About
Roots Gin Shack + Tasting Room stands out as Marlborough's most authentic craft gin experience, located on scenic Rapaura Road in the heart of the region's wine country. This boutique distillery produces small-batch gins that capture the essence of New Zealand's South Island, and it's become a must-visit for spirits enthusiasts who want to taste where the magic happens. With a genuine 5.0-star rating from nearly 50 reviews, Roots has earned its reputation by combining quality craft spirits with genuine hospitality.
Visitors should expect a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere—this is a real working distillery, not a corporate tasting room. You'll typically spend 1–1.5 hours sampling gins in a friendly setting where the team genuinely knows their product and loves talking about it. It suits couples looking for something different, small groups of spirit lovers, and solo travellers who want to chat with locals. Book ahead during peak season (December–February), and plan for tastings that include local tonics and garnishes that elevate each serve. The experience is intimate enough that you'll often chat with the distillers themselves.
Roots fits perfectly into a Marlborough wine tour loop—many visitors combine it with nearby Rapaura Road wineries and the Marlborough Sounds scenic drives. Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are ideal for visiting when the crowds thin but the weather's still excellent. It's within 30 minutes of Blenheim town centre, making it an easy half-day addition to any Marlborough itinerary.
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