Setting
Housed in a black corrugated iron shed in a leafy, rural idyll is this tiny winery and tasting shed where, alongside wines crafted by the talented Rosie Butler, you’ll find various ancient fossils on display that have been uncovered in the vineyard.

Things to know
“Vit-ecology” is the word invented by Rosie and husband Rodger Tynan to describe their philosophy of minimal disturbance in the vineyard. Their wines are a reflection of the natural biodiversity, which is encouraged by protecting the limestone-laden soils and promoting beneficial inter-row crop growth.

Our picks
The White Knuckle Hill Pinot Noir is named after the hair-raising task of mowing this vertigo-inducingly steep vineyard. The pinot gris and grüner veltliner have clean minerality on the palate.

Plus
Pick up some picnic supplies en-route and commandeer one of the outdoor tables to enjoy a glass of wine and a snack in the sun. Ask Rodger for a tour out among the hills to see the majestically rocky limestone outcrops and spectacular views over the Ruataniwha Plains to the Ruahine Ranges.