About
Wairau River Cellar Door & Number 11 Restaurant stands out in Marlborough for combining world-class Sauvignon Blanc with genuine hospitality and a strong commitment to sustainable winemaking. Perched on Rapaura Road in Renwick—the heart of Marlborough's wine country—this family-owned winery has earned a loyal following for consistently producing elegant wines and maintaining one of the region's most welcoming cellar door experiences. The on-site Number 11 Restaurant elevates the visit beyond a quick tasting, offering a proper dining experience that pairs local produce with their own wines.
Visitors should expect a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where staff genuinely know their wines and aren't pushy about sales. Most people spend 1.5 to 3 hours here, combining tastings with a meal or grazing board. It suits everyone—couples on a romantic lunch, families (kids are welcome, though it's more adult-focused), and serious wine enthusiasts. The cellar door is open year-round, though summer (December–February) brings the liveliest crowds. Book ahead for the restaurant, especially weekends, as it fills quickly. Tastings are generously poured, and the knowledgeable team will happily discuss their winemaking philosophy without pretension.
Wairau River fits naturally into a broader Marlborough wine trail day, sitting within easy driving distance of other Rapaura Road wineries like Cloudy Bay and Greywacke. The region itself is best visited during harvest season (March–April) for vineyard energy, or in spring (September–November) when the vines are flowering and the weather is reliably warm. Pair this visit with a cycle ride through the valley or a stop at the nearby Marlborough Farmers Market on Saturdays.
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