About Cambridge Road Vineyard
Cambridge Road Vineyard is a family-owned boutique winery and cellar door in south Martinborough, Wairarapa. Vigneron Lance Redgwell (with his family) farms roughly 12 hectares in the region (about 2 ha estate with the rest leased) under organic/biodynamic practice (www.williamscorner.com ). Their focus is on minimal-intervention natural wines – especially Pinot Noir, Syrah and aromatic whites – reflecting the Martinborough Terrace terroir (thegrapereset.com ) (www.williamscorner.com ). In fact, the original vines were planted in the mid-1980s, and Redgwell purchased the property in 2006 to pursue low-intervention winemaking (thegrapereset.com ) (www.williamscorner.com ). Since then Cambridge Road has gained a reputation as a leader in New Zealand’s “natural” wine movement (thegrapereset.com ). The aesthetic is rustic and welcoming: a cozy former cottage tasting room, casual bar, and an informal dining space. Signature touches include biodynamic farming (no chemical additives) and creative labelling like their Totara-aged Sauvignon Blanc. This little vineyard matters locally and internationally, offering regional wine lovers a genuine taste of Martinborough’s soil and climate (thegrapereset.com ) (www.williamscorner.com ).
Events and Programming
Cambridge Road isn’t a concert hall, but it’s lively with wine events. The cellar door hosts regular wine tastings and casual gatherings rather than formal shows. Visitors can drop in for tastings and platters most days (Fri–Sun hours, see below). The team also runs curated food & wine events: for example, Italian chef Attilio’s Kitchen comes every Saturday (around midday) with fresh pasta, gnocchi and Italian fare to match their wines (cambridgeroad.co.nz ) (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). In summer months they stage “Friday Night Sessions” – a relaxed happy hour with new-release wines, local beers and snacks, and often live acoustic music or sunset views (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). Several times a year Lance and friends organize communal dinners or release tastings in their indoor dining room; these are cosy, gourmet meals paired with Cambridge Road vintages. Following their newsletter or social media is the best way to catch announced events and theme dinners (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). (Pro tip: the winemaking club “Sanctum” gets first notice of special tastings and limited wine drops.)
Tickets and Booking
No advance ticketing is required for ordinary visits. The tasting room operates as a walk-in cellar door: you pay on arrival for any wine flights or glasses. As of 2023 the standard wine tasting fee is $20 NZD per person (this fee is waived if you buy three or more bottles) (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). You can then buy any glass or bottle to drink on site, or purchase wine to take away. For special events (like chef dinners or private group tastings), booking is recommended. Cambridge Road doesn’t have an official box office, so reservations are made directly through the venue. Typically one calls or emails the winery (contact details via their website) to reserve a table or winery tour. For VIP or group experiences, membership in the Sanctum wine club includes priority invitations and dedicated tastings (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). In general, drop-in tastings Fri–Sun are casual, but upscale dinners fill up fast – so join the mailing list or book early, especially for holiday weekends (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). The cellar door is popular on summer weekends, so planning ahead (and arriving by 2pm) can help avoid waits.
Seating and Layout
The physical layout of Cambridge Road Vineyard is intimate and simple. The historic cellar-door building is modest in size, with a low-beamed, timber-lined interior. Inside there is a small tasting bar and a handful of tables where guests sample wine. A separate “cosy dining room” adjoins it – essentially one roomy area with communal tables – used for the monthly chef-style dinners and group tastings (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). In good weather, outdoor tables may be set up on the lawn or under the vine trellis, but most seating is indoors. Since this is a boutique venue (category: cellar door, not large arena), all seats are on one level; there is no mezzanine or balcony. Sightlines are unrestricted from any table, and the acoustics are quiet unless a live acoustic act is playing. In short, think relaxed farm‐boutique style: wood benches and simple tables, warm lighting, and racks of bottles on display. The “best seats” are simply where food and wine are within easy reach – the head of the table or bar top – but there isn’t a front-row in a concert sense. Just grab a seat by the window or at a communal table and enjoy the sunset with a glass of wine.
