Marlborough Vineyards

It is in the vineyards and wine trails of central Marlborough, with its urban centre of Blenheim, that you'll find the heartland of Sauvignon Blanc.

High sunshine hours, cool nights and a long growing season, when coupled with relatively low rainfall during the ripening season, result in Marlborough blends of this grape consistently being voted the best in the world.

Marlborough is the largest grape-growing and winemaking region in New Zealand with over 85 wineries and 275 grape-growers producing 57.1% of the national crop.

Our focus here is on Wither Hills, whose Sauvignon Blanc 2004 won Double Gold in the San Francisco Wine Competition in 2004. They have amassed 23 trophies and 62 gold medals in just 10 years of operation, with only 3 wines. Their cellar door is open 7 days, 10am-4.30pm, and tastings and tours are free of charge, all of which we can organise for you as part of your South Island itinerary.

Marlborough is a foodies paradise as well; not only can you taste a variety of award-winning wines, you can also sample fresh Marlborough Sounds oysters, taste local lamb or game in first class restaurants that sprinkle the area, or discover salmon secrets in a top cooking school.

Check out some of our other Wine Trails vineyards.