Old world romance meets new world wines at Poppies Martinborough
A must-visit destination for all wine-lovers, Poppies Martinborough will sweep you away with simple and stunning food and incredible wines served amongst the vines
To create an atmosphere is a true skill, and one that Shayne and Poppy of Poppies Martinborough have undeniably achieved. Partners in business and life, the pair co-created what has fast become a must-visit destination for all visitors to Martinborough.
The cellar door and tasting room are built on the desire to bring traditional practices, emotion and consistently beautiful wines into Martinborough, a town now considered a wine capital of the country.
Driven to offer something special and not follow temporary fads, the boutique wine producers chose to stay small and do what they do well, rather than grow to meet increasing demand, turn into a commercial production and lose the heart of where they started.
This dedication comes through in the ambience of the venue, the undeniable quality of the wine, and their delectable and carefully constructed platters. Everyone from wine buffs to those on a weekend getaway will enjoy spending time at Poppies to graze, sit, talk and drink, taking part in a cultural experience that goes back hundreds of years.
A fundamental part of Poppies is tradition. Trends in wine come and go, but Poppies has always been focused on creating staples done well. Various elements of production change season to season, from the soil to the climate to the winemaker, but with a foundation of tried and true techniques and a respect for the past, the team create wines that showcase the varietal flavours and deliciousness of the fruit itself, while continuing to deliver what people have come to know and love. This is wine made to be enjoyed slowly and thoroughly, and is made extra special knowing it’s only sold onsite and isn’t traded anywhere else.
We want to create a magical place with an old world feeling, where people feel safe to try the wines and find what they like
Shayne Hammond, viticulturist and co-founder of Poppies
Accompanying the wine and completing the experience is the picturesque venue set right in the heart of the vines, with the hills of the valley in the distance. The location evokes the heart of old Europe, complete with effortless elegance. On a warm day take a table outside, and when winter comes a cozy couch indoors is the place to be.
As a breeze rustles the leaves of the grapes, one of the friendly staff will deliver the wines and one of Poppies’ famous platters to your table. Snack on salted pork belly with pickled vegetables, salmon, Spanish tortilla, hummus, olive tapenade, cheese and more, as you sip your glass of riesling, pinot gris or chardonnay. Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options are available, but no matter your choice, you’re sure to have the simple and exquisite pleasure of excellent wine and food.
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