Behind-the-Scenes Experiences

28/05/2024 By Cameron Clarke

Beyond the Tasting Room: Behind-the-Scenes Wine Experiences in Marlborough

A standard cellar door tasting is a great introduction to Marlborough wine. However, you can go much deeper with Hop n Grape Tours.

Learn how the wine in your glass actually gets there. We can arrange genuine behind-the-scenes access to places most visitors never see.

Tractor in Marlborough vineyard. Vineyard workers picking grapes. Mountains in the background. Photo take at grape Harvest/vintage — Behind the scenes, where passion and expertise come together to create some of the world’s finest wines.

Barrel Tastings and Working Wineries

Because our guides have real industry connections, we can offer access to working wineries. Small groups may visit fermentation cellars and barrel rooms during the winemaking process.

On past tours, guests have tasted wine straight from the barrel. They have also met winemakers such as Mount Riley’s Matt Murphy.

These experiences show how wine changes from the tank to the bottle. Guests also learn why timing and technique play such an important role.

Inside Marlborough winery. photo shows hundreds of oak wine barrels and some stainless steel tanks. Wine glasses on wine barrel ready for wine tasting and barrel tasting. — From tanks to barrels, every step is carefully crafted to bring out the unique flavors and character of our Marlborough wines.

Private Tastings with a Winemaker

For guests who want something more personal, we can arrange a private tasting with a winemaker.

Instead of a standard cellar door host, you can speak directly with someone who makes the wine. Ask questions about a specific vintage or a winemaking decision.

You can also explore the differences between vineyard blocks. Find out why one block can produce noticeably different wine from the vines next door.

Wine tour guests enjoying wine straight from the barrel hosted by Mount Riley winemaker Matt murphy. guests smelling, sipping and tasting the wine. — A sneak peek into the making of our finest wines. From grape to glass, our winemakers work tirelessly to craft the perfect blend.

A Different Kind of Wine Knowledge

Most people leave a Hop n Grape tour with more than a favourite bottle. More importantly, they leave with a better understanding of Marlborough wine.

You might discover why Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc tastes the way it does. You could learn how a cool vintage affects Pinot Noir.

You will also discover what happens between harvest and the glass in front of you.

If you want to explore the process further, our Secrets of Winemaking guide takes you through winemaking step by step.

Wine tour guests on top of the large wine tanks in the winery. — A behind-the-scenes look at our wine-making demonstrations.

Book a Behind-the-Scenes Experience

These experiences are usually arranged as part of a Private Wine Tour. This allows us to build the day around genuine access rather than a fixed script.

Tell us what you’re curious about, and we’ll do our best to arrange it. Whether you want to explore barrel-aged wines or meet a winemaker, we’ll help create an experience to remember.

Guests seated in barrel room taking part in a private hosted wine tasting. — Enjoy a personalized experience, tailored to your taste and curiosity.

Book Your Unique Wine Experience Today!

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience the best of Marlborough’s wine region. Contact us today to book your unique wine experience and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of New Zealand’s most renowned wine regions.

Phone: +64 21 157 4094
Email: info@hopngrapetours.co.nz
Website: https://www.hopngrapetours.co.nz

Join us on social media:

Facebook: @hopngrapetours
Instagram: @hopngrapetours

We look forward to sharing our passion for wine with you!

Wine Tour from Picton

28/05/2024 By Cameron Clarke

A Perfect Wine Tour for Cruise Ship Guests

Wine Tours Picton:

Are you a cruise ship guest looking for a unique and memorable experience in Picton? Look no further! Our Wine Tour from Picton is specifically designed for cruise ship guests like you, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure that combines the best of Marlborough’s wine region with exceptional service and personalized attention.

Marlborough Wine Tours:

As a Picton cruise ship guest, you’re already experiencing the best of the high seas. But why settle for an ordinary excursion when you can have an unforgettable experience in Marlborough! Our private wine tours are tailored to your interests and preferences, ensuring that you enjoy every moment of your visit. With our expert guides, you’ll:

Visit some of the Marlborough’s top wineries and vineyards
Enjoy expertly curated wine tastings and pairings
Savor delicious cuisine and winery lunch options
Take in the breathtaking scenery and picturesque views of Marlborough’s wine region

What to Expect:

Our Wine Tour from Picton is approximately a 6-hour experience that includes:

Pickup from the Picton i-Site
Visits to four to five wineries and vineyards
Expertly curated wine tastings and pairings
A delicious lunch option at one of the wineries (at own cost)
Scenic views of Marlborough’s wine region

Special Offers for Cruise Ship Guests:

Wine tasting, vineyard lunch, Marlborough Wine tour, wine tasting, Marlborough Wine tours, Picton Wine tours, Marlborough Wine region — Every sip of wine is a story and every view is a masterpiece.

