Wine Guides & Tips

Winter moments, perfectly paired with Villa Maria

Published 4 July 2025

Winter invites us to slow down and savour the simple things - shared meals, quiet evenings, and comfort in all its forms. Our wines pair perfectly with winter’s comforting rituals.

Private Bin Pinot Gris

Games Night

When the competitive spirit is high and the conversation is flowing, you need a wine that’s lively, versatile, and just a little bit unexpected.

 

Our Private Bin Riesling brings citrus, honeysuckle and stone fruit together in a beautifully balanced wine, with a touch of natural sweetness. It’s a wine that plays well with salty snacks, spicy bites and those long, laughter-filled game nights that stretch past bedtime. 

Private Bin Pinot Noir

Pot Luck Dinner

There’s something joyful about a pot luck and coming together over great food and company.

 

Our Pinot Noir is the ideal match: approachable but elegant, with vibrant red berry flavours, soft tannins and just a hint of spice. Sourced from select vineyards in Marlborough, this Pinot pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, from roasted vegetables and curries to pies and slow-cooked meats. 

Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

Date Night In

For those nights when the world fades and it’s just the two of you – whether it’s a home-cooked dinner or your favourite takeaway – pour something special.

 

Our Reserve Cabernet Merlot is a sophisticated expression of Hawkes Bay terroir, with layers of dark plum, cassis and complex dried herbs. Pair with slow cooked beef or a rich mushroom risotto, or simply enjoyed on its own while the candles flicker.

Reserve Chardonnay

A Book and You

Some of the best evenings are the quiet ones. A good book, a warm blanket, and a glass of something delicious.

 

Our Reserve Chardonnay is a rich, beautifully structured wine from Hawkes Bay, with notes of ripe stone fruit, roasted nuts and subtle oak spice. The creamy texture and long finish make it a luxurious match for curling up with a book and enjoying a rewarding moment to yourself.