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Wine Tour from Picton

28/05/2024 By Cameron Clarke

A Perfect Wine Tour for Cruise Ship Guests

Wine Tours Picton:

wine tasting, Marlborough Wine tours, Picton Wine tours, Marlborough Wine region
Experience the best of Marlborough’s wine region.

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:

wine tasting, Marlborough Wine tours, Picton Wine tours, Marlborough Wine region
Sip and savor the moment on an unforgettable wine tour adventure!

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:

wine tasting, Marlborough Wine tours, Picton Wine tours, Marlborough Wine region
Let the beauty of Marlborough’s wine region leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

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:

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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

Filed Under: Beer tasting, Uncategorized, Wine tour, Winery Restaurant] Tagged With: Marlborough Sauvignon blanc, Marlborough Wine Tours, Picton wine tours, Sauvignon Blanc, vineyard restaurants, Wine tasting, Wine tasting Marlborough

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:

Escape to the tranquil oasis of Marlborough accommodations, where plush amenities and breathtaking vineyard views await you in a haven of relaxation and tranquility.

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, Boat in the Marlborough Sounds, Things to do near me, Things to do in Marlborough, Things to do in Picton.
Escape to the great outdoors and let nature’s serenity soothe your soul.

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! www.hopngrapetours.co.nz

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?

Filed Under: Beer tasting, Uncategorized, Wine tour, Winery Restaurant] Tagged With: Marlborough, Marlborough Wine Tours, Wine tour accommodation, Wine tours near me

Restaurant and Tasting room

08/06/2020 By Cameron Clarke

  • Wairau River restaurant
  • Pioneers of Wine and food
  • Tasting room tours with Hop n Grape
  • Family Winemakers
  • Wairau River lunch
    Marlborough locals love the food wine and atmosphere at Wairau River Restaurant

Wairau River restaurant

A great restaurant and tasting room in the heart of the Marlborough wine region. One of the best things about booking a Marlborough Wine tour with Hop n Grape is that they take care of all the bookings. One of the most important bookings is lunch. We are lucky to have a great relationship with Wairau River and are lucky enough to visit them regularly for wine and lunch.

Pioneers of Wine and food

It was in 1978 when Phil and Chris Rose established their vineyards on the banks of the Wairau River. Now, all five Rose children are highly engaged to Marlborough and along with their partners are involved in the family wine business.

Tasting room tours with Hop n Grape

At Hop n Grape Wine and beer tours, we love to visit Wairau River both during the Marlborough wine tour with guests, and also on our days off with friends and family. This really shows the quality of the wine and the staff. Visitors to the region love the generous portions and quality of food. Locals love the atmosphere and the award winning wines.

The Wairau River Cellar Door and Restaurant and tasting room is one of Marlborough’s original wine tourism destinations which was successfully launched in 1991. It is an amazing place to visit.

The inside of the restaurant is beautiful and cosy, and the courtyard next to the vines is stunning. The entire place is neat with a fantastic setting and a friendly atmosphere.

Family Winemakers

The attention to detail both in terms of the quality of food and wine is exceptional. Today, it is being managed and run by the eldest daughter Pip Rose. Working with her are her younger sister Caroline Rose and her partner Tane Malcolm who are the head chefs. The menu focuses on fresh Marlborough ingredients and changes with the seasons.

Wairau River’s Cellar Door is the perfect place to taste the wide range of their award-winning wines and learn more about Marlborough and its grape growing history. The cellar door hosts are friendly and knowledgeable.

Book a Wine tour
Visit Wairau River’s Website

Filed Under: Wine tour, Winery Restaurant] Tagged With: 5 Best places to eat in Marlborough, Marlborough Sauvignon blanc, Marlborough Wine, Marlborough Wine Tours, Vineyard lunch, Vineyard Tour, Wine tasting, Wine tours, Winery restaurants, Winery tours

5 Best Winery Restaurants in Marlborough

04/06/2020 By Cameron Clarke

We bring you the best winery restaurants in Marlborough. This list was produced to save you time trying to decide where you go. To save yourself even more time just book yourself on a Full or Half day wine tour.

  • Lunches on a Wine tour
  • Setting, Menu and Staff
  • Top 5 winery restaurants in Marlborough for Lunch
  • Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen
  • Wairau River Restaurant
  • Allan Scott Wines
  • Wither Hills Restaurant
  • Brancott Estate
  • Summary of the best winery restaurant in Marlborough

Lunches on a Wine tour

When we book lunches for groups on the Wine tour we consider a number of factors. The winery restaurant is a major part of the day and is the longest stop of the day, usually taking about 1.5 hours.

