Venue to offer taste of Central Otago

Owners and operators of The Brae — Tastings & Taps, Paul and Brigitte Tait. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Owners and operators of The Brae — Tastings & Taps, Paul and Brigitte Tait. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
With a new name and a renewed focus, Cromwell’s favourite cellar door hopes to offer a taste of what is on offer in Central Otago to locals and tourists alike.

Formerly known as the Scott Base Cellar Door, the venue would now operate as The Brae — Tastings & Taps.

Owner and operator Brigitte Tait said the new name reflected both the venue’s elevated location and commitment to creating a relaxed social space for the community.

Mrs Tait wanted locals to know with the name change the venue hoped to do more than just wine tastings, showcasing as much of Central Otago’s goods as possible, whether it be beer, wine or cheese.

"It’s a place where you can pop in for a drink, catch up with friends, and feel part of something local and vibrant."

As well as showcasing Central Otago’s produce, The Brae hoped to put on events for locals, like Hoptoberfest, where people could get together to celebrate the end of winter and sample beers from around the region.

The venue would still cater for wine tastings as they had always done, she said.

"We’ve got beautiful wines there, and we’re doing fun things with different slight options where they can mix and match the different wines."

The change of name comes as the vineyard The Brae is located on changed ownership.

Queenstown couple Brett and Hollis Giddens recently bought the vineyard formerly owned by Allan Scott, who created Scott Base Wines.

"We’re incredibly grateful to have the support of the new owners. It’s a rare and special thing to have a space like this, just up the hill, where everyone feels welcome," she said.

The Cellar Door will reopen its doors on August 15.