As a valued cruise ship guest, we’re excited to offer you special discounts and packages tailored to your unique needs. Hop ‘N Grape Tours is dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring that your wine tour experience exceeds your expectations.

Book a wine tour from Picton:

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the best of Marlborough’s wine region with Hop ‘N Grape Tours. Our Wine Tour from Picton is a unique and unforgettable experience that will make your time in Picton truly unforgettable. Book your wine tour today and take advantage of our special offers!

Book your wine tour:

Ready to book your Wine Tour from Picton? Contact us today to learn more about our exclusive packages and special offers for cruise ship guests. Let us help you create an unforgettable memory in Picton!

BOOK NOW!

https://www.hopngrapetours.co.nz

Marlborough Wine Region

22/05/2024 By Cameron Clarke

A Haven for Wine Lovers and Nature Enthusiasts

Vineyard sunset, Wine tour road though vineyard, Stunning Marlborough vineyard. — Stunning Marlborough wine region: serene vineyards meet breathtaking views

Discover the Unspoiled Beauty of Marlborough: A World-Renowned Wine Region and Natural Paradise

Marlborough Wine Region is tucked away in the picturesque South Island of New Zealand. The Marlborough wine region, a haven for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is home to some of the world’s best wine producers, as well as a stunning array of natural landscapes and charming accommodations.

Wine Country

Marlborough’s wine region is centered around the Wairau Valley, where the unique combination of climate, soil, and geography creates a perfect environment for growing grapes. The region is home to over 160 wineries, many of which offer wine tastings, tours, and vineyard experiences. From boutique wineries to large estate wineries, each one offers a unique taste of Marlborough’s renowned Sauvignon Blanc.

Accommodations

After a day of exploring the wine region, relax in one of Marlborough’s many beautiful accommodations. From luxury lodges to boutique hotels and rustic B&Bs, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. Here are a few of our top picks:

St. Leonard’s Vineyard Cottages

With charming cottages surrounded by vineyards, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. https://www.stleonards.co.nz

Centre Court Motel

Centre Court Motel is a modern and affordable accommodation located in sunny Blenheim in the wine-growing region of Marlborough. https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz

Ellena Court Motel

Relax and enjoy the experience with their luxury eleven unit complex, which provides the ultimate in comfort whether for business or pleasure. https://ellenacourt.co.nz

Hotel d’Urville

A luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Blenheim, offering stylish rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a bar. https://hoteldurville.com

Chateau Marlborough

Recognized as one of the leading luxury hotels in Marlborough, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a range of amenities and activities amidst the picturesque wine country landscape. https://marlboroughnz.co.nz

Scenic Hotel

Enjoy a truly enriching experience in this centrally located hotel that allows guests to immerse themselves in the country’s finest food and wine, with many of New Zealand’s top culinary delights just steps away. https://www.scenichotelgroup.co.nz/blenheim/scenic-hotel-marlborough/

Vintner’s Retreat

Offers self-catering villa accommodations in the heart of Marlborough. https://www.vintnersretreat.co.nz

Nature Escapes

Marlborough is not just about wine – it’s also a haven for nature lovers. From the stunning Marlborough Sounds to the beautiful rivers and forests, there’s no shortage of natural attractions to explore. Here are a few must-see destinations:

The Marlborough Sounds

A group of scenic sounds and islands that can be explored by boat or kayak.

The Wairau River

A picturesque river that flows through the heart of Marlborough’s wine country.

Kahurangi National Park

A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.

The Pelorus Bridge

A scenic bridge that spans the Pelorus River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Foodie Heaven

Marlborough is not just about wine – it’s also a foodie’s paradise. From artisanal bakeries to craft breweries, there’s no shortage of delicious food and drink to enjoy. Here are a few must-try destinations:

Marlborough Wine tour, Winery lunch, Vineyard lunch, Wine tasting couple in Vineyard. — Indulge in a taste of paradise in Marlborough, where every bite is a culinary adventure and every sip of wine is a perfect pairing.

The Marlborough Farmers Market

A weekly market selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and street food.

The Wairau Valley Wine Trail

A self-guided tour that takes you to some of Marlborough’s best wineries and restaurants.

The Vines Village

The Vines Village stores are brimming with gift ideas and tasty food, wine, whisky and gin.

