Marlborough has a new wine tourism destination.
Wine + Food Experience Marlborough is designed to showcase the region’s world-renowned wine culture with a one-stop hub for visitors looking to try a variety of local wines and produce.
The redeveloped site in Blenheim’s riverside precinct offers visitors wine tastings as well as cellar door experiences and a range of platter-style dining to perfectly accompany the local drops.
Similar to systems used in other regions like Queenstown, a WineEmotion dispenser allows visitors to sample wines at their desired quantity (a taste, half pour, or full glass) and pace. Digital displays share each wineries’ brand stories and tasting notes for a self-guided experience.
A lounge-like surrounds, terrace and bar provides a relaxed environment to enjoy each glass alongside platters with local products such as Little River Estate cheeses, charcuterie from Premium Game, and Manaaki preserves and condiments. Seafood experiences are also available as a signature seafood offering, crayfish, Marlborough oysters, Mills Bay mussels, Cloudy Bay clams, and smoked salmon.
“Our mission with Wine + Food is to enhance the cellar door journey, not replace it,” explains Wine + Food Experience Marlborough Managing Director Lenny O’Connell.
“Wine + Food ensures visitors to Marlborough who are short on time do not miss tasting the expertly crafted premium wine unique to our region,” says O’Connell, who also revealed an adjoining restaurant offering lunch and dinner will also open shortly.
In addition to local wines, guests can enjoy beer, gin and whiskey tastings and purchase featured products through the on-site off-licence.
Among the highlights? Isabel Estate’s Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2022 which was named Wine of the Year at the prestigious London Wine Competition, Jackson Estate’s Bortrytis Reisling which achieved Gold at the NZ International Wine Show, and The Real Review’s 2025 Rose of the Year, Te Whare Ra Single Vineyard 5182 Rose, all showcasing Marlborough’s depth beyond its famous Sauvignon Blanc.
Wine + Food Experience Marlborough is at 42 Alfred Street, Blenheim-Central, Marlborough.
