Wine Tours

Marlborough is New Zealand’s most famous wine region, and a wine tour here is the quintessential way to experience its world-class Sauvignon Blanc. With over 140 wineries scattered across the sun-drenched Wairau and Awatere Valleys, the region offers a sensory feast of crisp whites, bold reds, and stunning vineyard vistas. Whether you join a guided tour or self-drive (with a designated driver, of course), you’ll find cellar doors that range from boutique family operations to iconic labels like Cloudy Bay and Brancott Estate. The best part? The winemakers are genuinely passionate, often pouring tastings and sharing stories that bring each glass to life.

Highlights & What to See

• Cloudy Bay Vineyards – The iconic producer that put Marlborough on the map; its tasting room offers a sleek, modern experience with a view over the vines.
• Brancott Estate Heritage Centre – Perched on a hilltop with panoramic valley views, this is the region’s original winery and a great spot to learn about Marlborough’s wine history.
• Wairau Valley Wine Trail – The main artery of wine country, lined with dozens of cellar doors; pick up a map and hop between stops like Fromm, Spy Valley, and Saint Clair.
• Awatere Valley Wine Trail – A more remote, ruggedly beautiful sub-region known for its intense, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc; lesser-crowded and well worth the drive.
• Bike & Wine Tours – Pedal between vineyards on a guided cycle tour; a fun, active way to taste without worrying about driving.
• Gourmet Food Pairings – Many wineries offer platters or restaurant dining; look for seasonal menus that pair local greens, seafood, and lamb with the wines.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to properly explore the wine region – half a day feels rushed. If you’re joining a guided tour, they typically run 4–6 hours and visit 4–6 wineries. For self-drivers, start mid-morning and pace yourself: aim for 3–4 cellar doors before lunch, then 2–3 more in the afternoon. A two-day itinerary allows you to tackle both the Wairau and Awatere Valleys, with time for a relaxed lunch at a vineyard restaurant. Many visitors combine a wine tour with a stay in Blenheim or a trip to the Marlborough Sounds.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Blenheim – The region’s main town, with a charming historic core, the Marlborough Museum, and easy access to the wine trails.
• Marlborough Sounds – A stunning network of drowned valleys perfect for kayaking, hiking the Queen Charlotte Track, or taking a scenic cruise.
• Picton – The gateway to the South Island’s ferry connections, with a lovely waterfront, the Edwin Fox maritime museum, and departure point for Sounds adventures.

Please check official sources for current details.