Marlborough

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TRAVEL GUIDE

PUBLISHED JANUARY 2020

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Marlborough – New Zealand’s

premier wine region

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Marlborough is recognised as one of the world’s finest premium wine regions. The area has been producing wine for more than 140 years since the time of the early

pioneers. However it wasn’t until the 1980s that the region became world- renowned.

The acclaim it attracts far outweighs its size. Located at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, the region grows over twenty thousand hectares of grapes and

accounts for approximately two-thirds of the country’s wine plantings.

Marlborough’s distinctive wines are a product of its unique climate. Bounded by the Pacific Ocean to the east and towering mountain ranges to the north and south,

the vines sit on a broad alluvial plain. They enjoy cool, dry conditions with lots of sunshine and low rainfall, combined with free-draining moderately fertile soil.

Maori refer to the Wairau Valley as the ‘The place with the hole in the cloud’.

The region is known for crafting wines of extraordinary purity and intensity of flavour, particularly exquisite Sauvignon Blanc. This pristine variety put New

Zealand on the international wine stage in the 1980s and Marlborough accounts for 90% of the country’s Sav Blanc plantings. Other top quality varieties include

Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir.

The appeal of this famous wine region is about more than wine. The Marlborough Sounds is close by, offering stunning scenery and an array of cruises and water

sports, not to mention an abundance of fresh seafood. There are also picturesque towns worth exploring. So, we recommend allowing a good two days to explore the

region and this mini guide that we’ve put together will help you plan your trip.

Enjoy!

Christine RickettsCellar Director

Jo GearNew Zealand Winemaker

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Please note: Prices and information correct at the date of publication based on publicly available information. It is always best to contact the supplier directly to ensure the information presented in this guide remains accurate.

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Delicious seafoodThe pristine waters of the Marlborough Sound produce delicious seafood. The region’s famed Sauvignon Blanc is widely accepted as ‘the’ wine to pair with seafood, so make sure you indulge in some seafood cuisine when you visit.

Best time to visitMarlborough has something to offer year round. The region enjoys long, hot summers with plenty of daylight hours giving you the opportunity to partake in water sports. Winters bring blue-skied days, calm weather and smooth water for sightseeing cruises. During spring and autumn you’ll experience crisp mornings and warm afternoons, so there really isn’t a bad time to visit!

Get on your bikeWith all the magnificent scenery on offer, leaving the car behind and hopping on your bike is a great way to experience the region. The 6km Golden Mile through Rapaura and Renwick can be enjoyed at any time of year, which will take you past nine wineries, with dining, art and cold drink stops along the way.

Be treated to exquisite winesMarlborough wines truly are one-of-a-kind. That’s because nowhere in the world is quite like Marlborough and the wines produced here reflect the uniqueness of the region. There are more than 120 wineries and over 30 cellar doors to discover that will excite and delight wine lovers.

5 Practical Facts

Marlborough SoundsNo trip to Marlborough is complete without a journey to appreciate the winding waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. This natural wonder provides visitors the opportunity to experience brilliant boating, fishing, diving, and wildlife viewing including dolphin watching.

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5 Fast Facts

30 Cellar doors Marlborough as a wine region has a small town feel, with most wineries within a ten-minute drive from each other. But don’t expect to make a quick visit – with so many quality wines on offer, you’ll want to immerse yourself in all this region has to offer.

Picturesque small townsBlenheim is considered Marlborough’s main town and it’s the sort of small place you’ll want to explore on foot. It offers an abundance of great cafés, restaurants, shops and galleries, and is bordered by the Taylor and Opawa rivers.

Multi-award winning craft beerMarlborough isn’t just known for award-winning wine. It’s also a producer of some of New Zealand’s top craft beer that’s been awarded internationally. There are more than enough breweries to spend an afternoon beer tasting, plus there’s an annual Marlborough Beer Festival held in October each year.

Marlborough Farmers’ MarketIf you think the freshness of the wine is unrivalled, then be sure to savour the local produce on offer. Don’t miss the Farmers’ Market held every Sunday morning at the A&P Showgrounds in Blenheim, and the Marlborough Artisan Market in town on Saturdays.

Discover natural wondersThere’s no shortage of natural beauty to be found in Marlborough. Whether you’d like to stroll beside a peaceful bay, visit ancient forests or spot local wildlife, the region boasts a natural beauty that will leave you spellbound.

