New Zealand’s wine country is a summer dreamscape – rolling vineyards, crisp whites, full-bodied reds and cellar doors brimming with charm. To help you plan the perfect winery wander this season, we turn to Douglas Renall, a renowned wine expert and author of 100 Great New Zealand Wineries.
Douglas grew up immersed in the vineyards and farmlands of West Auckland, where his early days at Pleasant Valley Wines and family orchards sparked a lifelong passion for viticulture. With degrees in Viticulture and Oenology and experience at esteemed wineries both here and abroad – including a Grand Cru château in Bordeaux – Douglas has become a connoisseur of New Zealand’s diverse and dynamic wine scene.
His book, 100 Great New Zealand Wineries, is the ultimate guide for wine lovers, offering in-depth insights into the country’s most remarkable vineyards. It’s more than just a directory; it’s a journey through history, innovation and the people behind the wines we love. From the vine to the cellar, Douglas captures the beauty and character of each region, complete with stunning photography.
In celebrating sustainable choices, we’re also delving into the art of biodynamic winemaking. Inspired by the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, biodynamics employs holistic farming practices that treat the vineyard as a living ecosystem, emphasising organic methods, biodiversity and celestial cycles to craft wines that embody the true essence of their terroir.
Let’s explore three of Douglas’s standout picks to add to your summer itinerary, showcasing wineries that combine stunning scenery, award-winning wines and unforgettable experiences.
Seresin Estate
“Seresin Estate is a special vineyard,” says Douglas. “It hums with life. Birds sing, bees buzz and animals graze among the vines, olive groves, orchards and around the native bush.”
Seresin Estate was founded by renowned cinematographer Michael Seresin, who transitioned from his successful film career to pursue organic and biodynamic winemaking. Located in Marlborough, the estate focuses on sustainable viticulture and producing premium wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.
Seresin’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in their use of biodynamic practices and their goal of creating wines that not only capture the essence of the land but also support biodiversity and sustainability. The handprint on Seresin’s label is the sigil of the estate, symbolising the estate’s philosophy of working with nature rather than against it.
Summer is a great time for a sav, and the Seresin Sauvignon Blanc is one to try. Douglas notes “The wine is produced in a full-bodied, rich style, allowing for plenty of ripe-fruit characters such as melon, apricot and orange zest. You’ll find details of melon, vanilla and candied ginger on the palate, leading to an elegant long finish.”
Felton Road
Whether you’re strolling through Felton Road’s lush vines or tasting their award-winning wines, it’s the perfect spot to visit this summer. Located in the heart of Central Otago’s Bannockburn, Felton Road is a hidden gem.
The story begins in 1991 when Stewart Elms identified the north-facing slopes at the end of Felton Road as an ideal site for premium wine production. The area’s perfect blend of free-draining soils and unique climate set the stage for growing top-quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling.
If the Chardonnay is calling your name on these warmer days, Douglas notes that the Bannockburn Chardonnay is breathtaking and often flies under the radar. “The wine is like a slick Italian sports car with fine edges, well-proportioned oak, vibrant peach and nectarine characters, offset by an opulent, creamy palate.”
From hand-picking grapes to carefully thinning and positioning vines, every step is done with the utmost attention to detail to ensure the best fruit. The vineyards have been farmed organically and biodynamically since 2002, with Demeter certification since 2010 and BioGro certification in 2020, reflecting their commitment to sustainability and quality.
Millton
Millton Vineyard’s three individual Gisborne vineyards – Opou, Te Arai, and Clos de Ste – offer a lovely summer visit, perfect for strolling through the lush countryside and vines.
The Millton Vineyard, established in 1984 by James and Annie Millton near Manutuke in Gisborne, sits in one of New Zealand’s earliest grape-growing regions. Building on Annie’s family vineyard legacy and their international winemaking experience in France and Germany, the Milltons replanted and revitalised their family’s grape business before founding the vineyard.
Known for producing high-quality wines from the start, The Millton Vineyard quickly gained recognition, winning national and international awards for their Riesling, Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay. Today, Millton’s wines are celebrated globally, appearing in fine dining establishments and winning numerous accolades.
Douglas notes that Millton, the pioneer of biodynamic winemaking in New Zealand, was the first producer to acquire Bio-Gro certification back in 1989 and gained Demeter international biodynamic certification in 2009 after having used traditional biodynamic methods for decades.
After more?
New Zealand is bursting with great wineries just waiting to be discovered. Thankfully Douglas has done the hard yards and wrapped them all up in one big to-do list!
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply seeking summer destinations, 100 Great New Zealand Wineries is a must-have, stunning addition for the coffee table – and the perfect gift for someone special. You can find it here.
Stay tuned for more monthly wine recommendations and updates!