Conclusion

Marlborough wine region is a haven for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its stunning natural landscapes, charming accommodations, and world-class wine producers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Marlborough is the perfect destination. And with Hop ‘n’ Grape wine tours Hop n Grape Wine Tours Marlborough operating all year round, you can experience the best of the region’s wine-making at your own pace. From the lush green landscapes of spring to the vibrant golden hues of autumn, and from the mild winters to the sunny summers, Marlborough is a year-round destination that will leave you with memories to cherish. Book your Hop ‘n’ Grape wine tour today and discover the magic of Marlborough!

Tips

Plan your trip.

Book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability.

Take your time exploring the wine region – there’s no rush!

Book a wine tour! Book NOW

Don’t forget to pack your camera – the scenery is breathtaking!

Getting There

Marlborough is easily accessible from Wellington International Airport (WLG) or Christchurch International Airport (CHC). The region has a range of transportation options, including car rentals, shuttle services, and public transportation.

http://www.blenheimshuttles.co.nz

https://www.marlboroughshuttles.co.nz

https://airnewzealand.co.nz

https://www.interislander.co.nz

https://www.bluebridge.co.nz

Stay Tuned

For more information on the Marlborough wine region and its beautiful accommodations, stay tuned for our next blog post. In the meantime, we’d love to hear from you – what’s your favorite destination in Marlborough?

Why Choose Us

05/09/2023 By Cameron Clarke

Marlborough Wine Tours — Wine a little, laugh a lot!

Why a Local Winemaker Started Hop n Grape Tours

Most wine tours are run by drivers. Cameron started Hop n Grape Tours after five years of working at Mount Riley Wines here in Marlborough.

After leaving the winery, Cameron wanted to keep sharing his wine knowledge with visitors. He also wanted to offer experiences that other tour operators cannot easily provide.

Because Cameron has worked inside a winery, he understands what happens behind the cellar door. That experience continues to shape everything we do.

Our guides are wine-trained specialists. Some hold formal qualifications in winemaking or viticulture. Others bring years of hands-on experience from the wine industry.

As a result, we can take small groups behind the scenes of working wineries. Along the way, we explain what happens in the tanks, barrels and vineyards. You will learn much more than simply what you see on the label.

Recognised for It

Over the years, our guests have recognised our commitment to quality. Hop n Grape has received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence consistently since 2016.

In 2020, TripAdvisor named us a Traveller’s Choice Winner. This placed us among the top 10% of attractions worldwide.

Naturally, we are proud of these awards. More importantly, however, our guests’ feedback means even more to us.

Many visitors arrive expecting a standard bus tour. Instead, they leave with a much better understanding of Marlborough wine and the wines they have tasted.

A Full Day, Done Properly

Our Full Day Marlborough Wine Tour visits five wineries. The experience includes tasting fees for around 25 different wines.

Along with the tastings, guests enjoy a proper gourmet lunch at a vineyard restaurant. We also provide free pickup and drop-off around Blenheim and Renwick.

During the day, you will discover internationally recognised wineries alongside smaller, family-run cellar doors. Whenever possible, we also arrange a behind-the-scenes visit to a modern working winery.

This extra access gives you a glimpse into the winemaking process that most visitors never experience on their own.

For those who prefer something more personal, our Private Wine Tours offer complete flexibility.

For example, you might visit a local sheep farm with renowned Marlborough farmer Doug Avery. Alternatively, explore the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre or focus the day on your favourite wine varieties.

Whatever your interests, we tailor the experience around what you enjoy.

Ready to Experience It Yourself?

If you want a wine tour led by someone who has actually made wine, rather than simply driven a van between cellar doors, Hop n Grape Tours is ready to welcome you.

Choose from our Full Day, Half Day or Private Wine Tours. Along the way, meet local winemakers, explore Marlborough’s famous wine region and discover the stories behind the wines.

So, if you’re ready to experience Marlborough through the eyes of people who know wine from the inside out, book your wine tour with Hop n Grape Tours today.

Book Your Wine Adventure

BOOK NOW!

Top 10 Boutique Wineries Blenheim

09/06/2023 By Cameron Clarke

Blenheim’s Boutique Wineries

Introduction:

Welcome to Marlborough, a region renowned for its world-class wines. However, amidst the fame of its larger wineries, there is an undeniable allure to boutique wineries. These hidden gems offer a distinct and intimate experience that sets them apart. From personalized tastings to unique varietals, boutique wineries showcase the artistry and passion of winemaking in a truly special way. With their unique experiences and exceptional wines, these hidden gems capture the essence of Marlborough. So, let us embark on a journey to uncover the hidden treasures of Marlborough’s boutique wineries. With their exceptional wines, charming atmospheres, and personalized experiences, these boutique wineries offer a unique and memorable adventure. Join us as we delve into the world of boutique winemaking and discover the essence of Marlborough’s wine culture.

