Setting
The Sileni Estates building is unmissable, backing onto the foothills of the Raukawa Range and looking out across the western end of the Bridge Pa Triangle. It’s a remarkable piece of architecture, housing a state-of-the-art winery, cellar door and store, and a popular function venue inside.

Things to know
Sir Graham Avery was an Auckland medical publishing businessman who saw huge potential in Hawke’s Bay early on, and built Sileni Estate in 1997. Eventually expanding its vineyard sites into Marlborough, Sileni Estate’s winemaking team has a vast range of terroir to choose from in order to create award-winning wines. There are three tiers of wine: Cellar Selection, Estate Selection and the premium EV (Exceptional Vintage) range. Cellar door manager Anne Boustead can provide visitors with gourmet cheese platters to enjoy with a glass of wine.

Our picks
The 2013 merlot-based reds are mouthwatering, the Hawke’s Bay pinot noirs have great complexity and the Parkhill Pinot Gris has a lovely mineral element.

Plus
Be warned, your wallet may take a hammering once you start exploring the cellar door store. Packed from floor to ceiling with all manner of gourmet foodie treats, kitchen accessories and cookbooks from around the world, there’s also a special cheese room for fromage fans.