Goldwater Estate Winery
Waiheke Island

by Gail
(Auckland)

With a couple of hours to spare before we caught the ferry it seemed a good idea to have lunch at Goldwater Estate. The first vineyard on Waiheke........ this well known Winery has a tasting room and separate restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.


The Wine Tasting


We did the wine tasting first. This is one where you choose 4 wines for $5 but the tasting is free if you buy a bottle of wine.


The girl who served us was knowledgeable and interesting. It is always nice to have someone who knows the history of the vineyard, and has good knowledge of the wines and the wine making process she is pouring.


Goldwater has established a high reputation as one of New Zealand’s best. 2008 Goldwater Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc was crisp and citrusy. The beautifully oaked 2007 Goldwater Zell Waiheke Island Chardonnay was creamy with a slight tang....my favourite white, but the 2008 Goldwater Syrah was also excellent with spicy, berry flavours, the vanilla oaked flavour coming through. 2004 Goldwater Goldie Waiheke Island Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot was the favoured red although all the wines we tasted were very good. It was difficult choosig just two to buy! We were given a sample of a dessert wine that was also very delicious! Fruity and not too sweet.


Goldwater Estate Restaurant


Being a beautiful day we opted for an outside table looking up to the vines on the hillside above .A platter for two was just the ticket.

There was a choice of two and we opted for the meaty Goldie Platter ~ Bratwurst sausages, roast veges,goats cheese, basil & chorizo orzo salad, smoked chicken, spinach & feta dip with fresh breads. The Zell Platter had a selection of fish and cheeses. There is also an a la carte menu with a nice range of simple lunch dishes.

We enjoyed the variety on the platter....the freshly baked breads and a few home made dishes make the difference.


I am keen to do a Goldwater Estate Long Lunch which they have on the last Friday of each month.