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Nelson

Hawkes Bay

Marlborough

Otago

Auckland

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Wellington

Christchurch

Getting Here & Around

By carMarlborough is a wonderful place to explore by road due to the stunning scenery. State Highway 1 links Christchurch with Blenheim and it’s just under a four and a half hour drive, although you’ll probably want to spend longer to take in the sights.

By busInterCity services Marlborough with daily direct buses between Christchurch and Blenheim and also connects with ferry services arriving into Picton from Wellington.

By ferryYou can travel between Wellington and Picton with Interislander or Bluebridge for one of the most picturesque ferry journeys in the world. You will experience the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds, cruise past remote bays, beaches, islands and native bush.

By planeWithin minutes of touching down at Marlborough airport, visitors can be sipping wine at cellar doors. If you choose to come by plane, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. The airport is a twenty-minute flight from Wellington International Airport and three airlines service the region with flights from Auckland and Wellington.

By bikeCyclists usually can’t resist the scenery on offer. If you’re keen for a long distance ride, you can ride from Christchurch to Blenheim using alternative safer back routes, taking a few days to complete the ride. Alternatively, Picton is just under six hours ride from Blenheim if you’ve brought your bike across on the ferry.

wkes Bay

Marlborough

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5 Happenings

Marlborough Wine & Food FestivalThe Marlborough Wine & Food Festival is Marlborough’s longest-running wine and food festival, running for 35 years. Showcasing the best of the region’s wines and local produce, the event also attracts world famous entertainment. Around 8,000 guests visit the festival each year, which is held on the second Saturday of February.

wine-marlborough-festival.co.nz

Picton Maritime FestivalPicton is located at the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. The Picton Maritime Festival aims to celebrate the region’s maritime heritage in January each year. It’s a community event orientated at families that has been running for fourteen years and attracts approximately 6,000 visitors. With market stalls, raft races, including build your own boat, and other on water activities, displays, and children’s activities, it’s a fun day out for all the family.

pictonmaritimefestival.co.nz

Marlborough Book FestivalHeld in winter, the Marlborough Book Festival is an annual weekend that hosts a range of wonderful writers and curious audiences set among some of Marlborough’s most beautiful locations. www.marlboroughbookfest.co.nz

Garden MarlboroughDreamt up by gardeners for gardeners, Garden Marlborough is New Zealand’s premier garden event. Held in November each year, the event celebrates Marlborough’s stunning landscape with a range of garden tours, workshops and social events

www.gardenmarlborough.co.nz

Saint Clair Vineyard Half MarathonThe Vineyard Half is said to be New Zealand’s most unique, social and picturesque half marathon. It’s not all hard work though. The course includes the odd treat from local producers as well as live entertainment as you run though Marlborough’s beautiful autumnal vineyards. Plus every finisher receives a bottle of wine!

vineyardhalf.com

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Makana ConfectionsMakana Confections specialises in gift-quality confections that are hand-made and use only the freshest, natural ingredients. You can visit their boutique chocolate factory in the heart of Marlborough Wine Country. The factory is set up like a winery/cellar door where you can watch how the chocolates are made.Corner Rapaura & O’Dwyers Roads, Blenheim +64 3 570 5370www.makana.co.nz

Greenshell Mussel CruiseNew Zealand has an international reputation for high quality seafood and this is demonstrated by one of its most iconic products, the New Zealand Greenshell Mussel. A unique way to savour this seafood speciality is to hop aboard the Greenshell Mussel Cruise, where you’ll be served freshly steamed mussels paired with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc while you enjoy the natural beauty of the Sounds.

Havelock Marina, Havelock+64 3 577 9997 www.greenshellmusselcruise.co.nz/

Kaikoura CheeseKaikoura Cheese produce award-winning handmade cheese using traditional methods. Their exceptionally good soft cheese is crafted the artisan way using goat’s milk and lovely creamy Jersey cow milk from nearby farms. You can purchase their products at the Marlborough Farmers’ Markets every Sunday or if you would like to observe their cheese making process you can visit their factory and shop further afield in Kaikoura, just under two hours south of Blenheim.

