Escape to New Zealand’s sauvignon blanc capital, a vibrant winemaking region celebrated for more than just its iconic drop.

Marlborough gained international acclaim for its exceptional sauvignon blanc, but it’s becoming known for its diverse range of wines, capturing attention for its pinot noir, chardonnay, and aromatic wines. With two-thirds of the country’s winemakers calling Marlborough home, the region offers more than 150 wineries and 30 cellar doors to explore.

Must-visit cellar doors

Marlborough
Cloudy Bay, Marlborough

Marlborough has three distinct subregions, each with unique soils and climates that are expressed in their wines. The Wairau Valley is characterised by a dry climate and gravelly soils, lending the fruit intensity and body. Here you’ll find renowned vineyards like Cloudy Bay, Framingham Wines(opens in new window), and Clos Henri. These vineyards are notable not only for their exceptional wines but also for their memorable cellar door experiences.

The Southern Valleys subregion produces a greater range of wines, but they are particularly good for pinot noir and aromatic wines. While there are many highly regarded wineries here, Spy Valley Wines(opens in new window) and Saint Clair Estate(opens in new window) are a couple of the standouts. Despite its name, Spy Valley Wines is not good at keeping secrets. It has garnered international attention, earning a spot among the world’s top twenty new producers. Visit their cellar door to sample their award-winning range and meet of the world’s most friendly vintners. The Saint Clair Estate is a family-run winery that’s picked up a host of international wine awards over the years and produced some New Zealand’s most decorated sauvignon blanc. But don’t let this intimidate you; their cellar door couldn’t be more inviting.

The Awatere Valley is cool, dry, and windy, yielding aromatic pinot noir and distinctive sauvignons. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Yealands Estate. You’ll not only sample award-winning wines but see this sprawling zero-carbon winery in action.

Explore Cellar Doors

Classic New Zealand Wine Trail

Marlborough
Yealands Wines, Marlborough

The Classic New Zealand Wine Trail is a self-guided touring route that takes you through some of New Zealand's most renowned wine regions. Spanning 380 kilometres, the trail connects three major wine-producing regions: Hawke's Bay, Wairarapa, and Marlborough, with a stop in the capital city, Wellington. The Marlborough portion of the trail includes thirty cellar door and tasting experiences. 

Discover the trail

Marlborough Food and Wine Festival

Marlborough
Marlborough Food & Wine Festival, Marlborough

The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival celebrates the finest wines and cuisine Marlborough region has to offer. The annual event takes place on the second Saturday of February.

Explore the festival

Explore Marlborough

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