Cuisine Wine

Murdoch James Estate

Setting
Down a poplar-lined driveway (complete with wooden bridge and gurgling stream) is the multi-level Murdoch James winery. A sunny veranda wraps around the building and overlooks the Wairarapa plains on one side, and lawns, gardens and ponds on the other. On cooler days, cuddle up on the leather armchairs in front of the fireplace.

Things To Know
Martinborough’s only hillside vineyard was founded by Roger and Jill Fraser in 1986. Today son Carl is the winemaker and Carl’s partner, Nicola, takes visitors on guided ‘Grape to Glass’ tours. There are two tiers, the Estate series and the Blue Rock range, named after the distinctive blue-grey-coloured rocks found beneath the soil.

Our Picks
The pinot noir is fleshy, the pinot gris is mineral-driven, and you must try the Blue Rock Syrah.

Bloom Restaurant 
Fans of glitz and glam will love the sparkly lights adorning the bar, glass candelabras, rococo-style mirrors and even a disco ball! The meat is free range, the fish sustainably caught and the vegetables are organic. Think comfort food with an elegant edge.
Hours: Thurs-Mon 11.30am-3.30pm (closed August)