Canterbury wine is among the best in NZ
If you enjoy wine and happen to be in Canterbury New Zealand, you've discovered a match made in heaven.
Though not the largest wine growing region in New Zealand, Canterbury's city of Christchurch now represents the country as its official wine capital in the exclusive Great Wine Capitals Global Network. This honour is shared by only a handful of other regions in the world, including Napa Valley in the US and Bordeaux in France.
When you arrive you'll see the region's distinctive sprawling plains and golden hills - a perfect environment for growing grapes. The stony land from old river courses, crisp winter frosts, and hot summer winds give Canterbury the right conditions to forge a reputation for quality wines and wineries.
Canterbury's wines are known for their intense, concentrated flavours - particularly the Sauvignon Blanc, Reisling and Pinot Noir. Fine Merlot, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and other varieties are also produced here.
This region is dotted with wineries that will welcome you for wine tasting, wine tours and exceptional regional cuisine. All Canterbury's main wineries, including those in the famous region of Waipara, are within reach of an easy day trip from the city of Christchurch. Some are less than a half hour's drive from the central city, making a winery visit easy even on shorter trips to Canterbury.
Make sure you visit Canterbury and enjoy this beautiful region's tradition of award-winning wines.
Wineries Close to Christchurch City
Tucked into the base of the Port Hills is a country winery setting close to the heart of Christchurch. At Rossendale Country Restaurant and Winery you can taste award-winning Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer while enjoying lunch or dinner. Wines from Rossendale are medal winners from competitions such as the Air New Zealand Wine Awards, the International Chardonnay Competition and the Liquorland Top 100. The restaurant has also won awards, including the New Zealand Beef and Lamb Hallmark of Excellence.The photo here shows Rossendale Winery on the Old Tai Tapu Road, near Christchurch.
A short drive past Rossendale onto Banks Peninsula takes you to the Kaituna Valley Vineyard on Banks Peninsula. This is also an award winning winery, having taken home a range of national and international awards including the Air New Zealand Wine Awards, and also the Sydney International Wine Competition with its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Don't miss a visit to Kaituna Valley Vineyard - be sure to make an appointment.
The photo below shows beautiful Autumnal vines in Kaituna Valley, near Christchurch.
Winery Day Trips in Waipara, Canterbury
Once you've explored the vineyards closest to Christchurch, there are many more to be enjoyed just a little further afield. A day trip in Canterbury can introduce you to many prestigious wineries. An especially popular destination for wine lovers is Waipara, just north of Christchurch.The land around Waipara boasts vineyards such as Fiddler's Green, Muddy Water Wines, Floating Mountain, Mount Cass, Daniel Schuster Wines, Glenmark Wines, Sherwood Estate Wines, Waipara Hills. Some vineyards, such as Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant, provide excellent food as well as beautiful wine.
Wines from this part of Canterbury are both national and international award winners. Awards and trophies have been won from various competitions, including the International Wine & Spirit Competition, the Romeo Bragato Wine Awards, the San Francisco International Wine Competition and the New Zealand International Wine Show.
The tradition of fine food and wine here makes this area a perfect venue for the ever popular Waipara Wine And Food Celebration. Visit the Waipara Valley Winegrowers website to find out more. You may want to plan your visit to Canterbury around this event!
See Muddy Water Vineyard
See Pegasus Bay Winery
See Daniel Schuster Winery
Canterbury Winery Websites
- Rossendale Restaurant and Winery
- Visit the website of Rossendale Restaurant, Winery, Homestead and Gardens in Christchurch, New Zealand
- Muddy Water Vineyard
- Visit the website of Muddy Water Vineyard in Waipara, Canterbury, New Zealand
- Sherwood Estate - a family-owned and operated winery in Waipara, North Canterbury, New Zealand
- Sherwood Estate - a family-owned and operated winery in Waipara, North Canterbury, New Zealand. We are privileged to be able to present to you our product that is at least the equal of the best wines available throughout the world.
- Fiddler's Green Wines
- New Zealand producer of fine wines, situated in Waipara, North Canterbury
- Welcome to Pegasus Bay | Pegasus Bay - Fine Waipara Wine
- Family-owned and operated winery and restaurant in Waipara, North Canterbury, New Zealand. Our aim is to grow grapes of the highest quality which fully express the features of the vineyard, and to handle these with the utmost respect
- Waipara Hills
- Visit the Waipara Hills website.
- Mount Cass Wines
- Visit the Mount Cass Wines website.
Learn More About New Zealand Wine
Check out this lens to learn more about wine in New Zealand-
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If you're visiting Canterbury make sure you have the right vehicle to help you explore the region.-
Car Rental New Zealand - hire cars with ABC Car Rental
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What Are Your Favourite Canterbury Wines and Wineries?
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Reply
- isabella isabella May 12, 2009 @ 12:39 am
- Why don't you add this lens to the Best Islands group? It can be hosted in the New Zealand section too!
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