If there’s one thing we love, it’s wine. It’s pretty much our answer to good days, bad days and every day in between. And, lucky for us here in the City of Sails there’s no shortage of venues to indulge our obsession. Sometimes, though, you want to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and this is where wine tasting comes in!
Try a little bit of this wine and a little bit of that wine and set those taste buds alight at one of these top wine tasting venues in and around Auckland.
The Wine Caves
Newmarket
Well, hello vino! A new comer on the scene, The Wine Cave is a destination like none other. Home to a whopping 435 wines, 60 spirits AND craft beer, chances are it could become your new home. Better yet, each week the Sommelier team select 16 wines for customers to taste—and it starts from just $10 per person. Pop in or book your next group event here…we say cheers to that!
Villa Maria
Mangere
If you’re going to head to one vineyard this summer, make it Villa Maria. Not only are they New Zealand’s most awarded winery, their wine selection is to die for and their concert line-up is insane, guys! We’re talking Jack Johnson, The National, Six60 and Fat Freddy’s Drop—the absolute perfect summery selection to vibe out to with a fabulous glass of vino in hand!
Cable Bay
Waiheke
There’s nothing quite like taking a ferry over to Waiheke, New Zealand’s ‘Island of Wine,’ for a day of good food, stunning views and even better wine. We recommend staying for a long lunch at Cable Bay, featuring food from their gorgeous organic garden after you’ve tasted the morning away with their stunning selection of world class wines.
Tantalus
Waiheke
Another venue sitting pretty in the heart of Waiheke’s wine country is Tantalus—a dream come true for those who love a glass or two of red. Not only is their selection second to none, the architecture of this place is an absolute must-see. This is the perfect spot for your stylish private events this summer or pop over for a wine tasting you won’t forget.
Man’O’War
Waiheke
Will we ever leave Waiheke? Head on over to this idyllic spot for a family friendly day of wine, food and lush scenery that might just take your breath away. There are plenty of activities including lawn cricket, petanque and swing ball to keep the little ones busy while the adults relax in the sunshine with a glass (or five) of your fave wine.
Brick Bay
Matakana
This serene spot is just an hour north of the bustling city of Auckland and is definitely a road trip worth taking. If you are a fan of Pinot Gris make sure to get to Brick Bay pronto—we promise you will not be disappointed with their stunning selection of stand-out wines. Don’t forget to take a stroll through their ever-changing sculpture trail, complete with pieces by the most talented of Kiwi artists.
Soljans Estate Winery
Kumeu
In the heart of Kumeu, you’ll find Soljans Estate Winery. This stunning venue boasts a longggg history and they off wine tastings and tours for those who book. While you’re sipping away on their delicious wines, learn all about the wonderful world of wine making. If you’re feeling as though you need a little extra (and who doesn’t?) order one of their cheese platters and indulge.
Ascension Wine Estate
Matakana
Make a beeline to Matakana to the fabulousness that is Ascension Wine Estate. Known for their rocking events, they also have three options when it comes to their wine tasting tours. Opt for the standard tasting and tour or up the ante and go premium with a tour of the vines before moving into the winery. And, you can even step it up one more time and so for the super premium tour!
Point Wines
Northcote Point
Point Wines host monthly wine (and beer!) tastings, showcasing the best of local and international wines, with canapés to match. If you are interested in the educational side of wine tastings just as much as the ah, actual tasting side, this one’s for you!
Foxes Island Cellar Door
Grey Lynn
With Foxes Island you can experience all of the offerings of a cellar door without even leaving the city! Here you can enjoy wine tastings Tuesday through to Saturday in their cosy tasting room. They even have a wine club, giving you access to member privileges including special offers and discounts, ummm....sign us up!
The Wine Crew
Exhibition Art Gallery, Newmarket
The Wine Crew offer educational, fun and most importantly delicious wine tastings for lovers of wine. Broaden your wine horizons with their corporate or private wine tasting events in either your office or New Market’s Exhibition Art Gallery, where you will be treated to some fabulous artwork as well as stunning, world-class wine—yes please!
Image Credit: Ascension Wine Estate