A trip to New Zealand wouldn’t be complete without discovering its world class wines. Here we’ll give you our guide to our top 5 New Zealand wineries.
Great grape escapes begin and end close to home. Don’t let the small geographical stature of New Zealand lull you into a false sense of seen-it-all-before; most tours only cover a well-trodden timetable of must-do’s, should-see’s and delicious restaurants… including prominent cellar doors.
New Zealand enjoys long, warm summers with plenty of sunshine and cool winters, the perfect climate for growing grapes. Our New Zealand wine tours explore the stalwarts, the trend-setters and the future best sellers of the industry, inviting you to diversify your tasting palette in style aboard a comfort-friendly tour bus. Sip and sample your way through our top five New Zealand wineries on your tour.
1. Mudbrick Vineyard
An essential entry for any mainstream wine aficionado, the Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant overlooks the ocean from an expansive property on the edge of Waiheke Island. A genuine passion project, Mudbrick grew into its reputation slowly, cultivating a service-first culture with every drop of wine. Over the last eighteen years, Robyn and Nicholas have been producing rave-review vintages and delectable menus, opening their cellar doors to countless island visitors, wedding parties and weekenders.
Reds to try: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot
Whites to try: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier
2. Craggy Range
Like most New Zealand wineries, Craggy Range is family owned and operated. The Peabody’s have made wine their life’s work; shadowed by the striking peaks of Te Mata, there’s perhaps no better grape-growing land in the Hawke’s Bay region. Stepping through the Craggy Range cellar door guarantees an exceptional tasting experience, as complex aromas rise from the glass and tickle your senses with possibilities – every sip is unique, just as Terry Peabody intended.
Reds to try: Pinot Noir, Syrah, Merlot
Whites to try: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris
3. Brancott Estate
Brancott Estate are the quiet over-achievers of our top five, although they’ve earnt every gold medal on a very long list of achievements. Pioneering the now-famous Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, the Brancott team continue their commitment to delightful, fruity wines and crisp, acidic experiences through a balance of experimentation and tradition. No further words are needed here, this one is simply unmissable.
Reds to try: Pinot Noir
Whites to try: Sauvignon Blanc
4. Rippon Vineyard
Located in Central Otago, Rippon Vineyard is unlike any other wine-grower on this list. Boasting a genuine continental climate, the world’s southern-most viticultural capital frames the shores of the striking Lake Wanaka. Whether you’re tempted by the globally acclaimed wine or camera-ready sights, Rippon Vineyard won’t disappoint, utilising the fertile terrain and mountainous climate with expertise, confidence and enthusiasm.
Reds to try: Pinot Noir
Whites to try: Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc
5. Gibbston Valley Winery
Central Otago has been a wine-making capital since the early to mid 1980s, capturing the tastebuds of many with award winning vintages and blends that will make your eyes pop with pleasure. Gibbston Valley Winery played a founding role in the local wine tradition, drawing work practices from sustainable viticultural methods – the Gibbston team concentrates on handcrafted and unfiltered premium wines, earning true world-renown in the process.
Reds to try: Single Vinyard Pinot Noir, Gold River Pinot Noir
Ready to discover more of New Zealand?
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