WAIPARA VALLEY WINERIES

Waipara Valley wineries have come a long way since the region's farm-to-vineyard transformation in the 1980s. While pinot noir, riesling and chardonnay rule in this neck of the woods, that's not to say there isn't something left to surprise. Each winery has carved its own niche, and between the quaint cellars and garden-to-table dining, all palettes can be catered for.

For a memorable tasting…

Terrace Edge (328 Georges Road, Waipara. terraceedge.co.nz) proves that the old adage “white wine with fish; red wine with meat” is outdated. This popular family-owned winery pairs five organic wines with a bite-sized tapas-type menu. The tiny portions are delightfully varied, ranging from hot-smoked salmon, a spoonful of thai soup to a sliver of gingerbread. Who knew that a pinot gris could go so well with a tom kha kai soup? These bites are just right and may just give visitors a morsel of knowledge on how to pair wines at home.