Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s most compelling wine regions, known for Syrah from Gimblett Gravels, structured Chardonnay, and historic estates near Napier.

​This 2-day Hawke’s Bay wine guide covers Mission Estate, Trinity Hill, Askerné, and Brookfields, plus tips for wine tasting in Taradale and coastal dining in Ahuriri.

Hawke’s Bay Wine Guide
Mission Estate -  Trinity Hill - Askerné - Brookfields
Hawke’s Bay delivers something rare: serious wine with coastal ease.
We structured it across 1.5 days - vineyard focus first, then a slower, more intimate tasting experience on day two.

Day 1: Iconic Estates & Gimblett Gravels Power

Mission Estate - Taradale  New Zealand’s oldest winery (est. 1851)
Start here.
The historic hilltop setting overlooking Napier instantly anchors the day. Mission blends architecture, history, and polished winemaking  - and it’s one of the most photogenic estates in the country.
What stands out:

• Gimblett Gravels Syrah

• Refined Bordeaux blends

• Elegant lawn and dramatic vineyard views

This is your “statement” stop.

Trinity Hill - Gimblett Gravels
Serious Syrah territory
From Mission, head toward the Gimblett Gravels district - the heart of Hawke’s Bay reds.
Trinity Hill focuses on structure and vineyard expression. Their wines lean bold but balanced.
Highlights:

• Gimblett Gravels Syrah

• Tempranillo

• Emma Rosé (excellent coastal-day bottle)

If you want to understand why Gimblett Gravels matters, this is the stop.

Askerné - Havelock North
Laid-back contrast
Askerné feels more relaxed and approachable - a nice tonal shift after two structured estates.
Expect:

• Friendly cellar door

• Bright aromatics

• Easy afternoon pacing

A great final stop before driving into Napier for dinner in Ahuriri.

Brookfields - Taradale Ward
Understated elegance

Day two slowed down.
Brookfields (est. 1937) offers a more intimate tasting room experience - wooden tables, smaller groups, food pairing notes, and a steady pace.
Standouts:

• Bergman Chardonnay 2024

• Barrique Fermented Viognier 2024

• Hillside Syrah 2023

Brookfields showcases the refined side of Hawke’s Bay - less grand estate, more craftsmanship.

Why Hawke’s Bay Works• Historic estates
• World-class Syrah
• Chardonnay with real structure
• Coastal access (Napier / Ahuriri)
• Less crowded than Napa or Marlborough
It’s one of the most balanced wine regions in the Southern Hemisphere

New Zealand Guide