Leading Gisborne Wineries

After departing from the pier, you will enjoy a short but picturesque drive into the rolling countryside on the outskirts of Gisborne. This area is fast becoming one of the largest wine-producing regions in New Zealand, thanks to its Mediterranean-style climate, fertile alluvial soil and low-altitude river plains. While Chardonnay is the most popular wine here, Gewürztraminer is becoming a favorite as well.

You will have the opportunity to sample several of the area’s most renowned wines while visiting two wineries. At Bushmere Estate, a small winery where the Egan family has been growing grapes for more than 40 years, you will enjoy a wine tasting accompanied by a light antipasto platter. The wines may include an elegant Chardonnay with hints of nectarine and grapefruit. Bushmere Estate’s excellent Gewürztraminer may also be a selection, and it typically features lychee flavors with a touch of honey and a lime and ginger finish.

You will also enjoy a tasting at Matawhero Wines. Established in 1968 by Bill Irwin, it defied convention and made wines of boutique standing and international acclaim and in doing so, changed the face of New Zealand winemaking forever. Since its first vintage in 1975, Matawhero has produced many excellent and often adventurous wines. Following in Bill’s pioneering footsteps, son Denis imparted his colorful style and won fame for his Gewürztraminer – everyone was drinking it, even the Queen of England. Today, revived by the Searle family, Matawhero is true to the founders’ determination, producing individualistic wines of world class standard. Learn more about the family’s commitment to sustainable wine producing as you sample their varietals while nibbling on complimentary cheeses. Following your visit at Matawhero, you will return to the pier.