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Cloudy Bay Vineyards

Marlborough

• The Best Vineyard in Australasia 2025

Ethos: Adventure, commitment and vision

Winemaker

Nikolai St.George

Wine Style

Sauvignon Blanc, sparkling and Pinot Noir

Once upon a time: The story of Cloudy Bay is one of adventure, vision and commitment. In 1983 David Hohnen tasted his first Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Captivated by its intensity and purity, he sought to bottle the essence of Marlborough. Along with winemaker Kevin Judd, Cloudy Bay's legacy began with Sauvignon Blanc, a flagship wine since its first vintage and probably the one most credited with putting New Zealand on the world wine map.

No time to rest: Never content to rest on their laurels, Cloudy Bay has continued to explore new frontiers; Pelorus méthode traditionnelle cemented New Zealand's reputation for fine sparkling wine. Their barrel-fermented sauvignon blanc, Te Koko, changed how the world saw the region's signature grape variety. Then Cloudy Bay embarked on a new adventure to capture the dark, brooding nuances of pinot noir. They found the perfect place in Central Otago and Te Wahi Pinot Noir was first released in 2016.

Cloudy Bay owns vineyards and property on both North and South Island, so be sure to build plenty of time into your itinerary.

The Founder's Cellar: Climb the stairs to the suspended glass pod and look down into the working winery. Enjoy a glass of wine or a tasting paired with a freshly-prepared platter and immerse yourself in the Cloudy Bay way of life.

Sip and sail away: Tour the Marlborough vineyards, enjoy a private tasting and then head to Picton to board a private 54-foot yacht and sail the Marlborough Sounds. Lunch and a selection of Cloudy Bay wines (of course) are served on board.

Where to stay? The Shack sits on the site of Kevin Judd's original bungalow. Rebuilt after Judd's original building was destroyed by fire, this delightful, modernist building nestles within the landscape, encapsulating the effortless luxury and down-to-earth lifestyle of Cloudy Bay. Four ensuite bedrooms and modern living spaces, an epicurean dinner with private chef and waiter service is also included.

And what about Central Otago? The Shed snuggles amongst Central Otago's impressive, snow-capped peaks, snaking rivers and breathtaking lakes. On the shore of one such lake is The Shed; high vaulted ceilings and stylish decor open out into a picturesque lawn. Year-round, The Shed's restaurant serves spectacular food with a focus on local fare.

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