Cardrona Distillery

Perched high in the Cardrona Valley, this award-winning distillery is a must-visit for anyone with a taste for handcrafted spirits. Set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and golden tussock, Cardrona Distillery produces some of New Zealand's finest single malt whisky, gin, and liqueurs. The distillery's story is one of passion and precision, from its pristine alpine water source to its copper pot stills. A tour here is as much about the stunning setting as it is about the spirits – you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the craft and a bottle or two for the road.

Highlights & What to See

• Distillery Tour & Tasting – Dive into the art of whisky and gin making, from grain to glass, with a guided tour that ends with a generous tasting flight.
• Cardrona Gin Experience – Learn about the botanicals that go into their award-winning gins, including a signature blend featuring local alpine ingredients.
• Whisky Cask Tasting – For the connoisseur, book a premium tasting that includes samples straight from the barrel – a rare treat.
• Cellar Door & Shop – Browse limited-edition releases, merchandise, and pick up a bottle or two as a souvenir. The staff are wonderfully knowledgeable and happy to help you choose.
• The Cardrona Valley Views – Even if you're not a spirits fan, the drive through the valley is spectacular, with the distillery's copper stills gleaming in the tasting room window.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours for a tour and tasting. If you're just popping into the cellar door for a quick purchase, 30 minutes is plenty. The distillery is a perfect pit stop on a day trip from Wanaka or as part of a loop through the Crown Range. Book ahead in peak season to secure your spot.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wanaka – Just a 20-minute drive away, this lakeside town offers cafés, boutiques, and the iconic #ThatWanakaTree.
• Roys Peak – For hikers, the challenging but rewarding Roys Peak Track starts near Wanaka and offers panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
• Cardrona Hotel – A historic gold-rush era pub just up the road, perfect for a hearty meal or a cold beer after your distillery visit.
• Crown Range Road – One of New Zealand's highest sealed roads, this scenic drive connects Wanaka to Queenstown and passes the distillery – a stunning route with plenty of photo stops.

Please check official sources for current details.