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.

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.

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.

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!

Book your wine tour now with Hop N Grape Tours!

Discover the Secrets of Winemaking at Hop ‘n Grape Tours

Introduction:

At Hop ‘n Grape Tours, we believe that wine is more than just a beverage. It’s a work of art, crafted with passion and expertise. Today, we invite you on a journey behind the scenes, as we unveil the secrets of winemaking. Join us as we take you through the fascinating process that transforms grapes into the exquisite wines.

The Artistry of Grape Harvesting:

Our winemaking adventure begins in the vineyards, where the artistry of grape harvesting takes place. Under the skilled hands of our dedicated vineyard team, grapes are carefully hand-picked at their optimal ripeness. Learn about the science and intuition that guides this crucial stage, as we select the finest grapes.

Harvesting grapes using a mechanical harvester is a modern technique that has revolutionized the winemaking industry. With precision and efficiency, these innovative machines gently shake the vines, allowing ripe grapes to detach and fall into collection bins. Mechanical harvesting has numerous advantages, including increased speed and cost-effectiveness, especially for large vineyards. While traditional hand harvesting remains a preferred method for some winemakers who value meticulous selection, the use of mechanical harvesters has become widespread, enabling wineries to process grapes swiftly and maintain the quality and freshness needed for exceptional wines.

From Grapes to Juice: The Gentle Press:

Once the grapes are harvested, they embark on their transformational journey. With the gentle pressing process, the grapes are delicately crushed to extract the precious juice. We’ll reveal the techniques employed to preserve the character and purity of the grapes, ensuring that every drop of juice is brimming with potential. Allow us to show you the secrets of winemaking.

Fermentation: Nature’s Alchemy:

Step into our fermentation cellar, where nature’s alchemy takes center stage. Experience the magic and secrets of winemaking as yeast interacts with the grape juice, converting sugars into alcohol and releasing a symphony of flavors and aromas. We’ll explore the temperature control and monitoring methods that allow us to craft wines with precision and finesse.

Barrel Aging: Time’s Touch of Elegance:

Discover the significance of barrel aging as we lead you to our tranquil cellar filled with rows of oak barrels. Witness how time and patience work their magic, imparting complexity, depth, and subtle nuances to our wines. Learn about the different types of barrels used, from French oak to American oak, and how they contribute to the final flavor profile.

The Art of Blending: Crafting Harmony:

Winemaking is not only a science but also an art, and nowhere is this more evident than in the art of blending. Join us as we delve into the intricate process of harmonizing different varietals and creating a symphony of flavors. Explore the meticulous trial and error, the careful tasting, and the masterful blending that result in our exceptional wines.

Conclusion:

At Hop n Grape Tours, our commitment to winemaking excellence is unwavering. We take pride in sharing the secrets and artistry behind the wines that grace your glass. Join us on a behind-the-scenes tour, and gain a newfound appreciation for the passion, craftsmanship, and dedication that go into every bottle. Cheers to the enchanting world of winemaking!

BOOK YOUR WINE TOUR NOW!!! www.hopngrapetours.co.nz

If you’re planning a wine tour in Marlborough, you’re in for a treat. Here are the 10 best wineries to visit in Marlborough. This list is always changing and evolving and depends on the season and the staff as much as the wine quality.

This region is known for producing some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world.

What may surprise you is the quality of the other varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. With over 100 wineries in the area, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. Here are the 10 best wineries to visit in Marlborough, each with their own unique features and must-try wines.

