Palliser Estate Winery | Martinborough
I’ve visited Palliser Estate Winery in Martinborough three times lately – I love it!
There are a few reasons why I love it… tied equal in the first place are the food, the wine, and the environment.
Food | Palliser Estate Winery is currently hosting a food collab with Nara, aptly called ‘Nara at Palliser.’ Nara is located in an adorable food truck on-site with fresh, seasonal dishes. On our first visit, we tried one of every plate on the menu. My favorite was the buttermilk fried chicken sliders on brioche. The crispy chicken with the soft brioche and the fresh slaw – delicious!!! Next up is probably the halloumi with strawberries, balsamic, and honey. I went back for seconds of this the next time I visited. It’s a drool-worthy combination, perfect with ‘The Griffin’ a traditional method sparkling – more on that later.
Wine | More on that now actually. The Griffin is one of the best NZ sparklings I have tried. A Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend aged on yeast lees for over three years – it’s creamy and has that special champagne-like flavour from the traditional method in which it was produced. The rose was also lovely, perfect on a Summer day. It’s light and dry, almost Provence style. I also tried their Chardonnay – very easy to drink with that beautiful mix of creamy minerality.
Environment | I love the space. The grounds are gorgeous. You have the vineyard which stretches over to the estate, a beautiful white structure surrounded with mature trees, beautiful landscaping, and plenty of seating options. There’s the dining seating under the trees, dining out under the umbrellas, the beanbags, and casual chairs under the trees. Best of all, there’s plenty of space and open-air, making for a more comfortable environment as Omicron enters NZ shores.
We went for a full meal, for wine and snacks, and for wine and an iceblock. I just realised I’ve never done a tasting, how rude of me! I’ll need to do that next!
It’s a fantastic spot with lovely staff, fab food, and delicious wine – if you’re in Martinborough, Palliser Estate should be high up on your list.
PS. There’s currently a Sunflower field if you head down the drive towards Peppers Resort, look to the right.