Luckily we have lots of amazing wineries to choose from. All of them are very different and all are fantastic for different reasons. To make this list the things we considered include;

Group celebrating a Marlborough Wine tour on a sunny day.  Outdoor dining at lunch keeps lunch fun and fresh.  Marlborough has some beautiful restaurant to eat outside at.  Groups love to celebrate together.
Celebrate the Marlborough view, weather and wine with an outdoor lunch

Winery and vineyard Lunch categories and considerations in becoming one of the best winery restaurants in Marlborough

Setting, Menu and Staff

  • Setting-In door/out door flow and seating. We use different restaurant in different seasons and depending on the wind, rain and temperature
  • Menu- Variety and cost. As we book for groups usually before we meet them, we need to make sure the restaurants we choose have a wide variety of options, and can cater for different food sensitivities.
  • Cost is also a factor as you want a good volume but don’t want to have to pay “tourist prices.” Lunch prices are different to dinner prices.
  • Wine- Call me a snob but the wine has to be perfect and the wine range varied to exceed the expectations of everyone on the wine tour.
  • Staff- Summer season can be very busy and stressful. The wrong staff or manager can ruin a perfectly great experience. The staff need to be friendly and professional.
  • Timing- There challengers for tour operators is always timing the tasting, lunch and returning guests on time. If lunch is held up then the afternoon runs late. Restaurants that can consistently facilitate the group dining and tasting experience in a punctual fashion often become our favorites.

Top 5 winery restaurants in Marlborough for Lunch

Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen

Vineyard setting at Saint Clair in Summer is outdoor eating at its best.

Saint Clair‘s tasting room and restaurant is very accessible and just about ten minutes drive from the center of Blenheim. It has a peaceful vineyard setting with stunning views of the vines and the Richmond Range. The courtyard offers outdoor dining where you can enjoy the sun and dine amongst the vines.

Saint Clair veranda section on cooler days offers sheltered from the elements through extensive floor to ceiling glass sliding doors.

The menu constantly changes reflecting some of the best seasonal produce and finest delicacies Marlborough has to offer. There are different options available to meet any dietary requirements. The manager and the rest of the staff are very professional and friendly with a warm welcome and smooth departure. The cost is acceptable and the portion size is adequate. Their timing is always perfect for the wine tour.

Visit Saint Clair
More information about a Winery tour visiting all of these Wineries

Wairau River Restaurant

Wine tasting in Marlbrough at the best restaurants
Wairau River have a beautiful established outside eating options

Update: Please note Wairau River has re-opened their restaurant. Called No.11@Wairau https://www.wairauriverwines.com/cellar-door-restaurant/

One of the regions original wine tourism destinations is Wairau River winery is. The menu is simple and delicious focusing on fresh Marlborough ingredients that changes with the seasons. There is a good range of options to choose from, its not extensive but every dish is perfect.

The place is amazing. The inside of the restaurant is nice and cosy, there is a large open fire in the middle and there is no better restaurant on a winters day.

Wairau River the atmosphere is casual and down to earth but it has the polish of a proud family that has been running this for generations. The wine tasting is$20 per person for 4 wines.

Visit Wairau River

Allan Scott Wines

Wine tasting at Allan Scott
Allan Scott Lunch outside in the courtyard

Twelve Trees Restaurant got its name from the walnut trees that lined the entrance to the Scott’s winery. It is 8 km from Blenheim and 5 km from Renwick. This venue is surrounded by manicured gardens which are great for children to explore. The food is great and the atmosphere is truly relaxing, whether in the sheltered courtyard or inside by the fire. The undercover outdoor courtyard is exceptional even if the day is wet or windy.

The menu goes with a simple food philosophy, “fresh & local”. The seasonal menu changes regularly, but consistently features quality produce from many local suppliers which go very well with the delicious The menu offers a wide range of delicious food options that meet different dietary requirements. The team at Allan Scotts are fantastic and they are open 7 days. We always go to Allan Scott on Monday’s and Tuesday!!!

Visit Allan Scott
Book a Full day Wine tour with Hop n Grape tours and get taken to the best wineries in Marlborough

Wither Hills Restaurant

Witherhill courtyard lunch platter
Wither Hills courtyard is perfect for platter

Marlborough’s Wither Hills Restaurant offers platters, delicious lunch and desserts. It is a great place to sit and gaze across to the dramatic hills. The view from Wither Hills is absolutely stunning and would make the most incredible wedding venue.   All the food is interesting and more at the fine dinning, top end of the spectrum. If you are vegetarian/vegan/have allergies there is always an interesting choice.

The service is efficient but not rushed, its great when you have all afternoon to relax. The venue has reasonably easy access, there is a small hill or stairs to walk up but has plenty of spacious parking.

The restaurant is a very good place to dine, relax and just simply appreciate the beauty of nature.

We love the tower which provides a fantastic location for photos and the barrel room with its European atmosphere. Great range of wines to match.

Brancott Estate

Brancott Estate Restaurant is currently Closed due to COVID and Govt regulations. They have no intentions to open any time soon but I will update this immediately if this changes.

Has magnificent views of the Marlborough landscape which enhances dining experience. Its breathtaking location makes it a very popular spot. There are only 10 tables and they all have views right across Marlborough and over to the North island.

