Best Wineries in Hastings: Top 5 Experts You Can Count On for Exceptional Wines
Hastings, nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, is a wine lover’s paradise, and the best wineries in Hastings offer world-class wines paired with unforgettable experiences. Known for its sunny climate and gravelly soils, this region produces rich reds and crisp whites that rival global benchmarks. This guide highlights five exceptional wineries renowned for their craftsmanship, stunning settings, and warm hospitality, ensuring a memorable visit for every palate.
These five verified businesses provide specialized winery services, from intimate cellar door tastings to gourmet dining, catering to locals, tourists, and wine enthusiasts. With a focus on quality and sustainability, they showcase the best of Hawke’s Bay’s viticulture. Read on to explore their offerings, unique strengths, and why they’re Hastings’ top wineries.
1. Craggy Range Winery
About the Business
Craggy Range Winery, established in 1998 in Havelock North, is a family-owned estate set against the dramatic Te Mata Peak. Renowned globally for its premium wines, their Gimblett Gravels vineyard produces iconic Bordeaux-style blends and Syrah, earning multiple awards. The winery’s sophisticated cellar door and two-hat restaurant elevate the experience, making it a must-visit in Hastings.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($15–$25, refundable with purchase), featuring their Te Kahu blend, Syrah, and Chardonnay. The restaurant serves seasonal, wine-paired menus, including dishes like roasted lamb with Pinot Noir jus. Additional services include vineyard tours, private tastings, luxury accommodation in vineyard cottages, and event hosting for weddings or corporate functions.
Who It’s For
Perfect for wine connoisseurs, couples seeking a romantic outing, and groups celebrating special occasions in a luxurious setting.
What to Expect
Expect a polished, upscale experience in a stunning vineyard setting with manicured gardens and lake views. Tastings, led by knowledgeable staff, take 30–45 minutes, offering 5–6 wines with detailed notes on terroir and winemaking. The restaurant’s two-hat cuisine, crafted by chef Casey McDonald, uses local produce, and bookings are essential. The atmosphere is refined yet welcoming, with outdoor seating for sunny days.
Standout Features
- Globally acclaimed wines, including the award-winning Sophia blend.
- Two-hat restaurant with wine-paired seasonal menus.
- Luxury vineyard cottages for overnight stays.
- Clayver ceramic vessels for pure Pinot Noir aging.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shares, “Craggy Range’s tasting with Maddy was phenomenal—her knowledge made the wines come alive, and the restaurant’s lamb dish was unforgettable!”
Why Choose Them?
Craggy Range’s iconic wines, world-class dining, and breathtaking setting make it a premier destination for an elevated winery experience in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 253 Waimarama Road, Havelock North, Hastings 4294
Phone: 06 873 7126
Website: www.craggyrange.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
2. Trinity Hill Wines
About the Business
Trinity Hill Wines, founded in 1996 in the Gimblett Gravels, is a boutique winery celebrated for its Chardonnay and Bordeaux-style reds. With a 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating, their modern cellar door and relaxed outdoor area offer a welcoming space to explore their award-winning wines, crafted by winemaker Warren Gibson.
Key Services / What They Offer
They provide cellar door tastings ($15 for 6 wines, waived with purchase), featuring their Gimblett Gravels Syrah and Homage blend. Services include cheese platters ($30), picnic hampers for summer, and guided vineyard tours by appointment. They also offer online wine sales and a wine club with exclusive releases.
Who It’s For
Suitable for wine enthusiasts, casual visitors, and families looking for a relaxed tasting with outdoor seating and food options.
What to Expect
Expect a friendly, laid-back vibe with tastings hosted by knowledgeable staff, lasting 30–40 minutes. The outdoor tables are perfect for enjoying a cheese platter and wine under the Hawke’s Bay sun. Tastings cover 3 whites and 3 reds, with insights into the region’s gravelly soils. Bookings are recommended on weekends, and the setting is family-friendly with space for kids to roam.
Standout Features
- Award-winning Gimblett Gravels Syrah and Chardonnay.
- Relaxed outdoor tasting area with cheese platters.
- Guided vineyard tours for deeper wine insights.
- 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating for service and quality.
Customer Feedback
A guest notes, “Trinity Hill’s tasting was fantastic—the staff explained each wine so well, and the cheese platter was a perfect match!”
Why Choose Them?
