Setting
Elevated above the surrounding vines and providing a sensational vista across the valley floor to the wooded hills beyond, Linden Estate is the first vineyard you’ll spot upon arrival in Hawke’s Bay from Taupo. You’ll find it hard to tear yourself away from the balcony and its gorgeous views.

Things to know
The first grapes on the Linden site, around 12 hectares of palomino and riesling, were planted in 1971 with the assistance of Sir Tom McDonald and McWilliams Wines. Nowadays you’ll find chardonnay, merlot, sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, syrah, viognier, gewurztraminer and pinot gris – so there’s a wine style here for every preference.

Our picks
If you love rich, spicy viognier and luscious, lychee-laden gewurztraminer, try Linden winemaker Trevor Shepherd’s superb examples.

Valley D’Vine Restaurant
Greg Miller is one of Hawke’s Bays best-known chefs – locals love his parmesan-crusted lamb sweetbreads and seared venison Denver leg with gnocchi and chorizo. The courtyard at Valley d’Vine is spacious, the tasting and dining room modern and funky – and the cosy gazebo is just the place to cuddle up with a night cap.

Hours Thurs-Sat 11am-late, Sun & Wed 11am-4pm