New Zealand is famous for its award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. In fact, some wine critics claim it’s the world’s finest white wine. New Zealand wineries are some of the best worldwide!
Share this article
However, the country also produces other amazing wines, among various brands including Syrahs, Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs and Rieslings. In fact, the best New Zealand wine brands are so popular they rank among the country’s top ten exports.
New Zealand wineries range from small boutiques to large commercial farms. And, most wineries focus on biodynamic and sustainable farming methods. In fact, the country is one of the most sought-after travel destinations for wine tourism. Because of its viticulture and the great wines produced by the best wineries.
Visit any of the following 4 wine estates that rank among the best New Zealand Wineries. To explore the country’s wine regions and enjoy some of the best New Zealand wines.
New Zealand Wineries: 2017
Rippon Vineyard
The family-owned winery is on Lake Wanaka’s shores in Central Otago. An area considered the southernmost wine-growing region in the world. In 1975, the estate planted the first wine grapes in the vineyard and in 1989 the winery released its first commercial vintage.
Rippon vineyard depends on a holistic view of wine agriculture. So, it practices biodynamic farming and they do not irrigate the soil. Thus, the vines grown are true to the terroir and they produce outstanding Pinot Noir and dry Riesling wines.
To taste great wines in a spectacular location, visit Rippon Vineyard. You can access the winery by road or by walking along the shore from Wanaka. Most people prefer to walk as they get to enjoy the breathtaking sights of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
The estate does not charge for wine tasting. But, you are free to donate towards the “pot of love”. The contributions collected go towards the winery’s ongoing Habitat Restoration project. Furthermore, guests are welcome to visit the winery any time during the opening hours. However, if you are in a group of more than 6 people, call ahead to ensure the staff can accommodate you for a tasting.
Check out the best New Zealand Wines of 2018!
New Zealand wineries are famous for their viticulture and the award-winning wines they produce.
Neudorf Vineyards
The beautiful vineyard is in Nelson, New Zealand’s smallest wine region in the South Island. The estate began in 1978 and has been consistent in producing high quality and unique wines since then. In fact, Neudorf Vineyards export their wine to over 16 countries worldwide.
Neudorf estate grows healthy and robust vines which produce some of the best New Zealand wines. Due to the organic and sustainable farming methods practiced at the vineyard. Wine brands from the estate include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Gris.
Set among the rolling hills, this picturesque winery is a must visit when in Nelson. The winery has beautiful gardens where you can have a picnic and enjoy some of the best New Zealand wine brands. In fact, the winery sells wine, cheese, and crackers to ensure you have an excellent wine tasting experience. And, wine tasting visit is free, but you can donate towards the Air Ambulance Service.
Mission Estate
Set up in 1851, Mission Estate is the oldest winery in New Zealand. And, it is the largest independent winery in Hawke’s Bay. Hawke’s Bay is the second largest wine-growing region in the country. To produce great wine, the winery combines the traditional craft of winemaking with the latest technology. In fact, the winery has won many international wine awards and earned a place among the best New Zealand wineries.
Wine tasting at the mission estate takes place in a cellar which is a beautiful, renovated seminary building. And, as you taste the wine, you can learn more about the estate. From the old photographs hung in the cellar, which explain the winery’s history. It costs 5 dollars, to taste the estate’s fine wine and receive a gorgeous embossed wine glass to take home. Also, the estate has a restaurant that opens daily and serves contemporary cuisine for lunch and dinner.
The Stonyridge Vineyard
The winery is on Waiheke Island also known as the “Island of Wine” in the North Island of New Zealand. Established in the 1980’s, Stonyridge is famous for the classy Bordeaux style red wine it produces, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec. In fact, the Stonyridge Larose is one of the best New Zealand wines sold in some of the world’s best restaurants.
Stonyridge is a gorgeous vineyard with breathtaking scenery. For 28 dollars you get to taste a variety of the wine and enjoy the sumptuous food in the restaurant.
New Zealand wineries are famous for their viticulture and the award-winning wines they produce. As a result of producing the best New Zealand wine brands, the country has seen an increase in wine tourism and wine exports.