EarthGarden Picnic in the Vines

Overview

The Tasting Room at Villa Maria Estate in Auckland is hosting an autumn event series to celebrate the brand's first organic wine range. The EarthGarden collection is part of the vineyard's goal to be 100 percent organically managed by 2030. The range includes the flavour-packed lineup of Marlborough sauvignon blanc, Hawke's Bay rosé, Marlborough pinot noir and Hawke's Bay merlot cabernet sauvignon.

The vineyard's EarthGarden Picnic in the Vines events promise a day out amongst the vines at Māngere estate. From 16 March to 10 April (Tuesday – Saturday), visitors can wander the grounds and enjoy a picnic created by the Tasting Room for $75. Each basket includes your choice of EarthGarden wine, a fresh salad and filled baguette, dessert slice and sparkling water. On return, customers will enjoy a complimentary wine tasting of the full EarthGarden range.

Those who would prefer to watch the action unfold from Villa Maria's newly refurbished Tasting Room can sit in with a lunch platter for two ($40) and the full wine flight for $20. A one-off dinner event on Thursday, March 25 is another option, serving up a four-course meal and all four varietals from the new organic collection. Villa Maria's Matt Deller will reveal how the range was developed, as well as the brand's sustainability story and organic journey. Tickets are $120 per person.

Reservations are required for each event. Email [email protected], call 09 255 1777 or visit villamaria.co.nz/events.