Settled only relatively recently by Europeans, this coastal region has a strong maritime climate with warm temperatures.
New Zealand’s Wairarapa region is relatively isolated, and it shows. Only recently settled by Europeans, the South Pacific coastal region benefits from a strong maritime climate that provides warm temperatures ideal for viticulture. The area is known for its Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay wines — particularly those produced in two of the region’s appellations, Martinborough and Gladstone. That said, the success of viticulture in the area has been a recent phenomenon; in fact, the first winery wasn’t established there until 1979.
The Wairarapa is known for its Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay wines, but also produces excellent Syrah, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Wairarapa is a grape-growing region on New Zealand’s North Island. The name translates to “glistening waters,” and the vineyards benefit from cool climate growing conditions. Vineyards in the Wairarapa are often compared to Burgundy wines, and they also share some similarities with neighboring Marlborough in that they produce lively Sauvignon Blanc.
The Wairarapa is known for its Pinot Noir, but also produces excellent Syrah, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Two of the appellations — Martinborough and Gladstone — are mountainous.
Two of the appellations — Martinborough and Gladstone — are mountainous. The former is in the southern Wairarapa and is a small, sheltered basin surrounded by hills. It has the perfect conditions for Pinot Noir, with warm days and cool nights thanks to breezes blowing off Cook Strait. The latter is in the northern Wairarapa where you can see a more dramatic landscape, with steeper hills and valleys. Cabernet Merlot does well here thanks to the warmer temperatures.
The first winery was established in 1979.
The first winery was established in 1979 when Martinborough Vineyard planted its first vines. Known for their Pinot Noir, the first vintage was released in 1980. At the time, there were only about 10 wineries in the region. Today there are roughly 30, with a number of vineyards that are open to visitors.
Wineries in Wairarapa include Ata Rangi, Schubert Wines, Martinborough Vineyard and Palliser Estate.
When visiting Wairarapa, make sure to stop by Ata Rangi. This winery is a must-see—with its beautiful courtyard and glass ceiling, you will enjoy your wine tasting experience in the sunshine. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Martinborough town center, Ata Rangi is the place for you.
You can also visit Schubert Wines. With their petanque courts, olive trees and red-brick walls, this winery is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. They also have their own restaurant with a menu that changes daily!
If you are looking for a more cosmopolitan atmosphere, check out Martinborough Vineyard or Palliser Estate. Both of these wineries are in the center of downtown Martinborough.
The Wairarapa is a beautiful region with lovely Pinots and great restaurants.
As one of the top wine growing regions in New Zealand, Wairarapa is best known for its excellent restaurants and great Pinot Noir. Recommended wineries to visit include:
- Ata Rangi
- Craggy Range
- Martinborough Vineyard
These options will give you a good sense of what is being done with Pinot Noir. If you are interested in trying other varietals from the region, be sure to also visit:
- Gladstone Vineyard & Winery where you can sample their sav blanc and chardonnay
- Coney Wines where they make some excellent riesling and pinot gris