45 West End, Kaikoura+64 3 319 7598kaikouracheese.vendecommerce.com

Eden OrchardsMarlborough also excels at growing cherries and Eden Orchards based in Blenheim grow some of the region’s finest. Gary and his wife Steph have been growing cherries for over thirty years and you can sample their products at The Wine Station in Blenheim or order them online.

The Wine Station, Blenheim Railway Station, Sinclair St, Mayfield, Blenheim+64 3 578 2633edenorchards.co.nz

Cranky Goat CheeseCranky Goat Ltd is a small cheese company nestled in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, supplying high quality handmade goat cheeses using traditional methods. They use locally sourced milk from a neighbouring farm to ensure their milk is of the highest quality. For a list of stockists in the Marlborough region visit their website. www.crankygoatltd.co.nz

5 Local Produce

Favourites

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5 Cellar Doors with Outstanding Reds

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CREDIT: FROMM ESTATE

Fromm EstateAbout the wineryFromm produce intense, concentrated wines and have built an enviable reputation of producing wines that reflect both European style and Kiwi ingenuity. Established in the early 1990s, they recently celebrated 25 years of their exceptional Marlborough Pinot Noir.

Cellar DoorThe Cellar Door is open daily but check the times before you visit as opening hours vary between winter and summer. You can taste their current releases as well as some older vintage library releases when available. Private tastings are available for a fee and groups of ten or more require a booking.

Expert tipIf you are peckish, Fromm’s cellar door offers platters, featuring Swiss cheese which are lovely out in the summer sunshine alongside a wine tasting.

15 Godfrey Rd, Fairhall +64 3 572 9355frommwinery.co.nz

Stand-out wine: Fromm Syrah While their Pinot Noir is renowned, their Syrah is a great example of a cool climate red that possesses power without precluding finesse. It’s crafted solely from the ‘Home Vineyard’ in the Wairau Valley with a large proportion of the wine made up of fruit from their oldest (now 27-year-old) vines.

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Villa MariaAbout the wineryVilla Maria holds the title of New Zealand’s most awarded winery and they approach winemaking as an art. They started out small in the early 1960s but since then have become one of the country’s most respected wineries with more than 250 staff and 28 different grape varieties, exporting to 60 countries worldwide.

Cellar DoorThe Marlborough Cellar door is just minutes from Blenheim airport and is open every day from 10am to 5pm, except in June to September when it is open weekends only from 12 to 5pm.

Expert tipVilla Maria’s beautiful sprawling grounds attract couples from far and wide. With multiple ceremony and reception areas don’t be surprised if you spot a happy couple or two among the vines when you visit.

Cnr Paynters & new Renwick Road, Fairhall+64 3 520 8470www.villamariawines.com

Stand-out wine: Southern Clays Pinot NoirVilla Maria craft some exceptional single vineyard wines and their Pinot is a prime example. With poise and presence, you won’t find a more captivating, rich and complex Pinot Noir.

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The country’s most awarded

winery

Te Whare Ra Vineyard & WineryAbout the wineryTe Whare Ra is a small vineyard and winery located in the Marlborough sub-region of Renwick, owned by winemakers Anna & Jason Flowerday. The 11 hectare vineyard has predominantly loam over clay soils and is one of the oldest in Marlborough, originally planted in 1979. Anna and Jason both have winemaking in their blood and have converted the winery to organic and biodynamic since purchasing it 16 years ago.

Cellar DoorThe Cellar Door is open for wine sales and tastings from November until the beginning of harvest in March. During this time they open weekdays from 11am – 4pm and some weekends when the vineyard and family time permits.

Expert tipDepending on when you visit, you might enjoy meeting Anna and Jason’s children – they have two sets of twin girls three years apart!

56 Anglesea Street, Renwick+64 3 572 8581www.twrwines.co.nz

Stand-out wine: 015 Pinot Noir SV 5182All the fruit for this single vineyard wine is hand-picked and hand-sorted. It displays the full flavour spectrum of Marlborough Pinot Noir from red fruits to black and from complex to savoury notes to spice and back again.

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Winery with rich heritage

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Saint Clair Family EstateAbout the winerySaint Clair Family Estate was established by Neal and Judy Ibbotson, viticulture pioneers in Marlborough since 1978. Saint Clair is one of New Zealand’s leading wine companies with an exceptional quality record and makes world-class Sauvignon Blanc - but we think their reds are not to be missed as well.