Trinity Hill’s boutique charm, exceptional reds, and approachable tastings make it a standout for authentic Hawke’s Bay wine experiences.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 2396 State Highway 50, Hastings 4175
Phone: 06 879 7778
Website: www.trinityhill.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
3. Te Awa Winery
About the Business
Te Awa Winery, located in the Gimblett Gravels since 1992, is a family-owned estate known for its balanced Chardonnay and Merlot blends. Their cellar door and restaurant, set in a cozy courtyard, offer a welcoming experience, earning a 4.5-star rating on Google for their wines and seasonal cuisine.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10 for 5 wines, refundable with purchase), featuring their Left Field and Single Estate ranges. The restaurant serves lunch daily, with dishes like grilled fish paired with Sauvignon Blanc. Services include vineyard tours ($15–$20), event hosting, and online wine orders with a wine club for discounts.
Who It’s For
Great for foodies, couples, and groups seeking a winery with excellent dining and accessible tastings near Hastings’ main hubs.
What to Expect
Expect a warm, inviting atmosphere with tastings hosted in a charming courtyard or fireside lounge, taking 30–45 minutes. Staff share insights on the winery’s organic practices, and the restaurant’s seasonal menu uses local produce. Tastings include reds and whites, and bookings are advised for dining. The setting is relaxed, with garden seating for summer visits.
Standout Features
- Renowned for balanced Chardonnay and Merlot blends.
- Daily lunch restaurant with wine-paired seasonal dishes.
- Organic vineyard practices for sustainable wines.
- Accessible location in Gimblett Gravels.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shares, “Te Awa’s tasting and lunch were superb—the Sauvignon Blanc paired perfectly with the fish, and the courtyard was so inviting!”
Why Choose Them?
Te Awa’s sustainable wines, excellent dining, and cozy setting offer a perfect blend of quality and accessibility for Hastings wine lovers.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 2375 State Highway 50, Hastings 4175
Phone: 06 879 7602
Website: www.teawa.com
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
4. Clearview Estate
About the Business
Clearview Estate, established in 1987 in Te Awanga, is a family-run winery with a coastal charm, known for its Reserve Chardonnay and Enigma red blend. Their Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and cellar door, set among vines and olive trees, have a 4.6-star Google rating, making it a favorite for relaxed, seaside wine experiences.
Key Services / What They Offer
They provide cellar door tastings ($10 for 5 wines, waived with purchase), showcasing their Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and rosé. The restaurant offers lunch daily, featuring platters and dishes like seafood linguine paired with white wines. Services include wedding venues, seasonal tasting platters, and online wine sales with a loyalty club.
Who It’s For
Ideal for coastal day-trippers, families, and groups seeking a relaxed winery with great food and a laid-back vibe.
What to Expect
Expect a breezy, coastal atmosphere with tastings hosted in a courtyard surrounded by vines, lasting 30–40 minutes. Staff share the winery’s history, and the restaurant’s Mediterranean menu complements the wines. Tastings include award-winning whites and reds, and the outdoor setting is family-friendly with space for kids. Bookings are recommended for dining.
Standout Features
- Iconic Reserve Chardonnay and Enigma red blend.
- Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with seafood focus.
- Coastal location on the Cape Coast cycle trail.
- Family-run with a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
Customer Feedback
A guest notes, “Clearview’s Chardonnay tasting was divine, and the seafood platter in the courtyard was perfect for a sunny day!”
Why Choose Them?
Clearview Estate’s coastal charm, award-winning wines, and delightful dining make it a standout for relaxed, flavourful winery visits.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 194 Clifton Road, Te Awanga, Hastings 4172
Phone: 06 875 0150
Website: www.clearviewestate.co.nz
Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
5. Brookfields Vineyards
About the Business
Brookfields Vineyards, founded in 1937 in Meeanee, is Hawke’s Bay’s oldest boutique winery, with a 4.5-star TripAdvisor rating. Family-run, it’s celebrated for its fruit-driven Pinot Gris and Syrah, offering a casual yet beautiful setting with a garden restaurant that’s a local favorite for wine and dining.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer cellar door tastings ($10 for 5 wines, including chocolate pairing for reds), featuring Pinot Gris, Syrah, and rosé. The restaurant serves lunch with dishes like beef carpaccio paired with Merlot. Services include live music on Saturdays, event hosting, and online wine sales with a club for exclusive vintages.
Who It’s For
Suitable for casual wine lovers, families, and groups seeking a historic winery with great food and a relaxed atmosphere.