Best suited to couples and families without children as there is no where for the kids to play. The view is breathtaking so the restaurant is the perfect place for a long lunch.

Summary of the best winery restaurant in Marlborough

Marlborough has so many fantastic wineries, chefs, foodies and wine all competing that the standards here are world class. Travellers from all over the world have continuously told me that the lunch on the wine tour was the best they have had in New Zealand and 2nd to none in the world.

If you plan to have a couple of glasses of wine then I suggest you get yourself booked on a tour and I will choose the best winery restaurant in Marlborough for you. The best restaurant changes from week to week and season to season so the safest best is to give us a call.

Book Now Page

Filed Under: Wine tour, Winery Restaurant] Tagged With: 5 Best places to eat in Marlborough, Allan Scott, Best lunch, Blenheim wine tours, Brancott, Cruise ship tours, Marlborough Wine Tours, Picton wine tours, Private wine tour, Private wine tours, Saint Clair, Sauvignon Blanc, St Clair, Wairau River, Wine tours, Winery lunch, Winery restaurants, Winery tours, Witherhills

Winery and Vineyard Tours

02/06/2020 By Cameron Clarke

Mount Riley Wines

Winery in Autum
Learn and experience where wine comes from

Mount Riley Winery a Family owned vineyard

Full day Winery and Vineyard tours at you to Mount Riley Wines. It offers wines that are approachable and down to earth – much like the people behind their fabulous wines.

Winery Cellar door close to Blenheim

Visit Mount Riley Website

Its cellar door is right in front of the winery, which is actually within one of their Marlborough vineyards, just outside of Blenheim Township. The cellar door hosts and the rest of the staff are very accommodating, knowledgeable and professional.

Sauvignon Blanc Wine tasting from the tank
Sauvignon Blanc Wine tasting from the tank

Vineyard tours allow guests unique access to the winery and vineyard.

Cameron, before starting the Hop ‘N Grape Wine and Beer Tours business, had the privilege to work at Mount Riley Winery for about five years. When he left the winery he negotiated to take key with him so he could take visitors in and let them have an amazing behind the scene experience of the wine making process.

Marlborough’s cool climate and long growing season transform Mt. Riley’s wines to have vibrant and pure fruit flavours. The unique sites allow them to craft wines that best represent Marlborough region in each vintage.

History of Marlborough and Mount Riley

The first Sauvignon Blanc produced by Mount Riley was in 1996. Their wines have reached different parts of the world, from Scott Base in the Antarctic to 40,000ft in British Airways business class.

Taste the wine from the tank
Enjoy the vineyards and mountain view from on top of the wine tanks

The Winery tour visits the winery, vineyard and tasting room is often the unexpected highlight of guests on the Winery tour.

Guests love the wine and the informative behind the scenes experience that make Mount Riley stand out for them.

Guests meet the winemakers
Barrels of Pinot Noir are emptied and Hot washed.

Book now to see, learn and taste what makes this Marlborough Wine tour stand out from the crowd and be completely unique.

Book Now Page

Filed Under: Uncategorized, Wine tour Tagged With: Marlborough Wine Tours, Mount Riley Winery tour, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Vineyard Tour, Wine barrels, Wine tasting, Winery tour

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Here’s What Our Customers Are Saying…

"Hop 'n Grape Tours was absolutely perfectly suited to what we wanted out of our day. We had a "behind the scenes tour" of a phenomenal winery, a fantastic lunch, and an insider's look at the wine business. Plus, we got to sample some premium microbreweries. I would highly recommend Cam and his company to any person or group that is looking for a top notch customer service experience."
- Robb, Colorado, USA

***

"What sets this tour apart from the others is a winery visit where you learn how wine is made and the different soils that characterise the unique wines grown in the region. Cam is a great host and gives you just the right amount of information. The tour is well paced and highly recommended"
- Clare, NZ

***

"I am a very novice wine drinker, often fearful of ordering wine at meals... This tour helped change that for me entirely. The first portion of the tour took us behind the scenes at a vineyard. We were explained the regional wines produced, how the plants are planted and harvested and finally how the grapes are processed for wine production. A very good starting point for myself..."
- Chelle, UK

***

"My wife and I really enjoyed our tour with Cam on Hop 'n Grape tours! It was a very personalised experience for us. Getting to go to any winery that we wish and getting a great behind the scenes look at the Mount Riley winery was amazing. We would highly recommend hopping on board the tour... [for] a really knowledgeable and friendly guide. If you love wine, you'll love this tour!"
- Jayman, Australia
Hop 'N Grape Wine Tours Marlborough is the top provider of winery tours in Picton and Blenheim. If you are looking for a private wine tour, small group wine tour or a luxury wine tour, we can guide your through New Zealand's finest wine region - Marlborough - and let you indulge in an unforgettable wine tasting experience.

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