Rippon: The Pioneer's View

When Rolfe Mills planted vines at Rippon in 1976, skeptics said he was 'almost certifiably crazy.' The property overlooks Lake Wanaka with the Southern Alps as backdrop - arguably the most beautiful vineyard view in the world. Today, Nick Mills continues his father's biodynamic legacy.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Photograph the "World's Best View" Adventure · Free

   The Lake Wanaka view from the tasting terrace is legendary.

   Walk to the tasting room terrace before or after your tasting. Lake Wanaka spreads below with the Southern Alps rising behind. This is regularly voted the world's most beautiful vineyard view. Best light: afternoon, or golden hour for drama.

   Log Memory
2. 2 Taste the "Mature Vine" Pinot Wine · Price: low

   Wines from the oldest vines in Central Otago.

   Book a tasting (~$20-30) and specifically request the Mature Vine Pinot Noir. These vines were planted by Rolfe Mills in 1982-84 - the oldest commercial Pinot Noir vines in Central Otago.

   Log Memory
3. 3 Ask About the 1881 Gold Medal History · Price: low · Optional

   Central Otago wine history goes back further than most people know.

   Ask staff about Jean Desire Feraud, who won a gold medal for Central Otago 'Burgundy' at the Sydney International Exhibition in 1881. The modern pioneers (Mills, Brady, Pinckney) were reviving a tradition, not starting one.

   Log Memory

Insider tips

• The music festival "Rippon" is held here in February - book months ahead

• Rolfe Mills died in 2016, but his son Nick continues the biodynamic philosophy

• The property was first farmed in 1912 by the Mills family - vines came later

• Swim in Lake Wanaka after your tasting - the beach is a 5-minute drive