Bridge PA Triangle Wine District

This region south of Gimblett Gravels is quickly earning acclaim. The red metal soil retains water better than the Gimblett district and therefore can produce aromatic wines. bridgepatriangle.nz

WINERIES TO VISIT:

ASH RIDGE WINERY: This low-key winery is still one of Hasting's best-kept secrets. Winemaker Lauren Swift was named Young Winemaker of the Year in 2015 and is a hoot, bringing the wines to life with descriptions such as “oaky monster” to describe a 1980s-style chardonnay. The winery serves platters and pizzas for lunch, which can be eaten at picnic tables outside. Try the Estate Merlot. The winery is also the starting point of the On Yer Bike wine tours. 2543 SH50, Flaxmere, Roys Hill. (06) 650-4324, ashridgewines.com

ABBEY WINERY AND BREWING: With its church windows and wines with names such as Testament and Bishop, this winery, founded by Jan and Warren Haworth, pays homage to Hawke's Bay's Marist wine beginnings. It's known for its merlot and cabernet blends and its rieslings, and regularly hosts concerts and live music on its grounds. The Haworths' son Dermot, now the CEO, has also started creating craft beers. 1769 Maraekākaho Road, Bridge Pā. (06) 879 6171, abbeycellars.com