Best Wineries in Wellington: Discover the Top 5 Experts for Exceptional Wine Experiences
Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, is surrounded by the renowned Wairarapa wine region, making it a gateway to some of the country’s finest wineries. Selecting the best wineries in Wellington ensures an unforgettable tasting experience, with world-class Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay just a short drive from the city. In this guide, we’ve curated the top five wineries in the Wairarapa region, accessible from Wellington, each celebrated for their award-winning wines, stunning vineyard settings, and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast seeking bold reds, a couple planning a romantic day trip, or a group looking for a relaxed cellar door, these wineries offer outstanding wine tasting and dining experiences. Located primarily in Martinborough, about an hour’s drive from Wellington, these estates showcase the region’s terroir and boutique charm. Explore our list to find the perfect winery to savor Wellington’s wine culture.
1. Ata Rangi
About the Business
Founded in 1980 by Clive Paton, Ata Rangi is one of Martinborough’s pioneering wineries, renowned for its world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This family-owned estate, just a 60-minute drive from Wellington, has earned international acclaim, including a 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards Platinum for its Pinot Noir, and is celebrated for its sustainable practices.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah, open daily from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The winery provides cheese platters, guided vineyard tours by appointment, and a cozy tasting room with vineyard views. They also host events, offer a wine club, and sell wines online.
Who It’s For
Ideal for wine connoisseurs, couples seeking a premium tasting, and groups wanting an educational vineyard experience a short drive from Wellington.
What to Expect
Expect a warm, intimate tasting experience at their rustic cellar door, surrounded by Martinborough’s rolling vineyards. Knowledgeable staff guide you through their elegant wines, with a focus on their flagship Pinot Noir, often rated 95+ points. The serene setting is perfect for enjoying a cheese platter, and vineyard tours offer insights into their organic practices. Bookings are recommended for tours and groups.
Standout Features
- Pioneering Martinborough winery with globally acclaimed Pinot Noir.
- Organic and sustainable winemaking practices.
- Intimate cellar door with guided vineyard tours.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shared, “Ata Rangi’s Pinot Noir was phenomenal, and the staff were so knowledgeable. The vineyard setting was a perfect escape from Wellington!”
Why Choose Them?
Ata Rangi’s world-class wines, sustainable ethos, and intimate tasting experience make it a must-visit for an authentic Wellington wine adventure.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 14 Puruatanga Road, Martinborough 5711
Phone: 06 306 9570
Website: atarangi.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM
2. Poppies Martinborough
About the Business
Poppies Martinborough, founded in 2009 by Poppy and Shayne Hammond, is a boutique winery a 60-minute drive from Wellington, celebrated for its handcrafted Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Known for its stunning vineyard views and exceptional dining, this family-run estate offers a warm, personalized experience in the heart of Martinborough.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($15, includes a platter) of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, and Riesling, open daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The winery’s restaurant serves gourmet platters and seasonal dishes, paired with their wines. They also host private events, offer a wine club, and sell wines online.
Who It’s For
Perfect for foodies, couples seeking a romantic tasting and dining experience, and groups wanting a relaxed vineyard visit.
What to Expect
Expect a stylish, open-air cellar door with breathtaking vineyard views, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Tastings are paired with artisan platters, showcasing their vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and silky Pinot Noir. The restaurant’s seasonal menu, featuring dishes like local lamb, elevates the experience. Reservations are essential for dining and recommended for tastings.
Standout Features
- Boutique winery with a focus on Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
- Exceptional dining with gourmet platters and seasonal dishes.
- Stunning vineyard views, ideal for a romantic day trip.
Customer Feedback
A guest noted, “Poppies’ Rosé and platter were divine, and the vineyard setting was gorgeous. The perfect day out from Wellington!”
Why Choose Them?
