Today we docked in Napier at 12 pm and left at 9 pm. Apparently it's a tidal port and the times of docking are dictated by the tides. It is a busy export port with lumber being the number one export followed by apples.

We visited the wine area of Hawkes Bay, the oldest and second largest wine growing region in New Zealand. It's a busy agricultural area where they grow a LOT of apples, many other fruits & vegetables, and of course grapes.

We first visited Mission Estate wines. https://missionestate.co.nz/

They describe themselves as the oldest and birth place of wines in New Zealand. We had a nice tasting which included a Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region. The Marlborough region is on the southern island, where Mission also has a winery. Marlborough is the largest wine region in the country and apparently you have to have wines from there in your repertoire to be considered a player (David and I visited there on our last visit to NZ).

We also tasted wines from this region including a Chardonnay, a Riesling, Syrah and a Cabernet- Merlot.

It's a pretty winery and worth a visit.

The second visit was to Ash Ridge, which was started by former All Black rugby player, John Ashworth (is my David John Ashworth related? I wish!). https://www.ashridgewines.com/index.cfm?

This winery was purchased by the family in 2021. Its much more eclectic and playful.

We tried their Bubbles, a Sauvignon Blanc, a Rose, a couple of Pinot Noirs (including one that is supposed to be refrigerated) and a dessert Ruby Syrah.

We personally preferred the wines at the first winery but both produce highly rated wines.

Upon returning to Napier I walked around for about a half hour. Most places were already closed however the city is known for its' Art Deco architecture. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1931. It was quickly rebuilt in the Art Deco style. It's very quaint. It was also interesting to learn about how the land shifted dramatically, including rising by about 2 meters during the earthquake. Nature and human ingenuity are incredible.

Key Wine Areas and Sub-Regions:

Gimblett Gravels:

This sub-region is renowned for its gravelly soils and produces world-class red wines, particularly Bordeaux blends. 

Bridge Pa Triangle:

Located near the Gimblett Gravels, this area also produces excellent red wines, known for its unique terroir. 

Hillsides:

This area, mainly concentrated on the slopes of Te Mata Peak, is known for producing classic red varieties. 

Central Hawke's Bay:

This area is the coolest wine-growing area in Hawke's Bay, known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir grapes. 

Alluvial Plains:

These plains, including the pioneering vineyards of Taradale and Meeanee, are home to a variety of grape-growing sites. 

River Valleys:

Higher altitude sites in the river valleys produce premium Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir.