Setting
It’s impossible to miss the eye-catching new home of Wrights Winery about 15 minutes south of Gisborne. With a backdrop of Young Nick’s Head headland, surrounding vineyards and views out to the Poverty Bay, this spot is ideal on a sunny day, with plentiful seating on the lawn or under the pillared pathways. Alongside is a jungle gym, sandpit and swings to entertain the kids. Inside, the cellar door has a cosy, rustic charm, with exposed wooden beams and inviting leather chairs.

Things To Know
Owners Geoff and Nicola Wright, with help from their four young sons, host all visitors to the cellar door. Winemaker Geoff produces varieties characteristic to Gisborne such as chardonnay and gewurztraminer, along with sauvignon blanc, syrah, semillon, viognier, pinot gris, pinot noir and methode traditionnelle. All Wrights wines are certified organic, low-allergen and made using biodynamic practises. As well as the flagship Wrights label, they produce the approachable Natural Wine Company range, available at supermarkets nationwide. Platters, paninis and fresh baking are always available at the cellar door (make sure you try the signature dark chocolate and syrah cake), or opt for a tasting of four wines matched with four tapas.

Our Picks
The Wrights Reserve Chardonnay 2013 and Wrights Entity Methode Traditionnelle 2010.

Plus
Time your visit carefully and you may be able to hitch a ride on Gisborne’s historic vintage steam train WA 165, which runs regular excursions out to the nearby Browns Beach during summer – the Wrights will collect you and drop you back when it’s time to depart. There is also a complete wine-tasting package – you’ll be picked up and taken on a small Gisborne tour before heading out to the cellar door. There you can try the olive oil, preserved olives, dukkah and verjuice. On Saturday afternoons there’s often live music to enjoy while tasting.