Margrain Vineyard at 5 Huangarua Road is also the home of The Vineyard Café – possibly a welcome stop on your journey around the vineyards! It’s set amongst the vineyards and is a complement to the Cellar Door which is also open 7 days a week – check the website for current opening hours – www.margrainvineyard.co.nz. Developed since 1992 by the Margrain family and including the original Chifney vineyard and buildings, it’s a complete package venue – as they also offer accommodation (think vineyard villas..yes) and winery tours.
Margrain features one of those rare breed of Cellar Door Manager whose knowledge and personality just absolutely makes the experience for a visitor.. your host is likely to be the rather fabulous Kate, and the tasting here is a generous seven wines! I can recommend the ‘old vine’ Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay. Neither hold back on flavour, character or plushness. Distinctly old school.
However, perhaps a stand-out on the day that I visited was a wine varietal that doesn’t always grab me – their Gruner Veltliner. They also have three labels of Pinot – take your pick., but for me the Home Block Pinot edges out the Reserve.