Cellar DoorYou can taste Saint Clair wines at their wine tasting counter in the Vineyard Kitchen, a restaurant with an extensive menu showcasing seasonal produce. A large selection of their wines is available for tasting daily between 9am to 5pm. Winter hours: 11am – 4pm

Expert tipWhen visiting the Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen make sure you cross the car park to Return to Eden Art Gallery – Supporting local artists/crafters, natural products, jewellery, candles, soaps, honey, country preserves, furniture, prints and paintings.

13 Selmes Road, Rapaura Blenheim+64 3 570 5280www.saintclair.co.nz

Stand-out wine: Saint Clair Reserve Wairau Sauvignon BlancThis wine has gained iconic status and is arguably New Zealand’s most awarded Sauvignon Blanc. A certain ‘must try’ if visiting the cellar door.

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Spy Valley WinesAbout the winerySpy Valley is a family-owned winery based in the Waihopai Valley that has grown into one of New Zealand’s most successful family-run wineries, exporting 8 varietals to 35 different countries. They enjoy the air of mystery surrounding them, helped by the proximity of the spy base down the road.

Cellar DoorYou can experience Spy Valley’s range of wines at their Cellar Door in the Waihopai Valley in an award winning architectural setting. Wine flights start from $5, and the cost is redeemable upon purchase. In addition to the tastings, visitors can now enjoy local platters and wine by the glass.They are open 7 days during summer and weekdays during winter from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Expert tipWhile you’re visiting the Cellar Door you can check out the nosey neighbours, The Waihopai International Satellite Communications Monitoring Station, or as Spy Valley like to call it, ‘the spy base down the road’.

Stand-out wine: Pinot NoirSpy Valley aren’t giving away all their secrets, but they do admit to cropping their Pinot Noir vines low. By thinning out the bunches of grapes so only a select few remain on the vine they aim to capture the unique characteristics of the land. You won’t be disappointed if you try either the Envoy Outpost or Envoy Johnson Pinot Noir.

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37 Lake Timara Road West, RD 6, Blenheim+64 3 572 6088www.spyvalleywine.co.nz

Near a spy base!

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5 Best Cellar Doors For White Wines

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CREDIT: CLOUDY BAY

230 Jacksons Road, Blenheim+64 3 520 9140cloudybay.co.nz

Cloudy Bay About the wineryIf you’re looking to visit an iconic Marlborough winery, then look no further than Cloudy Bay. Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay was one of the first five winemakers to venture into Marlborough. Named after Cloudy Bay, a body of water explorer Captain Cook came across during his voyage to New Zealand in 1770, their wines capture the essence of this world-famous region.

Cellar DoorThe spacious and inviting Cellar Door is open from 10am to 4pm 7 days a week, and you can also enjoy a glass of wine in the vast courtyard while you’re there.

Expert tipIf you’re visiting during summer, stop by from 11.30am to 3.30pm and discover Jack’s Raw Bar, a relaxed outdoor wine lounge with games of pétanque and croquet.

Stand-out wine: Sauvignon BlancSauvignon Blanc is the iconic wine behind Cloudy Bay’s fame and they have built a reputation for refined, elegant examples that exhibit outstanding quality.

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Iconic winery

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Hunter’s WinesAbout the wineryHunter’s is a fiercely independent family-owned winery in Blenheim that produce world famous Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. From their very first vintage in 1982 they won six medals at the National Wine Show and since then they’ve accumulated more than 200 Gold medals.

Cellar DoorThe Cellar Door is located in the original farmhouse and you can enjoy tastings inside or outside in the picturesque gardens 7 days a week from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Expert tipDon’t miss Hunter’s MiruMiru Sparkling range – the 2013 Reserve recently picked up a Double Trophy at the 2018 Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships. Stand-out wine: Gewürztraminer

Hunter’s excel at crafting Gewürztraminer that’s wonderfully aromatic with an appealing richness and balance. Made from fruit sourced from the Rapaura Road vineyard, the free draining soils give this varietal a unique freshness.

603 Rapaura Rd, Rapaura+64 3 572 8489hunters.co.nz

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Brancott Estate WinesAbout the wineryBrancott Estate is responsible for the creation of the first ever Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in the late 1970s. Their range of Sauvignon Blanc wines now includes sparkling, organic, oak-influenced, naturally low-alcohol, age-worthy and late-harvest wines.

