Big Sky Wines is a boutique vineyard and winery located in Martinborough, New Zealand, known for producing complex and expressive wines with a strong emphasis on Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
The vineyard is nestled on the high alluvial terrace of the Huangarua River, offering low yielding deep gravels, warm days, and cool nights under the big southern sky. Started in 2005 by Katherine Jacobs and Jeremy Corban, Big Sky Wines has grown to become a sought-after destination for wine lovers who seek world-class hand-crafted wines that passionately express the character of the region.
What to See and Do
Visitors can make an appointment to experience a taste of Big Sky Wines, which is strongly recommended due to the winery's popularity. Whether a small or large group, visitors can choose to indulge in a wine-tasting experience that allows them to sample the exquisite wines while chatting with the passionate staff who take great pride in sharing their knowledge of the region and enchanting wines.
For tourists looking to enhance their wine knowledge, they can participate in a wine match masterclass at Winetopia, an event that enables them to learn about the different food and wine pairings that suit them, giving them a better appreciation of how wine complements or contrasts different foods.
When to Go
The ideal time to plan a visit to Big Sky Wines is between October to April, when the winery is open to visitors. During this period, visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunshine, warm temperatures, and picturesque surrounding landscapes that enhance the beauty and flavors of the outstanding wines.
How to Get There
Big Sky Wines is strategically located in the heart of Martinborough, one of the towns within the Wairarapa region of the Wellington wine route. The wine route extends over two islands, including Hawke's Bay, Marlborough, and Wairarapa, forming what has become known as the 'Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.' Tourists can plan to include Big Sky Wines as part of their wine adventure by taking a scenic drive from Wellington, a journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Alternatively, they can choose to travel by ferry from Wellington to Picton, followed by a drive through the Marlborough region, taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Conclusion
For wine enthusiasts keen to explore and indulge in New Zealand's best wines, Big Sky Wines is a must-visit destination. The winery's dedication towards producing complex and expressive wines has earned it several awards, including a medal for its 2009 Big Sky Pinot Noir and a bronze medal for its 2008 Big Sky Sauvignon Blanc. Plan a visit to Big Sky Wines to taste some of New Zealand's finest wines and enjoy the charming surroundings of the Martinborough region.