A talent for a tipple: Clark Estate

Based on 34 acres in the Upper Awatere Valley next to the Black Birch Stream is one of New Zealand’s best boutique wine vineyards

A family affair, Peter and Jane Clark have fostered some stunning vintages with Simon Clark now leading the charge in creating something a little different every year for even the most critical wine aficionado to savour.

From pruning to bottling, he’s a little bit perfectionist, mostly an artist, bringing you something special; working with nature to connect, to understand and to envision and make possible the potential that each harvest brings; creating a wine that is truly powerful, authentic and vibrant. With their méthode traditionelle making waves, along with the riesling, the rose’, the pinot gris, sauvignon blanc or the pinot noir, there is something for even the most discerning palate.

The cellar door is your opportunity, if not visiting the vineyard in person, to grab a bottle or six on the way through Blenheim. It’s cosily set in the front courtyard of Dodson Street Beer Garden, so pop in for a complimentary taste of the award-winning wines, poured for you by one of the family members.

Open 4:30pm to 7:30pm Tuesday to Friday or by request. You can become acquainted with not only the wine, but also the family and its truly unique perspective on creating a wine that you’ll truly enjoy.