Greywacke

Founded by renowned winemaker Kevin Judd, Greywacke is a name synonymous with excellence in winemaking. Known for their exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, Greywacke wines showcase Marlborough’s unique characteristics. Visit their boutique winery and cellar door, immerse yourself in the vineyard’s ambiance, and experience the artistry behind their acclaimed wines.

Gibson Bridge

Nestled in the heart of Marlborough, Gibson Bridge is a standout boutique winery known for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Additionally, their vineyards yield exquisite aromatic wines, with their signature Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer standing out as true highlights. The unique terroir and meticulous winemaking techniques result in wines that are rich in flavor, complexity, and character. Indulge in the sensory delights offered by these exceptional varietals and experience the distinct charm of their vineyard expressions. The owners’ passion shines through in every sip, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts seeking something extraordinary.

Nautilus Estate

Celebrated for its sophisticated wines, Nautilus Estate seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. With a focus on handcrafted excellence, their wines beautifully express the unique qualities of Marlborough’s diverse terroir. From renowned Méthode Traditionnelle wines to exceptional Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, Nautilus Estate guarantees a memorable tasting experience at their boutique winery.

Nautilus winery tasting room from the outside showing the Nautilus shell. — **The Captivating Wines of Nautilus Estate**
https://www.nautilusestate.com

Johanneshof

Johanneshof is a boutique winery dedicated to crafting elegant, handcrafted wines using traditional European winemaking techniques. Their portfolio includes exceptional Méthode Traditionnelle wines, aromatic whites, and cool-climate reds. Visit their charming cellar door and appreciate the dedication and passion that go into each bottle.

Bladen

Bladen is a boutique winery dedicated to producing small-batch, premium wines with a distinct Marlborough character. From their elegant Sauvignon Blanc to their expressive Pinot Noir, every sip reveals the passion and craftsmanship behind their exceptional wines. A visit to Bladen offers an intimate and personalized experience.

Forrest Wines

Forrest Wines, founded by Dr. John Forrest and his wife, Brigid, is known for its diverse range of varietals and innovative winemaking techniques. From their award-winning Sauvignon Blanc to their rich, full-bodied reds, Forrest Wines offers a journey through Marlborough’s vinous treasures. Their boutique winery and cellar door welcomes visitors to taste and explore their exceptional wines.

Forrest wine tasting — **Unleashing the flavors of nature in every sip at Forrest Wines**
https://www.forrest.co.nz

Clos Henri

Clos Henri seamlessly blends the traditions of the Loire Valley with the distinct Marlborough terroir. By cultivating Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir in the clay-limestone soils, they craft wines that exude finesse, balance, and an unmistakable sense of place. A visit to Clos Henri offers a wonderful wine tasting experience.

Framingham

Framingham Wines is a renowned boutique winery in Marlborough known for its exceptional cool-climate wines. With a focus on sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention, their aromatic whites, like Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, stand out. Discover their vibrant and expressive wines at their cellar door, where you’ll experience their warm hospitality firsthand.

Rock Ferry: Currently Closed

Rock Ferry Wines is a standout boutique winery located in Marlborough. They are committed to organic and biodynamic practices, ensuring their wines reflect the purity of the land. With a diverse range of varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, Rock Ferry Wines offers a unique and unforgettable tasting experience. Their dedication to quality and sustainability shines through in every sip, making them a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

Rock Ferry wine tasting hosted in their vineyard — **Indulge in the pure essence of organic wines at Rock Ferry, where sustainability meets exceptional taste.**
https://rockferry.co.nz

No.1 Family Estate

No.1 Family Estate, founded by Daniel Le Brun, is a renowned boutique winery in Marlborough specializing in exceptional sparkling wines. With a commitment to traditional method production, their wines are known for their elegance, complexity, and fine craftsmanship. A visit to No.1 Family Estate is a must for sparkling wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of world-class bubbles.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a journey through Marlborough’s boutique wineries is an experience like no other. With Hop N Grape Tours as your guide, you’ll discover the remarkable craftsmanship, passion, and the unique terroir that defines these wineries. Let the hidden gems of Marlborough captivate your senses and create unforgettable memories. Raise your glass to the artistry and dedication poured into every bottle, and toast to the flavors that have made this region renowned. Cheers to an extraordinary wine-tasting adventure! For more info please enjoy Top 10 Marlborough wineries

Book your wine tour now with Hop N Grape Tours!

BOOK NOW!