Riwaka River Estate is a small, family-run vineyard at 60 Takaka Hill Highway in Riwaka, Tasman. Amber, Paul, Mackenzie and Ashley Rose bought the vineyard in 2008 and make the Resurgence wines there in small batches, each hand crafted to its own style. The vines grow on limestone, and the vineyard is not irrigated, so in dry spells the roots dig deeper for water. Herbicides are not used. The estate sits between two national parks, close to the beaches, cycle paths and walking trails of the Abel Tasman area.
The cellar door is open for tastings and purchases, and it can take groups of up to 50 people. Visitors can taste Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir in the vineyard's quiet setting. The estate has about 400 olive trees, and its extra-virgin olive oil is sold in 250ml and 500ml bottles from the cellar door. The wines and oil can be shipped within New Zealand and overseas, and previous Resurgence vintages have sold out. Our pick in Riwaka for a tasting with the vines in view.