This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Marlborough’s new wine tourism destination, Wine + Food Experience Marlborough, officially opened in Blenheim’s riverside precinct on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
Mayor of Marlborough Nadine Taylor cut the ribbon before more than 100 invited guests.
The refurbished venue brings together more than 50 local wineries and food producers under one roof. Wine + Food offers visitors personalised wine tastings through innovative WineEmotion dispensers, intimate cellar door experiences, and regional food, cheese and seafood.
Wine + Food Experience Marlborough managing director Lenny O’Connell says the venue enhances, rather than replaces, the cellar door journey.
“Wine + Food ensures visitors to Marlborough who are short on time do not miss tasting the expertly crafted premium wine unique to our region. We have designed Wine + Food to be a place where locals, businesses and visitors come together to experience the region’s finest – from wines and seasonal cuisine to thoughtfully curated tastings and special events,” says Lenny.
The venue introduces a personalised wine dispensing system where guests receive a WineEmotion card to sample wines at their preferred quantity and pace. Digital display units showcase wineries’ brand stories and tasting notes.
Christchurch artists Steve Trevella and Rose McKenzie created a hanging sculpture for the foyer, depicting copper and stainless-steel vines with golden grapes.
With capacity for up to 420 guests, Wine + Food features private event spaces, tasting rooms, and a sheltered outdoor terrace overlooking the Taylor River and Richmond Ranges. The venue is expected to become a go-to destination for pre- and post-show dining for events at the neighbouring ASB Theatre.
“We’re proud to breathe new life into the former Clubs of Marlborough building. The Wine + Food Experience will soon be complemented by an adjoining restaurant offering lunch and dinner service,” says Lenny.
Guests can also enjoy beer, gin and whiskey tastings, as well as platters featuring cheeses, charcuterie, preserves and Marlborough seafood.
The venue is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm.
Wine + Food showcases award-winning producers, including Isabel Estate’s Wild Barrique Chardonnay 2022, Jackson Estate’s Botrytis Riesling, and Te Whare Ra Single Vineyard 5182 Rosé.
“Whether visiting Marlborough for the first time or returning to discover more, Wine + Food offers a new way to experience the region’s producers in a welcoming space, in any weather,” says Lenny.
