2 Matakana Valley Road,
Matakana
Auckland,


(09) 423 0251

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4 out of 5 stars

This is surprising. Just across the road from Matakana’s back to basics country pub is a sophisticated wine bar that I’d just love to magic back to Auckland.

Specialising only in the wines from the expanding Matakana vineyard scene, The Vintry is a great little spot that deserves an extended stay. Unfortunately we need to move on to somewhere else for dinner, but we experience enough to know we’ll be coming back, maybe for a drink before a movie in Matakana’s cool new boutique cinema.

A cosy fire is flickering amidst The Vintry’s rustic but sophisticated interior. There are jazzy beats bubbling away, and the array of Matakana wines is unparalleled.

The knowledgeable staff really know the local vineyards, and our request for an oaky Chardonnay is effortlessly filled with the superb Mahurangi Estate “Field of Grace”. There are more than 60 local wines available, almost half by the glass, but I break ranks and order a local beer instead. Leigh Sawmill Brewery’s limited edition “12 Gauge” lager is a hops-laden marvel that would probably become a personal favourite it was readily available in Auckland. A dark ale is also available that looks to be a good partner to the cheese and meat platters ($14-16) on offer. Maybe next time we’ll also have time to dive into a “Tasting Flight” ($10.50-$18) focusing on a single varietal from multiple vineyards.

The Vintry is also the location of the Centre for Matakana Wine and have handy touring maps including cellar door prices. And if you discover something you really like while at The Vintry, they’ll sell you wines at cellar door prices as well.

Apparently, a few of the local guys in Matakana reckon The Vintry is a “bit girly”.

They don’t know what they’re missing.