In Aotearoa New Zealand, the vintage season rolls around each year with the start of Autumn, kicking off in March and running through to May. It’s a time of buzz and energy in the vineyards, as grapes are carefully picked at their peak ripeness. Winemakers say this timing is key, as it’s all about capturing the best flavours from the fruit.
The 2025 vintage is shaping up to be a real standout. Across New Zealand’s world-renowned wine regions, from Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blanc-filled valleys to Central Otago’s cool-climate Pinot Noir slopes, the harvest has been a blend of sunny days and cool, crisp nights.
Known for its world-class wines, the Hawke’s Bay comes to life between March and April, when grapes are picked at peak ripeness to bottle the very best of the season.
The warm days and cool nights create the perfect conditions for bold Merlots, silky Cabernets and vibrant, tropical Chardonnays.
Adding even more buzz to the season is the Harvest Hawke's Bay Festival! Held along the riverside, the vibrant event celebrates the region’s food, wine and culture in style. Wineries, award-winning Chefs and live entertainment come together for a great day out.
In this two-part article, here are some of New Zealand’s best wineries in the North Island to sip and savour during the 2025 wine vintage season:
Waiheke Island:
Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant: this winery is comprised of an enchanting experience with its award-winning wines, fine dining options and breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf. Known for its romantic ambience and sustainable practices, Mudbrick provides a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty, making it a sought-after destination for wine enthusiasts and special occasions.
Man O’ War Vineyards: this vineyard provides a captivating experience with its stunning coastal scenery, award-winning wines and beachfront tasting room. Renowned for its Syrah, Chardonnay and Bordeaux blends, this family-owned estate combines rich history, sustainable practices and warm hospitality to create an unforgettable destination for wine enthusiasts.
Tantalus Estate: Tantalus delivers an exceptional experience with its award-winning wines, innovative craft beers and exquisite dining options. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and native wetlands, this stunning estate combines sustainable practices with a luxurious ambiance, making it a premier destination for culinary and wine enthusiasts alike.
Tairawhiti Gisborne:
Matawhero Winery: expect a unique experience with its rustic cellar door, where visitors can enjoy premium wine tastings, gourmet platters and explore an underground cellar housing vintage wines. Nestled among vines and olive trees, this historic winery combines heritage charm with modern luxury, including on-site accommodation for an immersive vineyard stay.
Wrights Vineyard and Winery: this is a distinctive experience with organic and biodynamic wines, crafted to showcase the terroir and vintage of the region. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings at the family-friendly cellar door, which features gourmet picnic options and a welcoming atmosphere amidst the vineyard's sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.
Bushmere Estate: with a refined experience, picturesque vineyard setting and The Vines Restaurant & Café, guests can enjoy locally inspired cuisine paired with estate-grown wines. With its focus on fresh, seasonal produce and a welcoming atmosphere, Bushmere Estate provides a perfect blend of culinary excellence and scenic charm for visitors.
Te Matau-a-Maui Hawke’s Bay:
Craggy Range: a family-owned winery located in the growing region of Hawke’s Bay, producing high quality wines with distinct aromatics and complexity, Craggy Range winery remains dedicated to producing wines of place to highlight their exclusivity.
Te Mata Estate: Hawke’s Bay provides ideal conditions for winemakers to showcase their skills. We can see this reflected at Te Mata Estate as it produces classic wines of exceptional taste and quality.
Trinity Hill: Trinity Hill prides itself on offering food-friendly wines, crafted from vineyards in the Gimblett Gravels region. The wine range celebrates 25 years of wine making in Hawke’s Bay.
Wharekaka Martinborough and Wairarapa:
Ata Rangi: this winery takes a sustainable and minimalist approach to the vintage season, choosing to find that sweet spot of sugar, tannin and acid intersection. Wine tasting takes place in a bespoke and intimate session.
Palliser Estate: Palliser Estate is celebrated for its award-winning Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, crafted with a commitment to sustainability and organic practices. Set against the rugged beauty of Cape Palliser, the winery offers a unique experience with alfresco dining, guided tastings and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the character of its land and people.