Cellar DoorThe Cellar Door is open from 10am to 4.30pm daily and there is a range of experiences available for individuals, couples and groups alike.

Expert tipFor a truly memorable visit to Brancott Estate, take part in the Living Land Falcon Encounter where you’ll see the rare and endangered New Zealand Falcon up close, plus a tutored tasting of the organic Brancott Estate Living Land Series wines.

Stand-out wine: Sauvignon BlancA visit to Marlborough wouldn’t be complete without tasting the wine where it all began. Their Sauvignon Blanc is literally dripping with medals and is a well-balanced example with the palate weight, sweet fruit flavours and crisp acidity this style is famed for.

180 Brancott Road, Fairhall+64 3 520 6975 www.brancottestate.com/en-au

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Framingham WinesAbout the wineryFramingham grow and make a diverse range of high-quality single blend, world-class wines. They have some of the oldest Riesling vines in Marlborough, dating back to 1981, and have one of the best ranges of Riesling styles in the country. Accredited as an environmentally sustainable vineyard, they use organic viticulture practices at their estate.

Cellar DoorThe cellar door offers a complimentary tasting for 3 wines, $5 for a fill tasting (redeemable on purchase). Framingham’s Cellar Door is located just outside of Renwick on Marlborough’s famous Golden Mile. They are open 7 days a week from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Expert tipFramingham is one of Marlborough’s most happening wineries. They host the Framingham Harvest Concert in their unique creative space, plus pop-up gigs and art exhibitions in the area known as the Framingham Underground, which was originally a wine cellar and wine library.

Stand-out wine: F-Series Old Vine Riesling The strictly limited-edition F-Series range is about having freedom to create alternative takes on classic varietals. The F-Series Old Vine Riesling is a deliciously balanced old-world style that has more texture and complexity than the pure styles of Riesling.

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19 Conders Bend Rd, Renwick+64 3 572 8884framingham.co.nz

Astrolabe WinesAbout the wineryNamed after the ship that charted and explored the Marlborough Coast in 1827, Astrolabe is a personal project for winemaker Simon Waghorn and his wife, Jane. Astrolabe produces a range of wines that express the purity and intensity of fruit flavours naturally afforded by the climate and soils of the Marlborough region. All grapes are sourced from unique Marlborough sites. They have established a benchmark style of Sauvignon Blanc that reflects an unparalleled diversity of vineyard sources.

Cellar Door Astrolabe doesn’t have a cellar door, but you can try their range of wines at The Wine Station along with 80 other premium wines.

Expert tipAs well as the range of Sauvignon Blanc on offer, Astrolabe offer an extensive choice of other classic varieties including Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Rosé, as well as alternative styles like Chenin Blanc and Albariño.

Stand-out wine: Sauvignon BlancThe Astrolabe Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is made from grapes grown across three Marlborough sub-regions — the Wairau Valley, the Awatere Valley and the Kekerengu Coast. The style is dry, expressive and elegantly balanced, and you can taste the care taken with the grapes in the purity and intensity of the flavours.

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The Wine Station Blenheim Railway StationSinclair Street, Mayfield, Blenheim+64 3 578 2633www.astrolabewines.co.nz

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3 QuirkyCellar Doors

Jackson EstateAbout the winerySince they first started 25 years ago, Jackson Estate remain 100% New Zealand owned, handcrafting beautiful wines with elegance, finesse and longevity from their mature vines. They work in harmony with the land, focusing on low cropping levels, small batch fermentation, single vineyard fruits and minimal winemaking intervention. Jackson Estate consider themselves modern pioneers and this is reflected in their unusual cellar door modelled on the original 1850s homestead. It was designed by Brian Massey, Art Director of The Hobbit trilogy, and the rustic façade hides a cosy, modern tasting room.

Cellar DoorThe cellar door is open from 10am to 4.30pm, 7 days in summer and 6 days in winter.

Expert tipDeep beneath the Cellar Door is Jackson Estate’s ‘Cave’, where they hold exclusive tasting events of their prized vintage collections.

