Setting
Approaching Tussock Ridge vineyard along a dirt road on the hilltop near the Alexandra airport, you feel close to the sky. Tastings are under an awning and all around are the eight mountain ranges for which the winery is named.

Things to know
The vineyard was established in 2001 by Mark Borrie and Trevor Deaker who enjoy fine wines and the Otago landscape. They grow pinot noir and pinot gris, producing the easy-drinking Trail Rider Pinot Noir (a reference to the Central Otago rail trail, which runs along the bottom of the hill), and an estate range, as well as a barrel selection in good vintages. There’s also a refreshing rosé and a late-harvest pinot gris.

Our picks
Try the Estate Pinot Noir and the pinot gris.