Another week, another opportunity to talk about wine! This time, it’s in the stunningly beautiful country of New Zealand. Although it’s a fairly small country, New Zealand has several outstanding regions that produce award-winning wines including pinot noir and sauvignon blanc, among others. In addition to amazing wine, you’ll get spectacular views to enjoy, too!
If you are a pinot noir fan, look no further than the Central Otago region located just outside of Queenstown. Their wines consistently rank as some of the best in the world and certainly the scenery will wow you, too.
Because it’s such a picturesque country, one of the more enjoyable ways to spend the day among the vines is on bicycle. You can meander at your own speed and burn off a bit of those liquid calories at the same time.
If you are a fan, like me, of sauvignon blanc, then you know that the Marlborough region produces outstanding wine. Crisp and bright on the palate, they pair exceptionally well with another specialty of the area – Greenshell Mussels. In fact, one of our favourite touring options includes a cruise in the sounds with a stop at a Greenshell Mussel farm for the freshest sampling of these delectable bivalves, washed down with a glass (or two) of sauv blanc.
A lesser known, but no less beautiful, region is Hawkes Bay on the north island. Located near the charming art deco city of Napier, you will find lush red wines like cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah. Pair these wines with the amazingly fresh, locally grown foods you’ll find here.
Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, you’ll find Waiheke Island. We love long, leisurely lunches at any of the lovely wineries on the island, followed by visiting with the local artists in their workshops and storefronts and perhaps picking-up an original piece of artwork to remember our time in New Zealand. Or, just soak-up the amazing views over a glass of bubbles.
A charming, boutique region is Martinborough, located just a bit outside of Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. Hard to believe for such a small country, but here you’ll find more award-winning pinot noir and sauvignon blanc from family-owned wineries.
Ahhh…this is where I want to be right now! Such a gorgeous and relaxing spot to enjoy a few glasses of wine on a warm afternoon that turns into a late evening. It really is a piece of paradise on earth.