Home to 90% of New Zealand's sauvignon blanc plantings, the Marlborough region is known as the sauvignon blanc capital.
Find the best wineries, cellar doors and wine events in Marlborough.
The vibrancy of flavour and aroma that distinguishes Marlborough's grapes is the result of a unique combination of soils, crisp nights and sun-kissed days across the region's vine-filled valleys, producing wines of unmatched intensity and aroma.
With robust aromas and crisp flavours of gooseberry and capsicum, Marlborough sauvignon blanc has been a glittering success for New Zealand. The region has been producing wines since early pioneers recognised something special in the land and planted the first vineyards in the 1880's.
Rich reds and vibrant pinot noir are also favourites from the Marlborough region, along with fragrant chardonnay and crisp riesling.
A glass of Marlborough sauvignon blanc and fresh local seafood is a match made in heaven.
Marlborough is part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail(opens in new window), a self-guided route that spans 380km, taking in three wine regions, the capital city and more than 100 cellar doors.
Having already enjoyed the trail in Hawke's Bay, Wellington and Wairarapa, take an Interislander(opens in new window) or Bluebridge(opens in new window) ferry from Wellington to Picton to begin the Marlborough leg of the tour.
Marlborough’s 168 wineries, including well-known labels like Cloudy Bay, and small boutique family producers such as Hans Herzog Estate are not to be missed, but take your time and savour every moment on your road trip following the Classic Wine Trail grape signs along the way.
The region's vast flat areas are also ideal for a gentle gourmet cycle tour if you prefer to stretch your legs. From the small township of Renwick(opens in new window), there are 30 great wineries within a 24 kilometre circuit. Hire a bike or bring your own.
New Zealand's longest running food and wine event, the annual Marlborough Food and Wine Festival takes place on the second Saturday in February.
Showcasing the very best wines from over 30 local wineries, the event is the best way to indulge in Marlborough sauvignon blanc. As food trucks line up in Food Truck Alley, make your way through to sample gourmet street food creations from local cooks and established chefs. Talented musicians create the relaxing atmosphere the event is known for.
The vines may be bare, but in winter, cellar doors show off the rewards of their autumn harvest, offering visitors the first taste of their latest vintages. What’s more, many of Marlborough’s wineries provide plenty of other options for whiling away a wintry afternoon. At Wither Hills(opens in new window), you’ll discover the excitement of blending your own Pinot Noir. Open all year, Wairau River Winery(opens in new window) has one of the best-known restaurants in the region. And Framingham(opens in new window) is home to the Framingham Harvest Concert and Framingham Underground, a unique creative space. But if you’re all about the wine, most wineries have cosy spaces with roaring fires, where you can enjoy a glass of your favourite red while gazing out the window and contemplating the world.