Getting There and Parking
Cambridge Road Vineyard is located at 32 Cambridge Road in Martinborough (postcode 5711) (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). Martinborough Village (the town square) is a few blocks west, so the winery is effectively on the north edge of town. If driving, it’s easy to reach via State Highway 2 from Masterton or Featherston. From Wellington the trip is about 100 km (roughly 1.5 hours). The vineyard property has on-site parking for a few cars (gravel lot); street parking along Cambridge Road is also usually available and unrestricted. Parking is free, but remember Martinborough or Wairarapa roads can be narrow, so hoof it a short way if the lot is full. Public transit options are limited: the nearest bus stop is on the town square (served by Tranzit coaches on routes 200/366 from Masterton/Wellington), about a 5–10 minute walk from Cambridge Road. The Wairarapa Connection train runs to Masterton, where you can catch a bus to Martinborough square, then walk or taxi the rest. Taxis or rideshares (e.g. Uber from Wellington) will drop you off right at the entrance. In town, the Cambridge Road property is clearly signed from the main Martinborough grid – it’s a stone’s throw (300–400 m) north of the Post Office on Jellicoe Street. Walking is straightforward: from the Martinborough Village Square head north on Perry Street (or Jellicoe Street) and make the next left onto Cambridge Road. The vineyard entrance is there. If coming on foot, plan for uneven ground and gravel paths – flat-soled shoes are wise.
Inside the Venue
Expect a relaxed, friendly vibe inside. On arrival you’ll step into the tasting room where staff pour samples and answer questions. No formal security is visible – children and adults mix freely. If you order wine by the glass, the friendly hosts will verify you are over 18 (as required by law). The cellar door doubles as a shop: bottles, magnums and boxed sets of Cambridge Road wines line the walls to purchase. Food-wise, the venue offers locally sourced platters: cured meats, cheeses, olives and fresh bread (with vegetarian and vegan options) (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). These can be ordered to share with your tasting. During special events or weekends, there may be additional snacks or small plates on offer per the schedule. The beverage menu itself centers on Cambridge Road’s wine list plus a few other local choices – usually their own latest releases by the glass or bottle. Porter or cider isn’t typically on display (they focus on wine), but cold local beer is often available during social events. A coat or bag check is not formal, but space under tables is sufficient for bundles. Free Wi-Fi is not prominently advertised, but most cell networks (Vodafone/Spark) work in the room. Restrooms (flush toilets) are located just inside the main entrance. There is no big merchandise counter beyond the wine shelves – so the main souvenirs here are the wine bottles themselves. Overall, the atmosphere is homey and unhurried: take your time tasting, chatting, or lingering over a bottle of Pinot on the veranda during sunset.
Nearby Amenities
When visiting Cambridge Road, you’re only a short stroll from delightful Martinborough amenities. The village has a high concentration of cafes, restaurants and bars just 400–800 m away. For example, TŌHI Gin Room & Eatery (Thai and fusion cuisine) is only about 0.4 km south on Perry Street, and the well-known Tirohana Estate Restaurant (European-style dining) is roughly 0.5 km down Perry/Jellicoe (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Also nearby (within 0.5–1.0 km) are popular spots like Karahui Wine Bar, Neighbourhood Coffee House, Cafe Medici, Cool Change Bar & Eatery, Poppies Wine Bar and York Bistro (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). If you’re looking for lodging, many of Martinborough’s B&Bs and apartments line the central streets. Altitude Apartments, the Martinborough Hotel, the Station Hotel (with upstairs suites), and a range of motels are all within a 5–10 minute drive, centering around the village square. In short, any restaurant or accommodation in Martinborough is convenient to Cambridge Road – just plan a bit of walking time down the main cross-streets to reach them. (Pro tip: arrive in town earlier if dining out before or after—you’ll want to give chairs to winery research and enjoy the local nightlife, from craft beer bars to wine bars.)
