Best Wineries in Napier: Discover the Top 5 Experts for Unforgettable Wine Experiences
Napier, the Art Deco heart of Hawke’s Bay, is a paradise for wine lovers, and selecting the best wineries in Napier guarantees a memorable tasting experience in New Zealand’s second-largest wine region. With over 1,800 hours of sunshine annually and diverse soils, Napier produces world-class Chardonnay, Syrah, and Bordeaux-style reds. In this guide, we’ve curated the top five wineries in Napier, each renowned for their award-winning wines, stunning settings, and exceptional hospitality.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast seeking bold reds, a couple planning a romantic escape, or a family looking for a relaxed cellar door, these wineries offer outstanding wine tasting and dining experiences. From historic estates to modern architectural gems, explore our list to find the perfect winery to savor Napier’s rich wine heritage.
1. Mission Estate Winery
About the Business
Established in 1851 by French Marist missionaries, Mission Estate Winery in Taradale is New Zealand’s oldest winery and a cornerstone of Hawke’s Bay’s wine legacy. Set on a historic estate with panoramic views, this iconic winery combines tradition with innovation, producing acclaimed Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($5, refundable with purchase) of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Syrah, and Bordeaux blends, open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The on-site restaurant serves gourmet dishes, and they host concerts, weddings, and private events. Guided winery tours and a wine club with exclusive releases are also available.
Who It’s For
Ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, couples seeking a romantic dining experience, and groups looking for event venues or concerts.
What to Expect
Expect a warm welcome at their elegant cellar door, set amidst sprawling gardens and historic buildings. The tasting experience is informative, with staff sharing the winery’s 170-year history. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu paired with estate wines, and the views from the hilltop estate are breathtaking. Bookings are recommended for dining and tours.
Standout Features
- New Zealand’s oldest winery, established in 1851.
- Award-winning Chardonnay and Syrah with international accolades.
- Iconic concert venue hosting global artists like Rod Stewart.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shared, “Mission Estate’s tasting was fantastic, and the restaurant’s food was divine. The history and views made it a perfect day out!”
Why Choose Them?
Mission Estate’s rich heritage, stunning estate, and top-tier wines make it a must-visit for an authentic Napier wine experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 198 Church Road, Taradale, Napier 4112
Phone: 06 845 9350
Website: missionestate.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; restaurant 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
2. Church Road Winery
About the Business
Church Road Winery, founded in 1897 in Taradale, is one of Hawke’s Bay’s oldest wineries, celebrated for its pioneering winemaking and award-winning reds and whites. With a modern cellar door and a legacy of crafting Bordeaux-style blends, it’s a cornerstone of Napier’s wine scene.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The winery features a fine-dining restaurant, wine and food pairing experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours. They also host events and offer a wine club.
Who It’s For
Perfect for wine connoisseurs, foodies seeking gourmet pairings, and groups wanting educational tours or event spaces.
What to Expect
Expect a sophisticated tasting experience in a sleek, modern cellar door with vineyard views. Knowledgeable staff guide you through their premium wines, and the restaurant’s seasonal menu complements the tastings. The “Winemaker’s Tour” offers insights into their innovative techniques, making it ideal for wine lovers seeking depth. Reservations are advised for dining and tours.
Standout Features
- One of Hawke’s Bay’s oldest wineries with a 127-year legacy.
- Renowned for Bordeaux-style reds and rich Chardonnays.
- Unique wine and food pairing experiences with gourmet dishes.
Customer Feedback
A guest noted, “Church Road’s Syrah was outstanding, and the food pairing elevated the experience. The tour was so informative!”
Why Choose Them?
Church Road’s historic legacy, premium wines, and gourmet offerings make it a top destination for a refined Napier winery experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 150 Church Road, Taradale, Napier 4112
Phone: 06 833 8234
Website: churchroad.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM–4:30 PM; restaurant 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
3. Craggy Range Winery
About the Business
Craggy Range Winery, located in Havelock North near Napier, is a family-owned estate founded in 1998, set against the dramatic Te Mata Peak. Renowned for its single-vineyard wines and architectural elegance, it’s a global leader in Syrah, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux blends, earning accolades like “Winery of the Year.”
