Cuisine Wine

Loopline Vineyard

Setting
A zippy nine minutes south of Masterton is the charming little ‘Tin Shed’ that houses the Loopline cellar door. This old converted calf-rearing shed is also where owners Ian and Jenny McGovern do everything else by hand including the pressing, bottling and labelling of the wines. Ian is out in the vineyard himself most days, so when the gate buzzer signals your arrival, Bell, the feisty fox terrier, is off like a shot to greet you. “She’s the welcoming committee,” he laughs.

Things To Know
It’s a beautiful, scenic spot, the Wairarapa’s most northern winery and is featured in the NZ Native Parks map (see nativeparks.co.nz). Named after the road it sits on, the McGoverns bought the operation in 2002 after being growers for Loopline since 1999.

Our Picks
The late-harvest rieslingis a sweet treat and the sauvignon, pinot noir and riesling are favourites with the locals.

Plus
During January Loopline hosts an annual jazz and blues concert.