Wine and Dine in Christchurch

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by Hertz NZ - 26 July 2017

Christchurch and Canterbury have been producing aromatic cool climate wines since the 70s and have a huge number of wineries to explore, leavingfoodies and tipplers spoiled for choice. TheWaipara Valleyregion has become aworld renowned wine destination and being drive out of Christchurch makes this an accessible and easy day trip option.

Here are some of our favourites from the wide range of options on offer.

Torlesse Wines

The picturesque setting and distinctive red-brown buildings of this winery will have you pulling out your camera as soon as you see it – but there’s more to this winery than just a pretty face. Don’t miss a taste of their multi award winning Torlesse Gewurztraminer – a specialty white wine style only made by this vineyard, offering a truly unique experience. If you are a dessert wine fan their Late Harvest: Sticky Riesling and their Reserve Port are not to be missed. Their cellar door also has a range of arts and crafts from local artisans on offer too.

Waipara Hills

With their wines being awarded more than 500 medals, you know you’re in for a treat when you sample the aromatic offerings of this well-established winery. Their landscaped gardens are perfect for an al fresco dining experience – pick up everything you’ll need for a delicious picnic at their cellar door and take in the views.

Pegasus Bay Winery and Restaurant

Priding themselves on quality not quantity this winery specialises in small batches of wineow yield crops of optimally ripened grapes are carefully selected for their outstanding range of wines. Their focus on sustainability, permaculture and organic wine is sure to please. With a wide range of events, including foraging trips to showcase local foodmakers, its well worth spending some extra time to take part in a class or workshop while you’re here.

Waipara Wine and Food Festival

If you’re lucky enough to be travelling in March, the Waipara Wine and Food Celebration is a must see. Held in the historic Glennmark Church grounds in North Canterbury, it offers a once-a-year opportunity for smaller winemakers to offer their wares to the public. A relaxed, family-focused affair, there’s local music, food producers and of course winemakers all in one place.

With so many options on offer, there are plenty of discoveries to be made in