Visit for the wines, linger for the scenery
Hawke’s Bay wine region is known for full-bodied reds and complex Chardonnays
For many wine enthusiasts, Sauvignon Blanc and the Marlborough wine region immediately come to mind when you talk about a visit to New Zealand.
For those who are really in the know, a full exploration of the country’s wines demands a visit to Hawke’s Bay. There are more than 100 vineyards and 80 wineries in the area.
It is actually the country’s oldest wine region, the second-largest and New Zealand’s leading producer of full-bodied red wines.
Also to my delight, it produces some delicious and complex Chardonnays, which I found perfect for those sunny afternoons on the patios of these stunning wineries.
U.S.A. -born Australian business- man Terry Peabody had made a commitment to his family to build a family wine business: one that would endure for generations to come. He started his search in France and the U.S., then went to Australia, but it was a visit to Gimblett Gravels in the Hawke’s Bay region that changed everything. By 1997, Craggy Range was born. It hasn’t taken long for the critics to take notice, with Wine Enthusiast Magazine naming it the 2014 New World Winery of the Year.
A visit to Craggy Range would not be complete without dining on the patio of the winery’s Terroir Restaurant. Situated at the base of the Te Mata Peak escarpment, the views are breathtaking.
Although the winery is noted for its Prestige Collection (including Sophia, a Merlot-dominated blend), I opted for the Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay, which was paired wonderfully with pan-fried quail. Sophia is available at some LCBO stores.
Another highlight of the Hawke’s Bay wine region is Black Barn Vineyard, a boutique winery near Havelock North village.
Along with producing award-wining Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs, the winery’s Bistro is a hidden oasis, surrounded by vines in the heart of the vineyard. Plan a long, leisurely lunch because it’s hard to leave the tranquil setting, mouth-wa- tering menu and world-class wines.
The winery also features an art gallery, amphitheatre and, if you want to stay a little longer, the Black Barn Retreats. The self-contained units look out over the vines to the mountains and the ocean.
If you want to really explore the area, Takaro Trails provides cycling tours for all levels of ability.
The cycling excursion was a great way to get some exercise and wear off my meal while seeing some of the beautiful landscape. However, next time I might pass on that second glass of wine until after the ride.
Hawke’s Bay is definitely a food and wine lover’s paradise that offers many outdoor activities, luxury accommodations and perfect weather. For more information, visit hawkesbaynz.com Sherri Haigh is a freelance writer based in Toronto. Follow Sherri @fishingal30 or email her at sherrihaigh2@gmail.com. Meals and tours supported by Craggy Range Winery, Black Barn Vineyard and Hawke’s Bay Tourism.