Poppies Martinborough’s exquisite wines, gourmet dining, and picturesque setting make it a top destination for a memorable Wellington wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 91 Puruatanga Road, Martinborough 5711
Phone: 06 306 8473
Website: poppiesmartinborough.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
3. Palliser Estate
About the Business
Palliser Estate, established in 1984, is one of Martinborough’s largest and most awarded wineries, located a 60-minute drive from Wellington. Renowned for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, this sustainable winery combines quality winemaking with a welcoming cellar door, earning accolades like the 2024 New Zealand Wine of the Year for its Pinot Noir.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling, open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The winery provides cheese and charcuterie boards, vineyard tours by appointment, and event spaces for private functions. They also offer a wine club and online wine sales.
Who It’s For
Suitable for wine enthusiasts, groups seeking a comprehensive tasting, and those interested in sustainable winemaking.
What to Expect
Expect a spacious, modern cellar door with a relaxed atmosphere and vineyard views. Tastings are led by expert staff, highlighting Palliser’s award-winning wines, particularly their Pinot Noir, often rated 90+ points. Cheese boards complement the wines, and vineyard tours offer insights into their sustainable practices. Bookings are advised for tours and large groups.
Standout Features
- Award-winning Pinot Noir, named New Zealand Wine of the Year 2024.
- Sustainable winemaking with a focus on quality.
- Spacious cellar door with vineyard tours and event spaces.
Customer Feedback
A visitor said, “Palliser’s Chardonnay was outstanding, and the cellar door was so inviting. A fantastic stop on our Wellington wine tour!”
Why Choose Them?
Palliser Estate’s acclaimed wines, sustainable practices, and welcoming cellar door make it a premier choice for a Wellington wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 96 Kitchener Street, Martinborough 5711
Phone: 06 306 9019
Website: palliser.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM–4:00 PM
4. Margrain Vineyard
About the Business
Margrain Vineyard, founded in 1992 by the Margrain family, is a boutique winery in Martinborough, a 60-minute drive from Wellington. Known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and innovative dessert wines, this family-run estate offers a charming cellar door and boutique accommodation, blending quality winemaking with warm hospitality.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, includes a cheese plate) of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and dessert wines, open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (October–April). The winery provides cheese platters, vineyard accommodation in luxury villas, and event hosting. They also offer a wine club and online wine sales.
Who It’s For
Great for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families wanting a relaxed tasting, and groups looking for accommodation and wine experiences.
What to Expect
Expect a quaint, family-friendly cellar door with a cozy patio overlooking the vineyards. Tastings are personal, showcasing their silky Pinot Noir and unique dessert wines, guided by friendly staff. The cheese platters enhance the experience, and the luxury villas offer a serene stay. No bookings are needed for tastings, but accommodation and events require reservations.
Standout Features
- Boutique winery with exceptional Pinot Noir and dessert wines.
- Luxury vineyard accommodation for a complete getaway.
- Family-run with a warm, personal tasting experience.
Customer Feedback
A guest remarked, “Margrain’s dessert wine was a highlight, and the cellar door was so charming. We loved staying in their villa!”
Why Choose Them?
Margrain Vineyard’s boutique charm, unique wines, and accommodation options make it a delightful choice for a Wellington wine escape.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 19 Huangarua Road, Martinborough 5711
Phone: 06 306 9292
Website: margrainvineyard.co.nz
Hours: October–April, daily, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; May–September, weekends only
5. Colombo Martinborough
About the Business
Colombo Martinborough, established in 1994, is a family-owned winery a 60-minute drive from Wellington, known for its approachable, high-quality Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Syrah. With a modern cellar door and a focus on sustainability, this estate offers a relaxed yet sophisticated tasting experience in Martinborough’s wine village.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Rosé, open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The winery provides artisan platters, vineyard tours by appointment, and event spaces for private functions. They also offer a wine club and online wine sales.
Who It’s For
Ideal for casual wine lovers, groups seeking a relaxed tasting, and those interested in approachable, sustainable wines.
What to Expect
Expect a sleek, contemporary cellar door with a friendly, laid-back vibe and vineyard views. Tastings highlight Colombo’s vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and smooth Pinot Noir, guided by welcoming staff. Artisan platters featuring local cheeses complement the wines, and the modern setting is perfect for a leisurely visit. Bookings are advised for tours and large groups.