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($15, refundable with purchase) of Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Merlot blends, open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The acclaimed Terroir Restaurant serves sophisticated cuisine, and they provide vineyard tours, luxury accommodations, and event hosting.
Who It’s For
Suitable for luxury travelers, wine enthusiasts, and couples seeking a premium tasting and dining experience or a vineyard getaway.
What to Expect
Expect a world-class experience in a stunning, architecturally designed cellar door with views of Te Mata Peak. Tastings highlight their single-vineyard wines, guided by expert staff. Terroir Restaurant offers a Michelin-worthy menu, and the vineyard’s luxury cottages provide a serene stay. Bookings are essential for dining and tours.
Standout Features
- Internationally acclaimed for single-vineyard Syrah and Chardonnay.
- Stunning location with luxury cottages for vineyard stays.
- Terroir Restaurant, a culinary highlight of Hawke’s Bay.
Customer Feedback
A visitor remarked, “Craggy Range’s wines were phenomenal, and the restaurant was a highlight. The views and elegance are unmatched!”
Why Choose Them?
Craggy Range’s premium wines, breathtaking setting, and luxury offerings make it a premier choice for an unforgettable Napier winery experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 253 Waimarama Road, Havelock North, Napier 4294
Phone: 06 873 7126
Website: craggyrange.com
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; restaurant 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
4. Clearview Estate Winery
About the Business
Clearview Estate Winery, established in 1986 in Te Awanga, is a boutique, family-owned winery known for its rustic charm and award-winning Chardonnay and Cabernet blends. Located near Cape Kidnappers, it’s a favorite for its relaxed vibe and exceptional restaurant, making it a gem of Napier’s wine scene.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10, refundable with purchase) of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Reserve Cabernet, open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and they provide picnic platters, live music events, and function hosting.
Who It’s For
Great for families, couples, and groups seeking a laid-back tasting experience with excellent food in a coastal setting.
What to Expect
Expect a rustic, welcoming cellar door surrounded by vines and olive trees, perfect for a relaxed visit. Tastings are casual yet informative, showcasing their bold wines. The restaurant’s shaded courtyard is ideal for enjoying wood-fired pizzas and seafood, paired with estate wines. Bookings are recommended for dining, especially in summer.
Standout Features
- Pioneered Hawke’s Bay’s coastal winemaking with bold Chardonnays.
- Rustic restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
- Family-friendly with a relaxed, coastal vibe.
Customer Feedback
A guest said, “Clearview’s Chardonnay was fantastic, and the restaurant’s seafood platter was divine. The laid-back atmosphere was perfect!”
Why Choose Them?
Clearview Estate’s boutique charm, coastal location, and superb dining make it a beloved choice for a relaxed Napier winery experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 194 Clifton Road, Te Awanga, Napier 4102
Phone: 06 875 0150
Website: clearviewestate.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; restaurant 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
5. Elephant Hill Winery
About the Business
Elephant Hill Winery, founded in 2003 in Te Awanga, is a modern architectural masterpiece known for its premium wines and stunning coastal setting. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, it produces exceptional Syrah, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, earning global recognition.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($15, refundable with purchase) of Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and rosé, open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The restaurant serves fine-dining cuisine with ocean views, and they offer vineyard tours, private tastings, and event hosting for weddings or functions.
Who It’s For
Ideal for luxury travelers, foodies, and couples seeking a sophisticated tasting and dining experience in a breathtaking coastal setting.
What to Expect
Expect a sleek, contemporary cellar door with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Tastings are guided by knowledgeable staff, highlighting their sustainable wines. The restaurant’s degustation menu pairs beautifully with their wines, and the serene ambiance is perfect for special occasions. Reservations are essential for dining.
Standout Features
- Stunning modern architecture with oceanfront views.
