Rippon Vineyard in Wanaka, New Zealand is the “most photographed vineyard in the world” according to locals.
![]()
It’s not hard to see why everyone takes this photo (or a similar photo) when visiting.
Location
Close to Queenstown and the more well-known Gibbston Valley is Wanaka.
Wanaka is more laid back and quieter than Queenstown, but just as scenic. You can drive or walk (about 30-40 min) to Rippon Vineyard located on the edge of the main town.
![]()
For the more active or travelers, you can enjoy a scenic walk to the winery on a path beside the lake. The lake path is less direct and takes about an hour to walk (but depends on where you are starting in town). Consider renting a bike while you are in the area.
Tasting Room
The tasting room is situated on top of a hill that overlooks the vineyards and Lake Wanaka.
![]()
The building is new but simple. The straight-forward modern style building does not distract you from the scenery.
Click to view slideshow.
You do not need an extravagant building when you have these views.
![]()
Wine Tasting
Rippon Vineyard is located in the Central Otego wine region.
Central Otego is known for its Pinot Noirs. If you need a break from the pinots, the region also produces delicious pinot gris, riesling, chardonnay, shiraz and dessert and sparkling wines.
![]()
Rippon Vineyard makes very nice Pinots. But, they also have some fantastic German style wines. One of the most unique varietals at Rippon Vineyards is the Osteiner. The Osteiner is a variety born of Riesling & Sylvaner. Their Osteiner is light and refreshing, an “easy drinker” for the summer.
You can enjoy a tasting of their wines during cellar door hours. The tasting is informal and no reservation is required for small groups (6 or less). They have 5 to 7 different wines open daily.
![]()
Rippon does not charge a tasting fee. We recommend leaving a donation for their Habitat Restoration program as a courtesy. Especially, if you are not purchasing any wine. NZD$5-$10 is a nice amount depending on how many wines you try.
Also if you are traveling with a group, reservations are required for 7 or more people. Private tastings are available by advanced request.
Jeffseter Travel’s Picks: Our favorites were 1) the Osteiner and 2) the Emily’s Block Pinot Noir. We left with a bottle of each.
![]()
Recommendations & Tips
This winery is a must see if you are in Wanaka. The walk along the lake (or bike ride) to Rippon is beautiful. If you have a full day, then we suggest taking a walk rather than driving. Be sure to give yourselves enough time to take in the views.
You may even want to buy a bottle to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables outside of the cellar door.
Once you visit, it’s easy to understand why this is the World’s most photographed vineyard.
![]()
![]()
The post Rippon Vineyard: The World’s Most Photographed Vineyard appeared first on Jeffsetter Travel.
