It would be rude not to visit at least one winery while you’re in Blenheim! And if you’re only picking one, Cloudy Bay is an iconic choice. Known for producing one of Aotearoa’s most famous Sauvignon Blancs, their Cellar Door on Jackson’s Road is the perfect spot to sample their world-class wines.

The vibe here changes with the seasons. It's cosy and inviting in winter, but the deck and gardens come alive in summer, and Jack’s Raw Bar serves up freshly shucked Marlborough oysters, Cloudy Bay clams and other delish food. No matter when you visit, I recommend you grab a cheese platter, settle into an oversized bean bag or a hanging egg chair, and soak in the vineyard views across the Richmond Ranges.

Tastings range from $10 to $45, and you can book a private tour if you want to dive deeper into their winemaking process.