Sun, Sand And Sauvignon
Sun, Sand And Sauvignon
Waiheke Island winery brings its wines to the beach.
Imagine being out on a boat, cruising around a pretty island on a sunny day. You have your pick of beaches to pull up to and enjoy a picnic. Which beach should you choose? Probably the one with a tasting room.
Man O' War Vineyards, located on picturesque Waiheke Island off the coast of Auckland, New Zealand, is pretty remote so far as wineries go. Waiheke is a 30-minute ferry ride from Auckland, and Man O' War sits on the opposite side of the island along twisty, hilly roads.
So Man O' War decided to bring the wine to the people. On a nearby beach that's a popular picnic and swimming spot, Man O' War set up a trailer where visitors can stop in and try some wine. The trailer has a generator for power, and is open only in the summer months. You can get there by car, but the roads aren't paved or marked well, so this tasting room is best accessed by boat. It's worth visiting just for the view.
If you can't make it to the eastern end of Waiheke, the wines are readily available around the world. Man O' War produces Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Syrah and a red blend of Bordeaux varietals; most of the wines clock in at $30 or under. Click here to find them at a retailer near you.
Or, if you have a boat, head out to the docks--it's summer in New Zealand. Just don't forget to pack that picnic.
Tags: new zealand, wahiheke island