- Sustainable winemaking with award-winning Syrah and Chardonnay.
- Fine-dining restaurant offering degustation and à la carte menus.
Customer Feedback
A visitor noted, “Elephant Hill’s wines were exquisite, and the restaurant’s ocean views were unforgettable. A truly luxurious experience!”
Why Choose Them?
Elephant Hill’s modern elegance, sustainable wines, and coastal fine dining make it a standout for a premium Napier winery experience.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 86 Clifton Road, Te Awanga, Napier 4102
Phone: 06 872 6060
Website: elephanthill.co.nz
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; restaurant 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Winery in Napier
Selecting one of the best wineries in Napier guarantees an unforgettable experience in Hawke’s Bay, where world-class wines meet stunning settings and warm hospitality. Mission Estate, Church Road, Craggy Range, Clearview Estate, and Elephant Hill offer diverse experiences, from historic tastings to modern fine dining and coastal charm. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, foodie, or traveler, these wineries showcase Napier’s vibrant wine culture.
Ready to sip and savor? Contact one of these top Napier wineries today to book a tasting or dining experience. With their exceptional wine tasting and unique offerings, you’ll discover the heart of Hawke’s Bay’s wine heritage in every glass.
Helpful Information About Napier Wineries
Nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, Napier is renowned for its thriving wine scene, flourishing thanks to its warm maritime climate, fertile soils, and over 1,800 annual sunshine hours. This historic Art Deco city is surrounded by renowned wine-producing areas such as Taradale, Te Awanga, and Havelock North, making it a premier destination for wine lovers across New Zealand and beyond.
Napier wineries are celebrated for their exceptional Syrah, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style blends, with vineyards offering everything from intimate tastings to fine-dining experiences with panoramic views. Visiting local cellar doors provides the perfect opportunity to sample handcrafted wines, enjoy local produce, and explore the rich viticultural heritage of Hawke’s Bay. Wine tourism is deeply woven into Napier’s culture, offering visitors rewarding experiences that combine world-class winemaking with coastal and countryside charm.
Choosing the Right Winery in Napier
- Consider the wine styles you enjoy—Napier is known for Syrah, Chardonnay, and Merlot blends, so choose a winery that specializes in your preferences.
- Look at the overall experience offered—some wineries provide vineyard tours, food pairings, or on-site restaurants for a more immersive visit.
- Check the setting and location—whether you want coastal views in Te Awanga or a hillside vineyard in Taradale, Napier offers diverse winery environments.
- Take note of opening hours and whether bookings are essential, especially for guided tastings and dining during weekends or holidays.
- Research any events or seasonal offerings—many wineries host concerts, local markets, or special tasting sessions that enhance your visit.
- Read recent guest reviews to learn about customer experiences, ambiance, and wine quality before planning your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Napier Wineries
What is the best time of year to visit wineries in Napier?
The best time to visit Napier wineries is between late spring and early autumn (November to April) when the weather is warm, and vineyards are lush. Many wineries also host seasonal events during this time, including harvest festivals and outdoor concerts.
Do I need to book in advance for wine tastings in Napier?
While some wineries allow walk-ins, it’s recommended to book your tasting or tour in advance, especially for larger groups or on weekends. This ensures personalized service, availability, and a smoother overall experience.
Can I bring children or pets to wineries in Napier?
Some wineries in Napier are family- and pet-friendly, offering outdoor seating, picnic areas, or activities suitable for all ages. However, it’s always best to check with the winery ahead of your visit to understand their facilities and policies.
How do I get around to different wineries in Napier?
You can explore Napier’s wineries via car, guided wine tours, or cycling routes like the Hawke’s Bay Trails. Many local operators offer group or private wine tours that include transportation, tastings, and informative guides.
What types of wines are most commonly produced in Napier?
Napier is particularly known for producing high-quality Syrah, Chardonnay, and Bordeaux-style reds such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. You’ll also find Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, and rosé wines depending on the winery and season.
