I wonder if, when the first vines were planted on Waiheke in 1977, anyone imagined it would become the wine mecca we love today. Located off the coast of our largest city, tourists short on time to get to the regions can take a 45 minute ferry sailing from downtown to get their fix of fantastic New Zealand wine in situ. Waiheke boasts approximately 900,000 visitors annually and it’s easy to see why. Its Mediterranean- esque micro climate, stunning beaches and thriving art scene makes Waiheke a slice of heaven. All that, and some pretty exceptional boutique wines hail from there.

Purchased in 1992 as an escape from the rat race, Mudbrick Winery has evolved into a must-visit location on the island. With sweeping views over the Hauraki Gulf and romantic rustic brick buildings, it unsurprisingly has become a popular wedding destination. For those not ready to commit, Mudbrick also boasts boutique accommodation, two restaurants and a deck that is the perfect place to share a bottle of wine. Perhaps their reserve chardonnay might be to your taste? It most certainly was to our judging panel who were beguiled by this Waiheke wonder, which they described as having ripe and figgy aromas intermingled with nougat and almond on the nose making this wine instantly appealing. Once you delve into the well-weighted palate, ripe fruit flavours sit alongside judicious but beautifully balanced oak. The finish is lengthy with a persistence that makes this wine intensely moreish. Delightful.