Wine Appreciation in New Zealand
With vineyards stretching down from near Kerikeri in Northland to Central Otago in the South, there are limitless possibilities for getting to know New Zealand wines. Many regions produce a variety of wines from various grapes, as well as specialising in certain varieties. Hence Hawke’s Bay is known for its Chardonnay, Martinborough for its Pinot Noir and Marlborough for its Sauvignon Blanc. The vineyard regions are very picturesque, especially Waiheke Island, the area around Havelock North in Hawke’s Bay and the up and coming region of Upper Moutere near Nelson. Many wineries offer visits and tastings and some have excellent restaurants attached.
Waiheke Island
There are about 12 vineyards on Waiheke Island that are in production. Much of the wine doesn’t leave the island or gets sold well in advance. Mudbrick is the place for lunch to try its own wines and excellent food under a pergola on a deck overlooking the vines. In addition, this beautiful island of farmland, olive groves and vineyards as well as spectacular views of the ocean and neighbouring islands and coastline, offers much to explore.
Stay at stylish Delamore Lodge or the boutique-style Boatshed on Waiheke Island
Hawke’s Bay
Explore the wineries of this traditionally dry and sunny region, famous for its chardonnay but also producing cabernet sauvignon. Some of the most established in the region include Mission Estate and Te Mata Estate and have been joined by more recent ventures including Sileni Estates, CJ Pask winery, Black Barn and Craggy Range. Many offer visits and tastings and some have excellent restaurants. Perhaps also try to visit Clearview Estate, a vineyard on the coast that produces small quantities of hand-made wines.
Stay at the luxury Master’s Lodge in Napier, historic Greenhill The Lodge near Hastings, the Black Barn in the heart of vineyards on the edge of Havelock North or the River Houses near Havelock North.
Martinborough in the Wairarapa region
Drive through the rolling farming country southwards to the Wairarapa region and the pretty town of Martinborough. Most of Martinborough’s 20 or so excellent wineries are within walking distance of the town centre. Pinot noir is the grape here and whilst this is one of New Zealand’s newest wine producing areas, the quality of the wine from this area is superb.
Stay at the historic boutique Peppers Martinborough Hotel, charming Westwood Country House in Greytown or the luxuriously exclusive Wharekauhau (20 minutes drive from Martinborough).
Nelson area
Amid a mild climate and a traditionally fruit growing area, the vineyards around Nelson are now becoming more established. The winemakers here specialise in wines that respond to cooler growing conditions such as chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, riesling and pinot noir. Some of the wineries to visit include Woollaston Estates, Neudorf Vineyards and Seifried.
Stay at the historic homestead of Bronte Lodge in Upper Moutere or luxurious Edenhouse in the Orinoco Valley.
Marlborough wine country and Blenheim
The vastly important Marlborough wine region can be found amid the dry country of the Wairau valley around Blenheim. Vineyards stretch for miles with today easily recognisable names such as Montana, Hunter’s, Cloudy Bay and Stoneleigh. There are in fact about 50 wineries in this area, many of them producing the sauvignon blanc associated with the region but also chardonnay, riesling, pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon. Sparkling wines are also produced here with Le Brun specialising in méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines. The Montana Brancott Visitor Centre covers all aspects of wine production.
Stay at cosy Raetihi Lodge or in a contemporary apartment at the Bay of Many Coves Resort both in Marlborough Sounds.
Waipara Valley
Only 40 minutes from Christchurch is New Zealand's fastest growing wine region - the Waipara Valley. Pegasus Bay has been awarded numerous accolades including being recently rated as one of New Zealand's top five wine producers. Pinot noir is the most well-known here, but rieslings and chardonnays are up and coming too.
Stay at the elegant Claremont Country Estate in Amberley or The George, one of the best hotels in downtown Christchurch.
Otago wine country
The world’s southernmost wine producing area is about 40 minutes’ drive from Queenstown. Gibbston Valley wines is one of the best known and produces pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot gris.
Stay at the boutique Eichardt’s hotel, luxury The Dairy or contemporary The Spire in Queenstown or sophisticated Evergreen Lodge overlooking Lake Wakatipu just outside Queenstown.