Standout Features
- Family-owned with approachable, high-quality wines.
- Modern cellar door with a focus on sustainability.
- Artisan platters enhance the tasting experience.
Customer Feedback
A visitor said, “Colombo’s Syrah was delicious, and the cellar door was so modern and welcoming. A great stop on our Wellington wine tour!”
Why Choose Them?
Colombo Martinborough’s approachable wines, modern facilities, and sustainable focus make it a fantastic choice for a relaxed Wellington wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 107 Todds Road, Martinborough 5711
Phone: 06 306 8990
Website: colombowine.com
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Winery in Wellington
Selecting one of the best wineries in Wellington guarantees an immersive experience in the Wairarapa’s world-class wine region, just a short drive from the capital. Ata Rangi, Poppies Martinborough, Palliser Estate, Margrain Vineyard, and Colombo Martinborough offer diverse experiences, from intimate tastings to gourmet dining and luxury stays, showcasing Martinborough’s renowned Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual visitor, these wineries highlight Wellington’s vibrant wine culture.
Ready to sip and savor? Contact one of these top Wellington-area wineries today to book a tasting or plan your visit. With their exceptional wine tasting and warm hospitality, you’ll discover the heart of Wairarapa’s wine heritage in every glass.
Helpful Information About Wellington Wineries
Wellington offers convenient access to some of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions, with the Wairarapa and Martinborough just over an hour away by car or train. These wineries are known for their boutique charm, sustainable practices, and world-class varietals such as Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Whether departing from the city center, the nearby suburbs of Thorndon or Mount Victoria, or exploring coastal drives from Oriental Bay, a wine day trip from Wellington blends picturesque scenery with exceptional wine tasting experiences.
The area surrounding Wellington is perfect for wine lovers looking to experience cellar door tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet platters in a relaxed environment. Martinborough’s compact wine village is especially popular for weekend getaways and romantic retreats, with many wineries offering boutique accommodations and dining. Local wine trails and self-guided tours make exploring the region easy, while Wellington’s laid-back lifestyle and creative culture enhance the overall experience of visiting a vineyard just outside the capital city.
Choosing the Right Wineries in Wellington
- Consider how far you’re willing to travel from Wellington—Martinborough is the most popular region and is just over an hour’s drive or train/bus ride from the city.
- Look for wineries that offer the varietals you most enjoy, such as Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, or Rosé, as different estates specialize in different grapes.
- Check if the winery provides added experiences like vineyard tours, artisan food platters, or accommodation, to enhance your visit.
- For group visits or special events, inquire about private tastings or function spaces to ensure a more tailored experience.
- Review opening hours and booking policies—many Wellington-area wineries recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends and public holidays.
- Opt for wineries with sustainability certifications if you’re interested in eco-conscious wine production and environmentally friendly practices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wellington Wineries
What is the best time of year to visit wineries near Wellington?
The most popular time to visit Wellington-area wineries is during the warmer months, from November to April, when many vineyards are in full bloom and offer extended tasting hours. Autumn (March-April) is especially scenic during harvest season.
How do I get to the wineries from central Wellington?
Most wineries are located in Martinborough, about a 60-minute drive from Wellington via the Remutaka Hill Road. Travellers can also take a train to Featherston and a connecting shuttle or bike to reach the wine village.
Are Wellington wineries suitable for families or non-drinkers?
Yes, many wineries near Wellington offer family-friendly amenities such as outdoor spaces, food platters, and scenic picnic areas. Non-drinkers can enjoy the views, food, and atmosphere without needing to participate in tastings.
Do wineries around Wellington require reservations?
While walk-ins are welcome at many cellar doors, reservations are recommended—especially for larger groups, vineyard tours, or dining experiences. Booking in advance ensures a more personalized and seamless visit.
Can I buy wine directly from these wineries?
Yes, most Wellington-area wineries offer on-site purchases as well as online sales with domestic and sometimes international shipping. Joining a wine club is another option for regular deliveries and exclusive releases.