Cloudy Bay

1. Cloudy Bay: Cloudy Bay is one of the most well-known wineries in Marlborough. It has a reputation for producing exceptional Sauvignon Blanc. Their immaculate cellar door is located in a stunning setting overlooking the Richmond Ranges. They offer tastings of their award-winning wines, including their iconic Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc. There cellar door is very popular and the best way to secure a wine tasting is by booking on our wine tour. https://www.cloudybay.com/en-nz
2. Allan Scott Family Winemakers: Allan Scott is a family-owned winery that has been operating in Marlborough for over 30 years. Allan Scott offer a range of wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. Don’t miss their delicious Gewürztraminer and Methode Traditionnelle sparkling wines. Lunch in their restaurant is also not to be missed. Exclusive to Hop n Grape customers you will enjoy a wine tasting with your lunch. https://allanscott.com/
3. Saint Clair Wines: Saint Clair Family Estate is a Marlborough winery. They make award-winning wines. Established in 1994 by Neal and Judy Ibbotson. Wines made from grapes sourced from the best vineyards. Range of varietals include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Merlot. Offers wine tasting experiences and guided tours. Visitors can also sample local cheeses and meats. Must-visit winery for exceptional wine and welcoming atmosphere. When the sun is shining guests on the Hop n Grape tour enjoy sitting in the Saint Clair vineyard and enjoying a delicious wine tasting before lunch. https://saintclair.co.nz/pages/vineyard-kitchen
4. Nautilus Estate: Nautilus Estate is a boutique winery that produces small-batch, high-quality wines. Their cellar door is located in a stunning setting surrounded by vineyards, and they offer tastings of their Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, as well as their unique Cuvee Marlborough Brut NV sparkling wine.https://www.nautilusestate.com/
5. Villa Maria Estate: Villa Maria is one of New Zealand’s largest and most well-respected wineries, with vineyards throughout the country. Their Marlborough cellar door offers tastings of their award-winning wines, including their iconic Sauvignon Blanc and Cellar Selection Pinot Noir. They also offer some aged Merlot and Cab Sav from their Hawkes Bay vineyards.
6. Spy Valley Wines: Spy Valley is a family-owned winery that produces a range of varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Their cellar door is located in a unique setting near to a satellite communication dish. Their wine tasting room has the quintessential Marlborough view of vineyards and mountain ranges and the staff are exceptional.https://spyvalleywine.co.nz/
7. Yealands Estate: Yealands Estate is a sustainable winery that produces a range of varietals, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Gruner Veltliner. Their cellar door is located in a stunning setting overlooking the Awatere Valley. They offer tastings of their wines, as well as tours of their vineyards and winery. There is a unique drive through their vineyard to an exceptional view of the ocean, vineyards and mountains.
8. Framingham Wines: Framingham is a boutique winery that produces a range of varietals, including Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Montepulciano. Their cellar door is located in a charming setting in the heart of Marlborough. They offer tastings of their award-winning wines. They also offer tours of their winery when you are on a tour with Hop n Grape. https://framingham.co.nz/
9. Greywacke: Greywacke is a well-known and highly respected winery in Marlborough that is considered a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The winery was founded in 2009 by Kevin Judd, a winemaker with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Judd is best known for his work as the founding winemaker at Cloudy Bay. Greywacke is a must-visit Marlborough winery for anyone who appreciates great wine, beautiful surroundings, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to learn more about Marlborough wines, a visit to Greywacke is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience.https://greywacke.com/
10. Mount Riley: is a family-owned winery located in Marlborough that is considered a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The winery was founded in 1992 by John Buchanan. Mount Riley offers a range of wines that are only available at their tasting room.

Mount Riley Winery

The winery’s wines are highly regarded for their quality, complexity, and balance, and they have received numerous awards.

One of the reasons why Mount Riley is a must-visit Marlborough winery is the unique terroir of the vineyards. The winery is located in the Wairau Valley, which is known for its diverse soils and microclimates. This allows Mount Riley to produce wines with distinct flavors and aromas that reflect the terroir of the region.

Another reason to visit Mount Riley is the winery’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices.

Visitors to Mount Riley can enjoy a range of wine tasting experiences, from a casual tasting in the winery’s cellar door to a guided tour of the vineyards and winery hosted by Hop n Grape tours. https://mountriley.co.nz/

Marlborough is full of amazing award winning wineries

If you are passionate about Wine then visiting Marlborough is a must. There are some fantastic wineries to visit. To make the most of your time in Marlborough contact us to book your Full day or Private wine tour. Multi day tours are also an option if you would like to visit all 10. These are the 10 best wineries to visit in Marlborough.

Book Now

https://hopngrapetours.co.nz/book-now-marlborough-wine-and-beer-tour/

Marlborough offers some incredible Elite tour offerings. Indulge in a five-star experience at a luxury retreat, offering premium food, wine and brilliant views. Whether it be in a secluded bay in the Marlborough Sounds, or among the vines in Marlborough. Winery options are plentiful with group or private tours available by bike or luxury van. We suggest Luxury van.

At Hop n Grape tours we offer a range of different tours including Luxury Private tours.

Marlborough Elite Tours Private Wine Tours

Enjoy a Marlborough Elite Tours – private tour of Marlborough’s famous wine trail. Sample New Zealand’s internationally-acclaimed Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals on one of many wine tours.

Relax and unwind over a leisurely lunch at one of the award-winning winery restaurants. Enjoy a match of fresh local produce with the wine to create the ultimate ocean-to-plate, vine-to-glass experience.

Finish the day off in style at one of many luxury retreats among the vines or Sounds.

Indulge in a romantic stay at a resort in the Marlborough Sounds.

We can arrange private wine tastings and a Private dinning experience at Cloudy bay winery. This is a food and wine matched experience at New Zealand’s leading winery Cloudy Bay.https://www.newzealand.com/nz/plan/business/cloudy-bay-the-shack-marlborough/

Cloudy Bay Wine tasting

If you are looking for a unique and highly tailor wine and food experience, contact Hop n Grape for a detailed quote and itinerary.