What Makes This Venue Special
Cambridge Road stands out for its authentic, natural-wine ethos and personal touch. Architecturally it’s unpretentious – more farm shed than theatre – but its story and wines are memorable. Culturally, it helped spearhead Martinborough’s shift toward organic/biodynamic winemaking, long before it was fashionable. The flagship wines (Pinot and Syrah) and quirky bottlings like “The Naturalist” pétillant-naturel have built a loyal following of travelers and locals alike. In 2023 they even released “Crystal Veil,” a Sauvignon Blanc fermented in a special 90+-year-old tōtara barrel – a nod to NZ’s vinous heritage (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). Guests love Cambridge Road’s warm hospitality: you’re a friend sharing a table there, not just a face in a crowd. It hosts “grab a glass with strangers” summer evenings, as well as intimate tavern-style dinners that often sell out. The vineyard land itself has storybook scenery (rolling vines under big sky), and the wine philosophy (“leave the wine to the earth, and wine will lift you up”) resonates deeply. In short, what makes Cambridge Road special is its soul: it’s famous for being small-but-bold, embracing weird & wonderful wines, and bringing people together around a rustic table in the vines. Tastings feel personal and educational rather than rushed – a true neighborly experience in Wellington’s premier wine region (thegrapereset.com ) (www.williamscorner.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The cellar door and tasting area are all on one level, with step-free entry, so wheelchair access is generally good. (If you need assistance or have specific needs, it’s best to mention this when booking.) There is an accessible restroom on site as well. That said, outdoor areas and gravel parking may be uneven, so wear sturdy footwear if you’ll be outside. What to bring: Bring ID if you plan to taste or drink wine (NZ law requires 18+ for alcohol). A daypack with sunscreen/water is wise in summer – Martinborough sun can be intense and shade is limited at an outdoor table. (Layers are useful year-round; evenings can cool off quickly.) Most visitors dress very casually: think jeans or shorts and a polo/shirt. Since you might try many wines, it’s smart to eat a good meal beforehand and stay hydrated. If you plan to enjoy bottles on site, consider carpooling or hiring a driver. Facilities: Restrooms are near the entry; there is no coat check or cloakroom, so wear only what you’ll be comfortable keeping at your table. The venue has Wi-Fi, but cellular reception is generally reliable (Spark/Vodafone work fine). If you have heavy coats or umbrellas, tuck them at your table corner. Age and Pets: Children (under18) are welcome to explore the property but cannot taste wine, and there are no kid-specific activities. Pets are not permitted inside the tasting room (for hygiene), and service animals are the only exceptions indoors. (Animals should stay off the lawn to respect the harvest vines.) Food and Drink: Except for small sharing plates offered onsite, outside food or alcohol is not allowed. The vineyard prides itself on local produce pairings – try the meat/cheese platter or vegan board (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). They do not sell hard liquor, and the only beverages for purchase are their wine and perhaps local beer, juice or kombucha. Timing: Allow about an hour for a tasting and grazing; two hours if you plan to linger over a bottle or dinner. The busiest times are weekend afternoons, so for a quieter visit consider weekdays (if open) or early afternoons on weekends. During harvest season (Mar–Apr) the winery floor may break for picking grapes, but tastings typically continue. If weather is extreme (rain/wind), the tasting still goes on – most of the area is covered – but outdoor seating will be closed. Etiquette: No formal dress code – come as you are. Photography is fine (most people snap the cellar room and vines), but be mindful if staff are pouring. Slurp and swirl wine judiciously; New Zealand cellar doors tend to be informal and educational, but respect the pourer’s focus. Tips are not customary here. Saying kia ora/welcome to staff goes a long way in this friendly winery. Insider tip: If you love a particular wine, ask if they cellar or magnum-stock it – many tastings are waived once you buy wine, so it pays to try a little extra. Also, joining the Sanctum Wine Club (annual membership) gives you 20% off bottle purchases, plus invites to behind-the-scenes tastings with Lance (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). Finally, check the online shop for any special release or library wines, as they sometimes only allow purchase to members and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
Cambridge Road’s cellar door is open Fri–Sun in high season. Typical hours are about 11 am–5 pm on Fridays, 12 pm–5 pm on Saturdays, and 12 pm–3 pm on Sundays. (Mon–Thu visits can often be arranged by appointment.) To avoid crowds, visit early afternoon; summer evenings can be busy with special sessions. Note that hours may shrink in winter months, so check their website or social media for current days and hours.
How much does a wine tasting cost at Cambridge Road?
The standard tasting fee is $20 per person (in NZD), which covers a flight of samples from their current releases (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). Importantly, this $20 is refunded if you purchase three or more bottles during your visit. You can then continue to enjoy wine by the glass or bottle without an additional fee. No booking or ticket is required for a basic tasting; just walk in during open hours and let the host know you’d like to taste.
Do I need to book or buy tickets in advance? Can I book private events?
