a reflection of its origin.It ties the drinker to the vineyard, the winemaker, and the land itself, offering a sensory journey that transcends time and place.
Turn Left-In to Coxs' Vineyard
Cox's Vineyard
Turn Right - To Gibbston Back Rd.
The Story of Brennan Wines
Brennan Wines
Thank you for visiting Brennan Wines - Turn Left
The Story of Mt. Rosa Wines
Mt. Rosa Winery
Thank you for visiting Mt. Rosa Wines
Leaving Mt. Rosa Wines
The Story of Kinross
Kinross, located on the historic Kinross Station, established in the late 1860s by Thomas Kinross, has evolved into a central hub for wine enthusiasts in Gibbston Valley.This transformation began in 2014 when Kinross envisioned creating a collaborative space to showcase the diversity of Central Otago wines.They partnered with boutique wineries, Valli, Coal Pit, Hawkshead, Wild Irishman, and their own label, Kinross, to serve as the exclusive cellar door for these labels.This unique collaboration allows visitors to experience a curated selection of wines from multiple producers in one location, each reflecting the distinct terroir of the region.In 2024, after nearly nine years of partnership, Kinross ended its collaboration with Coal Pit, marking a new chapter in its journey.Despite this change, Kinross continues to offer an unparalleled wine-tasting experience, representing esteemed labels such as Valli, Hawkshead, Wild Irishman, and their own Kinross wines.This model not only provides a platform for boutique wineries to reach a broader audience but also enriches visitors' experiences by offering a diverse array of wines and stories in one setting.The success of this collaborative approach was recognized in 2024 when Kinross won the inaugural Qualmark New Zealand Wine Tourism Award.Judges praised Kinross for its tailored experiences and commitment to showcasing Central Otago's wine heritage, highlighting the strength and innovation of its partnerships.Through these collaborations , Kinross has become a cornerstone of Gibbston Valley's wine tourism, offering guests a unique opportunity to explore the region's viticultural diversity, and history, in a single, welcoming location.
Kinross Winery & Cellar Door
Farewell and Thank You
As your journey through the beautiful Gibbston Valley comes to a close, we at Taste Wine Guides want to thank you for letting us be a part of your day.Today wasn’t just about tasting incredible wines, it was about immersing yourself in the stories, history, and landscapes that make this region so unique.From the vibrant Pinot Noir that reflects the soul of this land, to the warm smiles of the people who craft it, you’ve experienced a true slice of Central Otago magic.As you drive away from these sunlit vineyards and rugged mountains, take a moment to reflect, on the connections you’ve made today, not just with the wine, but with the land itself.Every glass you raised was a celebration of the hard work, passion, and artistry that define this region.This is just the beginning.Central Otago has many more wine regions and stories waiting to be discovered, each offering its own unique flavor and character.Keep an eye out for more tours coming to the Taste Wine Guides family, and let your curiosity guide you to new adventures in the world of wine.Until we meet again, may your travels be filled with joy, discovery, and, of course, a great bottle of wine to share.Cheers, and see you on your next journey, with Taste Wine Guides!
Welcome to Taste Wine Guides (Crown)
You are now beginning your journey with Taste Wine-Guides! An experience designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of wine, scenery and culture that defines this unique region of central Otago!Before we embark on this journey through the vineyards, let's take a moment to prepare ourselves with a brief, meditative exercise, to fully open our senses to the beauty and flavours ahead.As this is a driving tour, it is essential to remain alert and focused on the trail, while also preparing your mind and senses for the immersive experience.Here's a brief and safe meditative exercise to enhance your awareness and enjoyment.Settle in.Ensure you are comfortably seated.Adjust your feet and hands, so you are comfortable and can drive safely.Take a few deep breaths, inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your lungs expand fully.Hold for a moment and then exhale gently through your mouth.Repeat this three times to calm your mind and body.While keeping your eyes on the road, start to bring your attention to the environment around you.Notice the colors of the landscape, the texture of the trail, and the play of light and shadow as you drive.As you drive, think about the deep spiritual connection the Maori people have with this land.Reflect on the concept of tengata whenua, seeing yourself as part of this beautiful environment, not separate from it.Set an intention for your tour.It could be to learn more about the wines, appreciate the beauty of the land, or connect with the cultural stories you'll hear today.Let this intention guide your experience, and let taste wine-guides do the rest!Now, sit back, relax and give way to the journey ahead.Welcome, to Taste-Wine-Guides!
