Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Archangel Wine is set back from the main road in amongst the dusty hot Central Otago vineyards. A stunning destination to sit, sip and experience one of the smaller but no less mightier wineries producing some of the best Pinot Noir (in my experience) around. A gorgeous weekday afternoon and we settled back to hear the stories. And oh what stories there were.

“Archangel is a true story of hope, love and survival. Destiny at work. It begins in 1940 with two young girls, Stefania and Halina. Forced from their homes in war-torn Poland, the girls find themselves in a labour camp in Arkhangel’sk, Siberia. Though they had not yet met, they begin a courageous journey to freedom. A parallel journey that takes them across many continents, where they encounter similar experiences of displacement and despair, as well as unexpected acts of kindness and compassion.” (taken from the Archangel website)

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

We were met by Mary and Zenek Zurakowski, a gorgeous mother : son combo on this hot windy afternoon where we heard the stories of the family and how they came to be set up here, in Central, producing some of the most amazing wines this side of the earth (and now world) has seen. Archangel Wine boasts Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and two delicious Rieslings all ripe and ready for the tasting.

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

We settled in to sample a selection of beautiful wines from their cabinet. Two delicious Rieslings named after family one sweet, one, a drier drop. Both delicious.

My favourite the Pinot Noir. I’ve tried a few, believe me. A few awful, alot amazing (I mean look where we live people) but this one blew off my socks (and I’m sure I came out in flip flops) but I had to take a bottle home to remember the taste later.

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Meeting Mary and Zenek I was able to understand more about the family connections here at the Vineyard. The historical tapestry woven through the wines, the stories is so important here as is the beautiful art on display throughout the building. Mary is extremely passionate that the two work in sync with each other and I have to agree. Art and wine lay out for all to peruse. Not a wine lover? There’s beautiful art and land to wander through.

All are catered for.

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Archangel Wines are doing amazing things out there. Well worth a drive out from Queenstown (hour and ten) or Wanaka (15 mins). Beautiful stories, delicious wines and so many things in the pipeline. Art shows, gorgeous opportunities for hen gatherings, parties and a wonderful place to spend the afternoon sipping and sampling their delicious platters. All filled with local produce, cheeses and charcuterie.

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Stories and Wine with Archangel Wines

Archangel Wines and I will be working together in the future I can feel it in my Pinot Noir.

Archangel Wines
68 Queensberry Terrace
Queensberry
Central Otago


I was a guest at Archangel Wines but as always my views are my own.