Mt Difficulty

The Winery that put Central Otago on the Map

Established in 1992, and located at the base of the mountain for which it is named, Mt Difficulty is Central Otago’s leading artisan winegrower with a pioneering heritage in the Bannockburn sub-region.

Mt Difficulty was among the first to plant vineyards on the south bank of the Kawarau River, and today its terroir-driven wines are among the most famous New Zealand Pinot Noirs in the world. Sourcing fruit from 187 acres of some of Bannockburn’s oldest and best-sited vineyards, Mt Difficulty winemaking stresses ethical viticulture and minimal intervention to produce Pinot Noirs that express their personality and reflect their unique home.

The Cellar Door at Mt Difficulty, perched high on a rocky outcrop above the winery on Felton Road, showcases our wines with expansive views across the dramatic rugged rock and thyme landscape of the Cromwell Basin.

The Winery Restaurant at Mt Difficulty provides a relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy a delicious lunch. The outdoor terrace is the perfect spot to take in the flavours of the region while enjoying the uniquely Central Otago views. During winter enjoy the transformed landscape behind glass, with fireplaces providing warmth and ambience.