Setting
Waiheke’s highest-elevated vineyard boasts a new state-of-the-art gravity-fed winery with awe-inspiring views to the Gulf islands and beyond. You can taste the wines at the lovely cellar door and restaurant – dubbed Thomas’s Bach, after the Thomas family who own the winery – or on the outdoor deck. There are lots of opportunities for super outdoor photos and be sure to look through the glass doors at the barrel hall set into the hillside.

Things To Know
Although winemaker Daniel Struckman’s rather smart chardonnay, Blanc de Blanc, sells out in no time, both his rosé and riesling sparklings make great alternatives. The Batch label is for entry-level wines while Thomas & Sons is the estate vineyard and premium reserve wine label. The restaurant serves lunch plates or indulge yourself and go for the delicious high tea. It’s a three-tier selection of goodies served with the prosecco-style Fizz Riesling – at $60 for two, it’s money well spent.

Our Picks
Try the Thomas & Sons Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, as well as the Pinot Gris 2013 – the latter is a wine that seems to match all kinds of dishes.