Nestled in the heart of the South Island, Christchurch, New Zealand’s garden city, is your new go-to destination for a unique wine and spirits experience. This hospitable, English-influenced city provides a vibrant drinks scene, from world-class wineries to artisanal whisky distilleries. Let’s take you on a beginner’s journey through what Christchurch has to offer.
First, let’s chat about wine. Canterbury’s wine region, which Christchurch is a part of, has been fast gaining credibility on the international stage for its elegant and diverse range of wines. The local climate, combined with the abundant sunshine and the North Canterbury soils, produces spectacular flavours worthy of any connoisseur’s consideration. Whether you’re a fan of classic Pinot Noir, vibrant aromatic whites, or the surprising Chardonnay, you’re in for a treat.
A must-visit is Pegasus Bay, renowned for producing excellent Riesling and Pinot Noir and offering a beautiful cellar door experience. Pair your wine tasting with a wander around the captivating gardens. Similarly, Waipara Valley is home to over 80 vineyards, each with its unique qualities. A standout is Black Estate, producing organic and biodynamic wines with the utmost respect for the land. Don’t leave without experiencing their phenomenal food and wine pairings.
If you’re more interested in the spirits, Christchurch won’t disappoint. The city boasts a growing number of craft distilleries, with whisky stealing the spotlight. This isn’t surprising considering New Zealand’s history with whisky distilling dates back to the late 1800s.
The Christchurch-based whisky distillery, The Spirits Workshop, is the producer of the internationally renowned “South Island Single Malt”. Here, they combine traditional methods with Canterbury barley and the purest water from the Southern Alps to create whiskies of intense character.
Their tasting and distillery tours provide a fascinating insight into whisky production, from mashing and fermentation to distilling and maturation. Visitors will appreciate the warm and friendly atmosphere and, of course, the array of quality whisky to sample.
By now, you may be wondering about the beer scene in Christchurch. Kiwis love their craft beer, and Christchurch is no exception. Operating from restored heritage buildings to modern hubs, the city’s craft breweries have a strong following. Visit Cassels & Sons Brewing Co for a unique wood-fired brewing process, or give the Three Boys Brewery a try, known for their balanced and consistent flavours.
If a tour of all these places seems daunting, don’t fear. Christchurch offers several tour companies that will do the driving for you. They can whisk you off on a winery tour, a craft beer crawl, or a spirits exploration, ensuring you get the most out of your Christchurch drinks experience.
From the charming wineries in the picturesque Canterbury plains to the towering copper distillation columns in the heart of the city, Christchurch is a paradise for drink enthusiasts. Whatever your preference may be, the wide selection of exceptional wines, whiskies, and beers guarantees an unforgettable tasting experience. So pack your bags, and prepare for drink christchurch a delightful sip of Christchurch’s world of beverages.