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77 Jacksons Road, Blenheim+64 3 572 9500www.jacksonestate.co.nz

No.1 Family EstateAbout the wineryNo.1 Family Estate makes only one type of wine, but they do it exceedingly well. For almost 40 years Champagne maker Daniel Le Brun has had one goal: to make Méthode Traditionelle wines that rival the best in the world and to do it in Marlborough, New Zealand. Daniel’s family has been making wine since 1684 and his winery has received many awards and accolades since it started in 1997.

Cellar Door The elegant Cellar Door is open 10am to 4.30pm over summer and 11am to 4.30pm during winter.

Expert tipNo.1 Family Estate is also an excellent place to do a spot of shopping, with a carefully selected collection of jewellery and gifts on offer.

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169 Raparua Road, Blenheim+64 3 572 9876https://www.no1familyestate.co.nz

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Nautilus EstateAbout the wineryNautilus Estate is one of the early pioneers of the Marlborough. Since the mid-eighties, the small, family-owned winery has been crafting delicious, food-friendly wines from the clean, cool and diverse valleys of Marlborough. The striking Nautilus shell is their inspiration with its shape expressing natural beauty and mathematical perfection that they try to capture in their expressive, textural, precisely crafted wines.

Cellar Door Nautilus Cellar Door has been rated in the top 10 cellar doors in Marlborough for several years and received a ‘gold award’ for excellent customer service. The friendly staff welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 4.30pm, 7 days a week.

Expert tipThe stunning Nautilus shell sculpture outside the Cellar Door was commissioned to mark the completion of the new winery in 2006 and has become a local landmark. It was designed and made by Whanganui artist Dale Hudson and epitomises the meld of traditional craftsmanship and state-of-the-art techniques that are inherent to Nautilus.

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12 Rapaura Road, Renwick+64 3 572 6008www.nautilusestate.com

5 Places to Visit

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BlenheimSituated in the heart of wine-growing Marlborough, Blenheim is one of the sunniest towns in New Zealand. The area enjoys an estimated 2,438 hours of sunshine per year with hot sunny days in summer thanks to the picturesque mountains framing the district that trap the heat. Blenheim offers an array of cafés, restaurants, wineries, bars, shops, artisan food outlets and golf courses. It’s a great place to enjoy on foot with popular walkways along the Taylor River Reserve and award-winning gardens and parks.

www.newzealand.com/au/blenheim

PictonIf you’re keen to visit Marlborough Sounds, Picton is right in the heart of it. It’s a pretty port town built around a sheltered harbour that is home to great cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops, with no shortage of activities. There’s a floating maritime museum and an aquarium, plus no end of water-based activities including cruising, fishing, dolphin watching, sea kayaking. Biking is another popular pastime here.

www.newzealand.com/au/picton

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CREDIT: GRAEME MURRAY

HavelockSeafood lovers flock to Havelock, a historic coastal township also known as the ‘Greenshell Mussel capital of the world.’ A stroll around town hints at Havelock’s gold mining past with quaint colonial buildings now housing boutique art galleries and eateries. Down at the marina you’ll find taxis and charter boats ready to take you fishing or on a sightseeing journey of the Sounds. For those not worried about getting wet, you can take a sea kayak tour.www.newzealand.com/au/havelock

RenwickIf it’s wine you seek, then look no further than Renwick. Over thirty cellar doors are scattered in and around the town, and it’s small enough that you can hire a bike and pedal from cellar door to cellar door. Be sure to stop long enough to sample the local cuisine at one of the exceptional vineyard restaurants. At the end of the day, there’s also a delightful selection of B&Bs, cottages and other accommodation.

www.newzealand.com/au/renwick/

D’Urville Island For those who truly want to get away from it all, a trip to D’Urville Island on the edge of the Marlborough Sounds offers a quiet sanctuary. It’s New Zealand’s fifth largest land mass and abounds with large areas of attractive native forest, ideal for hiking. Climbing the peaks will reward you with sweeping views of the ocean and Sounds, while the forest is alive with tui, bellbirds, native robins, weka and kaka (the island is possum-free).www.newzealand.com/au/rangitoto-ki-te-tonga-durville-island

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5 Placesfor Breakfast

FairweathersAs a local bar, Fairweathers may not be the first place you think of going for breakfast, but their tasty breakfast menu is popular around town. Available from 8 to 11am, they also bake scrumptious muffins and scones fresh each morning, which are perfect to compliment a coffee.36 Scott St, Blenheim+64 3 579 4800

