Your Cromwell local for
light bites & bold sips
A Short Break at The Brae
A little unexpected change of plans! Following an appendix operation, Brigitte is taking some time to recover. With our regular team members overseas and our casual crew unavailable, we've made the decision to temporarily close The Brae for the next five days, including this weekend.
We're certainly disappointed to be missing a few days on the hill, especially as this is the first time we've had to close unexpectedly in four years!
So sorry to miss you - we hope to see you back up on the hill another time.
Thanks for your understanding and support — it means a lot.
Closed: Thursday 5th November
Reopening: Friday 13th November
The Brae
noun | /brā/
Definition:
A slope, hillside, or incline, especially one adjacent to a river or valley.
Tastings & Taps
We have a broad selection of award winning Central Otago wines on offer, alongside a curated range of craft beers on tap. Known for our wine flights there is something for everyone!
Opening Hours
Spring Hours:
Friday: 11am - 7.30pm
Saturday & Sunday: 11am - 5pm
Monday & Thursday
12pm- 5pm
*hours subject to change seasonally
A New Name, A Familiar Welcome
Perched on the hillside above Cromwell, formerly known as Scott Base Cellar Door, our little haven has a new name: The Brae, Tastings & Taps. "Brae" is a Scottish word meaning hill, which couldn't be more fitting for our location here on the rise above Cromwell. But it's more than just a reference to the land. The name also reflects our heritage - our own family's Scottish roots, and the rich history of Central Otago, which was shaped by Scottish settlers in the late 1800's.
The Brae is a name that connects the past with the present. It speaks to where we are, where we have come from, and the welcoming, relaxed experience we continue to offer.
So yes, the name has changed, but the welcome hasn’t. The views still stretch wide. The glasses still clink. And the laughter still floats across the vines as the afternoon sun dips low.
Join us up the hill at The Brae — a place to pause, taste, and raise a glass to Central Otago.
What to Expect
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Central Otago wine tasting flights
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Craft beer on tap from local favourites
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Relaxed hilltop setting with orchard and lake views
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Shared platters and light bites made to savour
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Friendly faces, four-legged visitors, and no pressure to rush
Seating & Spaces
We’ve got room to move and plenty of comfy spots to perch, whether you’re here for a long lunch, a quick tasting, or just taking in the view.
Choose a sun drenched table on the lawn, a shaded garden seat, or a quiet nook inside. You’ll also find bean bags, picnic spots, and places for kids (and dogs!) to settle in.
We’re fully accessible, with flat entry and easy pathways. Dogs on leads are always welcome, we’ll have the water bowls ready.
Walk-ins are welcome, but if you’re coming with a group of 6 or more, please book ahead so we can save you a great spot and keep the drinks flowing smoothly.
Southern hospitality during personalised wine tasting
Southern hospitality during personalised wine tasting
Make a Booking
We welcome walk ins but definitely recommend booking ahead if you're planning a visit with a group of 6 or more. Whether you're popping in for a casual bite or joining us for a tasting, we'll always do our best to set aside a space for you to enjoy.
Please use the form to make your booking.