Wineries Where You Wouldn’t Expect Them
We all know the North Canterbury wine trail is the place to sample New Zealand’s finest vintages. It’s one of the country’s fastest growing wine regions – more than 90 vineyards jostle for position among North Canterbury’s unique land formations and growing climates.
But true wine connoisseurs know that some of the best wineries can be hidden in plain sight. Venture off the beaten track and explore The Central South Island’s cellar doors where you’d least expect them, all within a stone's throw from Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Credit: Neat Places
Tussock Hill Vineyard & Cellar Door, Christchurch
Who knew that the rocky slopes of the Port Hills would be the perfect spot for a winery? Tussock Hill certainly did, and it’s paid off. The 10-acre vineyard boasts expansive views overlooking Ōtautahi Christchurch, with a cellar door restaurant showcasing their organic wines and local produce. Pop in for lunch and sip on a premium Pinot Noir, crafted with hand-picked grapes from a 20-year-old vine.
Cross Hares Vineyard, Selwyn
Little did you know that the gateway to Banks Peninsula is home to an award-winning cellar door. Shrouded by trees and farmland, Cross Hares Vineyard can be hard to see at first, but if you look closely, you’ll see the boutique winery tucked away from the main road towards Akaroa. Named after the hares that run wild between the vines, Cross Hares is best known for their fruity, silky-smooth vintages.
Straight 8 Estate, Selwyn
Don’t blink too fast, or you might miss this award-winning vineyard while travelling along State Highway 1. Named after their 1935 Railton Light Sports vintage car that lives on site, Straight 8 Estate is where you’ll discover "seriously drinkable wine." After Georgie the vineyard dog gives you a welcoming sniff, relax amongst the vines as you taste-test your way through Straight 8’s range of Rieslings, rosés, pinot noirs and chardonnays.
Melton Estate, Selwyn
Nestled in the heart of West Melton’s green pastures, Melton Estate is the whole package, complete with a boutique winery, restaurant and events venue. Pick between 9 different wine varieties to sample as you walk among the vines with the owners! Or sit down for a locally sourced Winery Lunch that pairs perfectly with the grapes that grow around you.
Takamatua Valley Vineyards
High above the hills overlooking Akaroa Harbour you’ll find Takamatua Valley Vineyards, who claim to have produced the first Pinot Gris in New Zealand. Wine tasting by appointment and an off-licence if you’re staying in a B&B nearby will have you sorted for your Banks Peninsula holiday.