Saveur Café, Bistro and PatisserieSaveur sits on the banks of the Taylor River in Blenheim and their on-site patisserie is stocked daily by their in-house pastry chef with a range of sweets, cakes, muffins and French pastries. The terrace overlooking the Taylor River is a superb spot to start your day and during the cooler months the fireplace will keep you cosy.6 Symons St, Blenheim+64 3 577 8822

BV GourmetThis urban grocery, café, kitchenware shop and deli attracts locals and visitors alike at breakfast time. You can browse its range of artisan foods and providore-style products while sipping on your coffee and enjoying a tasty muffin.2A Park Terrace, Blenheim+64 3 929 3567

Ritual CaféRitual is a funky retro café that is a great breakfast and brunch spot. They serve 100% Fair Trade and organic coffee roasted on the premises. The delicious breakfast menu features everything from local free-range eggs and bacon to breakfast burritos and guacamole. They also cater for vegetarian, vegan, dairy free, gluten free with their extensive menu.10 Maxwell Rd, Blenheim+64 3 578 6939

Watery Mouth CaféNot surprisingly, Watery Mouth Café serves a range of mouth-watering food in their light and spacious café opposite the picturesque Seymour Square. Modern New Zealand cuisine is on the menu alongside great coffee. Their homemade Watery Mouth muesli is a speciality, as is their bacon, kumara and avocado stacks.71 High St, Blenheim+64 3 578 3828

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5 Places to Eat

Rock FerryAs well as serving great wines in their tasting room overlooking their lush gardens, Rock Ferry offers fine dining at their café featuring seasonally inspired cooking that showcases the fabulous produce from the South Island. Open daily from 11.30am to 3pm it’s a perfect spot to enjoy lunch in between wine tastings.130 Hammerichs Rd, Rapaura+64 3 579 6430

The BurleighFor more relaxed fare, but no less delicious, stop by The Burleigh for a delicious range of pies – some people say the pies are the best to come out of New Zealand. $6 will get you a Beef & Blue Cheese, Pork Belly or Jerk Chicken pie, all encased in crisp, light puff pastry.72 New Renwick Rd, Blenheim+64 3 579 2531

Wairau River Wines RestaurantWairau River is another winery that offers a dining experience alongside their Cellar Door. They specialise in simply prepared dishes, fresh local produce and the menu changes with the seasons. They open daily for lunch from midday to 3pm.130 Hammerichs Rd, Rapaura+64 3 579 6430

Scotch Wine Bar & Wine ShopScotch is an independent owner-operated restaurant and wine bar that offers a weekly dinner menu filled with fresh, seasonal produce. The food is served in a format that centres around sharing, from small entrée sized plates to main sized dishes designed to be paired with your choice from their impressive collection of over 500 wines.24-26 Maxwell Rd, Blenheim+64 3 579 1176

HerzogFor the ultimate Marlborough dining experience, the iconic and beautiful Herzog restaurant in Hans Herzog Estate offers a legendary degustation menu featuring Hans’ outstanding wines. A team of Michelin star trained chefs create mouth-watering contemporary cuisine while the front of house team will make you feel pampered. The restaurant attracts foodies and wine lovers from all over the world, and it’s pure indulgence.81 Jeffries Rd, Marlborough+64 3 572 8770

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Moa Brewing CompanyThe Moa Brewing Co. have been producing craft beer since 2003. Head Brewer David Nicholls has over 30 years brewing experience in some of the world’s largest breweries while Director Josh Scott is New Zealand’s only qualified Cicerone. Their range of beers is extensive and features classic styles together with more quirky offerings like their Sour Series.

258 Jacksons Rd, Blenheim +64 3 572 5149

5 Other Drink Destinations

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Dodson Street Beer GardenDodson Street Beer Garden is a rustic beer hall with an old-time feel offering a great range of brews on tap, plus German food and pizza. Locals and visitors alike love the authentic German options and the European atmosphere.1 Dodson St, Blenheim+64 3 577 8348

Craft Beer DepotA little further afield, not technically in Marlborough but only an hour and a half away from Blenheim, is the Craft Beer Depot in Nelson. They bring their customers a curated range of beers on tap and from their store room. Their selection includes some of the best local and international craft beers available.70 Achilles Ave, Nelson+64 3 548 2126

Eden Orchards Cherry JuiceEden Orchards have been successfully growing and selling delicious cherries for 30 years now. In 2017 they decided to get creative, branch out and try something new. And so Eden Orchards 100% Pure Cherry Juice was born. With a unique, delectable flavour, you can find Eden Orchards Cherry Juice at The Wine Station in Blenheim.

