Cuisine Wine

Peacock Sky

Setting
High on a hill framed by native bush, this is a relaxed, indoor-outdoor tasting room. Located in the centre of Waiheke, this wonderful estate is also home to a flock of wild peacocks – hence the name.

Things To Know
Bursting with enthusiasm and warmth, Canadian Connie Festa and British partner Rob Meredith are obsessive about matching wine and food, and you’re assured of a memorable time here. Casual grazing-style food and wine matching is available or you may wish to take a picnic basket and explore the nature trail on the property. The wines, including a methode traditionnelle, are meticulously crafted but only made in small numbers – all are lovely and worth trying.

Our Picks
The 2012 Blanc de Noirs is an unusual methode traditionnelle made from estate-grown merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Try the terrific chardonnay or, if it’s no longer available, sample the 2010 cabernet sauvignon.

Le Cote De La Colline
Gourmet dining here combines all the charm and verve that Waiheke is becoming world-famous for. The signature dish to look out for is Maltese – a hearty bowl of New Zealand green-lipped mussels in a broth of delicious chardonnay with freshly chopped basil, sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, accompanied with warm crusty bread.

Hours as for cellar door