Each winery will offer between 4-7 wines for a tasting split between reds and whites. Chardonnay is the dominant white wine variety produced in Hawkes Bay, but lovers of Sauvignon Blanc should not worry, as you'll also be tasting that at Mission Estate. Shiraz and Bordeaux blends are some of the dominant red varieties. The first estate winery you'll visit is Mission Estate, which was established in 1851. The tasting hall and associated restaurant are located in a two-story Victorian mansion that offers magnificent views over the vineyards. Next, visit the French-owned Church Road Winery. Again, this is located in a magnificent building, which has been built to look like an old French barn. They produce a huge number of bottles annually. which are mostly consumed in New Zealand. The next stop is the Urban Winery, located in the National Tobacco building, which is famous for it's art nouveau architecture. This is a seated tasting followed by a guided tour of their barrel hall and their amazing 'Golden Egg'. An explanation of the principals of wine fermentation will be included. Then, take a 15-minute drive past the orchards and vineyards of Esk Valley, arriving at Linden Estate. Linden produces only 60,000 bottles of wine split between 13 different varietals. This will be a seated tasting with a complimentary cheese board of New Zealand cheeses. Afterwards, you'll travel back to Napier, arriving back at your lodgings or pick-up point around 5:30 PM.