Our first visit to the Wairarapa wine region...
Wairarapa, an absolute gem in New Zealand's wider Wellington region, is home to some of the most exquisite wineries. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a nice day out, these wineries offer experiences that look after everyone.
To give you an idea of what to expect, we’ve started the hard work & explored six wineries in the Martinborough region: Palliser Estate, Ata Rangi, Moy Hall, Poppies, Tirohana, and The Runholder.
We intend to explore as many places as possible, and will add blog posts that outline our experiences as we go.
Palliser Estate
One of the first stops on many ROVEX winery tours is Palliser Estate – renowned for Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, however our personal favourites here are the Rosé, as well as The Griffin Méthode Traditionelle! Don’t be surprised to see Nicola there stocking up on supplies for home.
Established in 1989, Palliser combines the rugged beauty of Cape Palliser (another good place to visit on a day trip) with the timeless charm of its vineyards. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in the cellar door or relax in the sheltered leafy courtyard.
It is recommended to book for a tasting here, and to allow approximately 40 minutes.
Ata Rangi
Ata Rangi, meaning "dawn sky" or "new beginning" in Te Reo Māori, is a family-owned organic winery with an exceptional Pinot Noir. Founded in 1980, and therefore one of the original wineries in Martinborough, Ata Rangi has more than earned its reputation. The cellar door experience offers a fun tasting experience, making it a must-visit for Pinot enthusiasts.
No bookings required for groups of less than 6. Usually busy, but there is a good reason for that - add it to your list!
Moy Hall
Moy Hall offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with its dining area overlooking the vineyard. Moy Hall has an always delicious menu featuring locally sourced produce to complement their wines. The slow cooked lamb shoulder a particular favourite.
When visiting Moy Hall, our recommendation is to book for a meal, and enjoy a wine flight at your table. Also, take your camera as the view is stunning.
Poppies
Poppies Martinborough is a boutique winery known for its handcrafted wines and stunning setting. Enjoy a tasting in the cellar door or book a table for one of their amazing seasonal “vineyard platters”.
Like Moy Hall - When visiting Poppies, our recommendation for the best experience is to book for a meal and enjoy a wine tasting at your table.
This is another tasting experience that is usually busy, but worth the visit.
Tirohana Estate
Tirohana Estate offers a complete wine and dining experience with its award-winning restaurant & cellar door. They provide a range of dining options all paired with their wines. The beautiful setting and exceptional service make it a standout destination - we had a family members 40th birthday lunch for approximately 30 people here, and found the service impeccable.
Well worth a visit for a tasting, meal, or both. Tell Toby that we say hello!
The Runholder
The Runholder is the new home for Te Kairanga, Martinborough Vineyard, and Lighthouse Gin. This unique venue combines a restaurant, tasting room, cellar door, and gin distillery, offering a broad experience for visitors. Enjoy a meal or just stop in for a tasting of their iconic wines! Another tasting option here is gin - or just relax with a Gin cocktail while taking in the stunning views.
See if you can spot the 1994 Reserve Chardonnay in the lineup of historical wines – this was donated by Nicola recently, and was part of her late Fathers extensive collection of Te Kairanga wines from the 1990s.
All options here are recommended by us – the meals and service are fabulous, wine and gin tastings informative, the location is spacious and comfortable, with amazing views.