Welcome to Marlborough!
Along the New Zealand wine route, you’ll take a scenic ferry from Wellington to Picton. Congrats! You’re now on the southern island of NZ! Just a short drive away from the ferry terminal is a small town called Blenheim; this is a perfect launching pad for all the Marlborough has to offer (yes, more than just Sauvignon Blanc).
Before you go, see our New Zealand wine driving route guide as the ultimate resource.
Unlike Martinborough, we don’t recommend a bike tour, as the spacing between wineries are much larger and there are long stretches that involve riding alongside a highway — stick to a car and either hiring a driver or spitting during tastings.
Where to stay
Chateau Marlborough – great name and also great location in the town’s center. Plus, there’s a pool for those extra hot lazy days not spent on the vineyards. You’ll want to stay close to the downtown area, as there’s plenty of fun restaurants and bars to visit at the end of the day.
Wine tasting guide for Marlborough
- Fromm Winery: The Wine Scribes contends this is the best winery in Marlborough – absolutely incredible pinot in a region more known for whites. Their tasting program is very generous, allowing for tasters of library vintages and horizontal terroir comparisons. Call ahead and ask for David or Stephan and enjoy.
- Huia Vineyards Limited: Interesting organic and biodynamic wines. The owner Claire will lead you through an intimate tasting in a quaint hut on the vineyard property.
- Framingham: If there’s one thing we love (other than pinot), it’s a good aged Rieslings. This producer makes one of the best in the new world. Petrol notes for days!
- Hans Herzog: A little further off the beaten path but worth the trek. Organic producer from Switzerland with a cult-like following. If you’re able to, take the tour of the property. They also offer a dinner on site if you’re not in a rush to return to Blenheim.
- Scotch Wine Bar: The best wine bar in Marlborough and maybe all of New Zealand. Dan Gillett travels around the world to find unique, interesting bottles with a story and offers them up on a stellar by-the-glass menu (including half taster pours). The staff is on point too with their wine knowledge–sip and learn!
Where to eat
The Scotch Wine Bar deserves another shoutout here, as they have a continuously changing tapas-style menu. If tapas isn’t filling enough, try Gramado’s and enjoy a healthy cut of beef and, as one would expect of a restaurant in wine country, a lengthy wine list.
What else to do
Check out Havelock and Nelson for some great nature and trekking getaways. If time permits, Abel Tasman is one of the finest national parks in the world.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended. Most smaller producers (which we focus on) are not equipped with large customer-facing teams and tours. We don’t recommend tasting at places that have tour bus parking!
For a typical wine fan, we recommend at least 3 days / 2 nights in each region. You can stay longer of course and enjoy the beautiful sights, hiking or just relaxing.
Tough question — totally depends on your tastes! If you like the zippy Sauv Blanc that NZ is famous for, then hop right over to Marlborough. If you’re someone that likes juicy, jammy big Pinot Noir, head to the south island; Central Otago. On the other hand if you like lighter bodied Pinots and more austere regions, then Martinborough is your best bet. There’s something for everyone on these islands!
