Rifters Tasting Room
Monday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Tuesday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Wednesday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Thursday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Friday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Saturday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Sunday12:00 – 4:00 pm.
Nestled in the historic (and utterly charming) Dudley’s Cottage on Buckingham Street in Arrowton, Rifters Tasting Room is home to some of Aotearoa’s best small-batch spirits.
Founded in 2020 by Kiwi builders-turned-distillers Hamish and Stu, Rifters has grown from a hobby into an award-winning distillery. Their Original Dry Gin quickly won a gold medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Award, paving the way for over 50 more accolades worldwide. Today their collection includes six distinctive gins, smooth vodka and a locally crafted whisky – all inspired by the rugged landscapes and native botanicals of Central Otago.
In 2023, the Rifters Tasting Room opened its doors, offering visitors a warm and welcoming space to experience these world-class creations. Complimentary tastings around the barrel provide a relaxed introduction to the range, while masterclasses led by a Rifters distiller offer a deeper dive into the art and passion behind every bottle. These popular sessions include a delicious shared platter to complete the experience.
While the tasting room focuses on showcasing distilled delights, it’s conveniently located next to The Dishery, a beloved local café offering breakfast and lunch in a picturesque garden setting. Plus, Rifters’ proximity to the Historic Chinese Village adds a fascinating glimpse into Arrowtown’s gold rush era.
Sustainability is at the heart of Rifters’ ethos. The business has eliminated single-use plastics, champions eco-friendly practices, and supports initiatives like Love Queenstown Community Fund to help preserve the region’s pristine beauty.
Words by Maggie Worthington & Photography by Anna Briggs
Information not correct? Report an error
Location
4 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown
Nearby Places
Dorothy Browns Cinema
Answer us this: When was the last time your at-home movie experience included a gin bar, artisanal cheese platters, a quaint bookshop, and a friendly resident cat named Sox?...
Astor Bristed
In our opinion, few towns offer a more beautiful backdrop for showcasing great works by New Zealand artists.
Bunnies
Located in a sunny pocket on Arrowtown's Ramshaw Lane, Bunnies is a designer boutique with a twist.
Similar Places
Mt Rosa
A little off the beaten track in Gibbston, proudly stands the home of Mt Rosa – a wine label and cellar door that has played a pivotal role in shaping the...
Yonder
Come as you are. The neon-lit invitation above Yonder’s entranceway is more than just an aesthetic.
odd saint
Residing in a wistful schist stone building on the corner of Camp Street, odd saint is a neighbourhood eatery for those who worship great food and great service.
Bespoke Kitchen
When the hustle and bustle of central Queenstown gets too much, there’s a nearby oasis offering a moment of tranquillity.
Uncovering Queenstown: Your Guide to Exploring The Wider Region
From the tranquillity of Glenorchy to the quaint streets of Arrowtown and the lush vineyards of Gibbston, there's plenty on offer throughout the wider region of Queenstown. We've ventured from one end of the region to the other, uncovering the best places to eat, drink, shop, explore and stay. So, put some time aside and dig a little deeper, and you'll discover plenty of pockets deserving of your attention.
One of the Locals: The Insider's Guide to Queenstown