What to Expect
Expect a charming, down-to-earth experience with tastings in a cozy cellar door or garden, lasting 30–45 minutes. Staff share the winery’s 80+ year history, and tastings include chocolate to enhance reds. The restaurant’s garden seating is ideal for summer, and live music adds a festive touch. Bookings are advised for dining and weekend tastings.
Standout Features
- Hawke’s Bay’s oldest boutique winery, founded in 1937.
- Chocolate-paired tastings for red wines.
- Garden restaurant with live music on Saturdays.
- Fruit-driven wines with excellent aging potential.
Customer Feedback
A visitor shares, “Brookfields’ Pinot Gris was a highlight, and the chocolate pairing with Syrah was genius. Loved the garden lunch!”
Why Choose Them?
Brookfields Vineyards’ historic charm, fruit-driven wines, and vibrant garden dining offer a delightful, authentic winery experience in Hastings.
Location & Contact Details
Address: 376 Brookfields Road, Meeanee, Hastings 4183
Phone: 06 834 4615
Website: www.brookfieldsvineyards.co.nz
Hours: Monday-Sunday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM
Conclusion: Finding the Best Wineries in Hastings for Your Taste
Choosing the best wineries in Hastings ensures a journey through Hawke’s Bay’s finest wines, paired with stunning settings and exceptional hospitality. Craggy Range, Trinity Hill, Te Awa, Clearview Estate, and Brookfields Vineyards offer diverse experiences—from luxurious dining to relaxed coastal tastings—catering to every wine lover’s preference. Their award-winning wines and commitment to quality make them the top picks for exploring Hastings’ viticulture.
Don’t miss the chance to sip world-class wines in Hawke’s Bay’s heart. Visit one of these wineries today for a tasting, tour, or lunch that celebrates the region’s flavours. With their expertise and warm welcomes, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable wine experience. Act now to discover Hastings’ wine gems!
Helpful Information About Hastings Wineries
Hastings, located in New Zealand’s renowned Hawke’s Bay wine region, is prized for its exceptional wineries and rich viticultural history. With a warm, sunny climate and gravel-rich soils, this area provides ideal conditions for growing both red and white grape varieties such as Syrah, Chardonnay, and Merlot. The city’s surrounding suburbs, including Havelock North, Te Awanga, and Meeanee, house many boutique and family-owned wineries that offer unique tasting experiences and locally inspired cuisine.
Visitors to Hastings can enjoy everything from elegant cellar door tastings and vineyard tours to garden restaurants and coastal wine patios. Many wineries in the area incorporate sustainable practices and cater to a range of preferences, whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a casual wine lover. Exploring the region’s wineries is also a great way to experience Hawke’s Bay’s scenic countryside and its relaxed, community-focused lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Wineries in Hastings
- Look for wineries that align with your taste preferences—whether you enjoy robust reds, crisp whites, or experimental blends, Hastings wineries offer a wide range of varietals.
- Consider the experience you’re after—some wineries focus on high-end dining and luxury accommodations while others provide laid-back, family-friendly environments.
- Check proximity to nearby attractions like Te Mata Peak or the Cape Coast cycle trail to combine wine tastings with local sightseeing.
- Review tasting fees and whether they’re refundable with purchase to help plan a budget-friendly visit.
- Look for wineries offering additional amenities such as guided tours, picnic spots, live music, or wine club memberships for a more enriched experience.
- Visit during off-peak hours or book in advance for tastings and dining to ensure a relaxed and personalized visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hastings Wineries
What is the best time of year to visit wineries in Hastings?
The best time to visit Hastings wineries is during the spring and summer months (October to March) when the weather is warm and vineyards are in full bloom. Autumn (March to May) is also popular, especially during harvest season.
Do I need to book in advance for wine tastings?
While some wineries accept walk-ins, many recommend or require bookings—especially for weekends, large groups, or tastings paired with food. Booking ahead ensures you get a guided experience tailored to your preferences.
Are Hastings wineries suitable for families with children?
Yes, several wineries in Hastings offer family-friendly settings with outdoor spaces, garden seating, and relaxed picnic areas. However, it’s best to check with individual wineries about their specific amenities and child-friendly policies.
What types of wines is Hastings known for?
Hastings is well known for producing premium Syrah, Chardonnay, Bordeaux-style reds, and Pinot Gris. The region’s gravelly soils and maritime influence contribute to the distinct character of these wines.
Can I buy wines directly from the cellar door?
Yes, most wineries in Hastings offer on-site wine sales after tastings, often with discounts or free tastings included with purchases. Many also provide nationwide shipping and online ordering for added convenience.
