Budburst, bottles & beauty
- Written by
- Harri Sharman
Raise a glass in some of the Bay’s finest vineyards
Springtime in a vineyard: the vines awakening from a winter slumber, new greenery appearing, and buds and flowers beginning to burst to life. A winery tour in spring is a must-do for wine lovers – the weather is (hopefully) improving, the fragrance of new growth is in the air and it’s usually quieter than visiting during the summer peak.
Here in the North Island, we are lucky to be close to some world-class vineyards in New Zealand’s oldest wine-producing region, Hawke’s Bay. Renowned for its sunny weather, amazing scenery and top-notch vineyards, a springtime pilgrimage to the vines will always go down a treat. Here are some beautiful cellar doors to visit this season.
Tony Bish Wines
Chardonnay fans will love a visit to The Urban Winery, home of Tony Bish Wines. Tony Bish is dedicated to making only chardonnay, and he does it exceptionally well. Taste for yourself at The Urban Winery’s funky cellar door, located in the old National Tobacco Company Building in Napier. On offer is an excellent selection of Tony Bish and unique Hawke’s Bay wines available by the glass or bottle, plus craft beer on tap. Expect vinyl records and live music every weekend while you enjoy some highly rated, innovative chardonnays.
Decibel Wines
This Hastings newcomer is a must-visit for those who love variety in their vino. Decibel winemaker Daniel produces over 17 different wines, including the three different malbecs, pinot noir, chenin blanc, and viognier available in the shop. Their range includes the bright, fruit-forward Giunta wines, the flagship Decibel range, and the powerful, good-for-ageing Testify selection. In their new home on Warren St, sample their wines at complimentary tasting sessions between Wednesday and Saturday (bookings recommended). You can also pick up their beautifully labelled bottles from the shop.
Bottle sales open 11am – 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
Trinity Hill
In the heart of the famed Gimblett Gravels growing region sits the beautiful Trinity Hill cellar door. Recently celebrating 25 years of winemaking, Trinity Hill offers a variety of tasting experiences to choose from or enjoy wines by the glass or bottle. A selection of tasting platters featuring local Hawke’s Bay produce makes a delicious accompaniment. The cellar door itself is an impressive space, as it was once an old barrel hall – the perfect spot to sample some of their award-winning chardonnays.
Cellar Door open 11am – 5pm, seven days a week.
A: 3 Ossian St, Ahuriri, Napier 4110
P: 06 650 3353
E: manager@theurbanwinery.co.nz
