Cuisine Wine

Waipara Hills Winery

Setting
This enormous, stately, stone-clad building has lofty ceilings and heavy doors so it feels like you’re walking into a cathedral-like structure, but the friendly smiles will have you feeling relaxed in no time.

Things to know
Previously home to Mud House wines, this popular destination is solely devoted to serving Waipara Hills wines and excellent food. Winemaker Simon McGeorge has created a huge range of wines sourced from company vineyards in Waipara, Central Otago and Marlborough and he can divulge more detail in one of his “behind the scenes” tours and tastings. Dine outside or in at the cafe – try crowd favourites such as the mushroom and bacon wraps – and don’t leave without sneaking a peek at the shop, which is packed with an array of artworks, skincare and tempting delicatessen items.

Our picks
Waipara Hills Equinox wines are deemed the pinnacle of what McGeorge and his team can achieve with the fruit from each vintage – the pinot noir and pinot gris are superb.

Plus
See if you can time your visit to coincide with the annual Winery Tour concert (winerytour.co.nz).