For casual wine tastings and platters, you usually do not need to book ahead – just drop by when the cellar door is open. However, for special events (chef dinners or group tastings) or if you are a large party, it’s wise to reserve in advance. Cambridge Road welcomes private functions (weddings, birthdays, corporate lunches) in their venue; these are arranged by contacting the winery directly. Check their website or social media for announcements, or join their mailing list to get early notice of limited tickets to themed events (cambridgeroad.co.nz ).
Where exactly is Cambridge Road Vineyard and what parking is available?
The address is 32 Cambridge Road, Martinborough (5711), just north of the village square (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). The entrance is obvious from the road. Free onsite parking is provided (gravel lot near the cellar door) plus street parking along Cambridge Road. The village center is only a 5–10 minute walk away, so if the lot is full it’s easy to park on Jellicoe or Perry Street. Disabled parking spaces are not marked, but the property is flat and close to the entrance. Rideshare drop-off can use the driveway gate (watch for vines overhanging).
Is Cambridge Road Vineyard wheelchair and child-friendly?
Yes. The tasting room and dining area are on one level with a wide entrance, making them accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. There are no steep steps indoors. The grounds are flat, and the restroom is wheelchair-accessible. Families with children are also welcome to visit; children can explore the lawn or pet the friendly dog on site, though of course only guests 18+ may taste or drink wine. The venue is casual, so you will see kids in jeans alongside adults. Just note that there’s no play area or kids’ menu – it’s primarily a wine experience.
Does Cambridge Road Vineyard host live music or concerts?
Cambridge Road does not routinely hold large concerts, but it does feature occasional live music during special events. For example, the Friday evening “sunset sessions” often include an acoustic performer or local musician for a laid-back ambiance (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). These are informal – think outdoor laneway tunes rather than a staged concert. The winery’s emphasis is on food & wine, so plan to enjoy the music as background. (If a big music event were scheduled, it would be advertised on their channels.)
Can I purchase wines by the glass or only by the bottle?
You can buy both. After paying your tasting fee, staff will pour samples or glasses of any wines on offer. You are welcome to continue drinking by the glass (usually a selection of currently open bottles) or buy a full bottle to share. The plating menu – cheeses/meats – is designed to go with either one. In other words, you’re not forced into bottle purchases; feel free to enjoy a single glass while relaxing on the lawn. If you do decide to open a bottle, they’ll pour it on site and waive the tasting fee.
Are outside food, drinks or picnics allowed?
No. Cambridge Road is a working winery that provides its own food pairings. Outside food or non-Cambridge Road alcohol is not permitted. Instead, enjoy the cheese/meat platters and local snacks they offer (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). This policy helps keep the experience safe and legal, and it supports local producers. If you have special dietary requirements, the staff can usually accommodate (they already note vegetarian/vegan options on their platters).
What is the Sanctum Wine Club and what are its perks?
The Sanctum Wine Club is Cambridge Road’s bottle subscription program for enthusiasts. Members receive quarterly curated shipments of special releases. Perks include 20% off on cellar-door purchases, “first dibs” on new vintages, and invitations to exclusive tastings. One unique benefit is an annual behind-the-scenes tour and tasting with Lance (for up to four people) (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). In short, it’s a way to ensure regular access to limited wines and privileged events. (Membership requires a minimum one-year subscription.)
Can I hire Cambridge Road Vineyard for a wedding or event?
Yes. Cambridge Road accepts private bookings for catered events on the property. The cozy indoor dining room and outdoor gardens can host small weddings, anniversary parties, corporate dinners, etc. (It’s an intimate space, so party sizes are modest.) They only do on-site catering – you don’t hire an outside caterer – but menus are customizable. To inquire, you would contact the winery’s event coordinator. The site suggests emailing or calling their sales team to discuss dates and fees, and they’ll arrange the details according to your needs (cambridgeroad.co.nz ).
What is Christian to the Crystal Veil wine?
“Crystal Veil” is Cambridge Road’s special Sauvignon Blanc release. For the 2023 vintage, they fermented it in a rare 90+-year-old tōtara cask – an extraordinary heirloom vessel made from native New Zealand timber (cambridgeroad.co.nz ). The outcome is a unique wine that captures both a pure Martinborough SB character and a hint of old-world barrel aging. It was produced in limited quantities. If visiting when it’s out, it’s worth tasting or buying as a novel imprint of the vineyard’s heritage craft.