The Wine StationBlenheim Railway Station, Sinclair St, Mayfield, Blenheim+64 3 578 2633

RenaissanceAward-winning craft beer producer Renaissance aims to make beers that rival the quality of the wines in the region. They offer a range of top end, ultra premium ales to thrill the senses. You can experience their beers at a number of places in and around Marlborough including the Cork & Keg Old English Pub, Dodson Street Ale House, Gramados Brazilian Bar & Restaurant, Vines Village Café and a selection of cellar door restaurants.

1 Dodson St, Blenheim+64 3 579 3400

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5 Non-Wine Related Things To Do

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CREDIT: JUST BROWSING ANTIQUES

Marlborough SoundsMarlborough Sounds is 150km of stunning New Zealand coastline. A visit to the region is not complete until you’ve seen this natural wonder. Choose from one of many cruises to view the long sheltered inlets, clear waters and sandy bays or kayak around the headlands for a different perspective. There’s also some great single or multi-day hikes for those who love immersing themselves in the great outdoors.

www.newzealand.com/au/marlborough-sounds/

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Seafood CruiseMarlborough isn’t just a wine lovers paradise, seafood lovers get to indulge here too. Hop aboard a Seafood Odyssea Cruise and enjoy the natural beauty of the Queen Charlotte Sound while sampling fresh seafood such as Regal Salmon, Tio Point Oysters and Greenshell Mussels, accompanied by Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a Marlborough Salmon Farm.www.marlboroughtourcompany.co.nz/tours-cruises/seafood-odyssea-cruise

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Just Browsing AntiquesFor those who enjoy an afternoon of window shopping, add Just Browsing to your list. A quintessential second-hand shop, they offer a little bit of everything: glass, ceramics, pottery, stoneware, china, antique tools, boxes, kiwiana, pacifica, retro, antique furniture, kitchenware, antique paper, lighting, bottles, tins, estate jewellery and a good selection of New Zealand books.

+64 3 577 5402www.myantiqueshops.co.nz/ just_browsing_antiques.html

Cycle the Queen Charlotte TrackThe Queen Charlotte track stretches 70km from Ship Cove to Anakiwa and is utterly unique. The whole track can be completed in 5 days on foot or 3 days on a mountain bike with luggage transfers available by water-taxi. You will be rewarded with stunning views of Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds, plus encounters with native birds such as the fantail and weka.www.qctrack.co.nz

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Omaka Aviation Heritage CentreTake to the skies at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. It features one of the world’s largest private collections of Great War aircraft and artefacts across two exhibitions. Guided tours are available or you can self-guide at your leisure.

www.newzealand.com/au/plan/business/omaka-aviation-heritage-centre

CREDIT: RICHARD BRIGGS

5 Practical Websitesmarlboroughnz.com

Marlborough NZ is the official travel guide for visiting this world-renowned region. With plenty of information to help you explore the area as well as a section dedicated to ‘things to do’, you’ll have no trouble planning your trip.

You can even search and book accommodation, activities and more.

newzealand.com/auFor excellent general information about visiting New Zealand, 100% Pure

New Zealand is a great place to start. The site is easy to use and has everything you need to know about the various destinations, accommodation

and getting there.

nzwine.com/en/our-regions/marlborough New Zealand Wine provides a helpful summary on New Zealand’s various

wine regions and wine styles. You can decide which wines you’d like to sample before you get there and become more knowledgeable in the process.

winesofnz.comWines of NZ has a good summary of the wineries in the Marlborough region to help you plan your trip. They also provide information on wine styles, as

well listings of wine tours and events that occur in the region.

cellarmasters.com.auKeen to enjoy some Marlborough wine in Australia? Cellarmasters offers a great range of pure and intense examples from this world-famous region

delivered straight to your door.

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Discover other wine regions with our series of travel guides for wine lovers!

Cellarmasters Travel Guides

DiscoverThe best wines from the

Marlborough regionwww.cellarmasters.com.au/

marlborough

www.cellarmasters.com.au/travelguides