MEET ME IN MARLBOROUGH
With over 75 per cent of New Zealand’s wine industry, stretched across valleys, and 20 per cent of New Zealand’s coastline, woven through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, Marlborough is world-renowned for producing wines with a pure intensity that simply can’t be found anywhere else in the world, so it’s a fitting place for the southernmost stop of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail. Thanks to this geographically diverse landscape, combined with an enviable climate, wines of unmatched intensity and aroma are grown, including arguably New Zealand’s most famous wine, the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. More than 30 cellar doors offer tastings; there are many ways to explore the region’s wine trail and winery restaurants. Cycling, driving, and private or group tours are all brilliant options to explore the Marlborough wine region.
On top of the excellent wine options in Marlborough, there is plenty to do, from the wonders of Marlborough Sounds to charming Blenheim. Take in the art and sculptures on the Lochmara Sculpture Trail or, if you’re after a nature kick, kayak the Pelorous River in Havelock or tackle the Queen Charlotte Track. The region is also home to plenty of spots to try some incredible food, including the classic Kiwi cafés and the award-winning establishments, Arbour and Scotch Wine Bar. Indulge your sweet tooth at Makana Confections; the factory is set up like a cellar door where you can watch the masters make their chocolates, taste a few samples, and shop for delicious treats. Marlborough is also home to a number of accommodation options with family-friendly motor lodges through to the more luxe. Stay in one of the many luxury retreats and resorts or lodges in the Marlborough Sounds, or stay close to the vines at the Marlborough Vintners Hotel or St Leonards Vineyard Cottages.
TE WHARE RA WINES
Family owned and operated TWR wines are proudly certified organic, hand-picked, hand-sorted and one of the oldest vineyards in Marlborough, planted in 1979.
WAIRAU RIVER WINES
Opening in 1992, the Wairau River Restaurant and Cellar Door is one of the region’s original wine tourism destinations, with exquisite cuisine and award-winning wines.
NO. 1 FAMILY ESTATE
No. 1 Family Estate is dedicated exclusively to Methode Traditionelle wines. All are produced from top-quality, hand-harvested grapes grown exclusively for making this style of wine.
YEALANDS ESTATE
Whether you are going for a wine tasting, a self-guided bike tour round the white road, or taking in the stunning views of the coastline (and on a good day – the North Island), Yealands Estate is a must-do when visiting the Marlborough region. Founded by (now retired) Peter Yealands, it is all about sustainability, using Marlborough’s sunshine hours not only to ripen the grapes but power the winery too.