Fresh Changes Ahead

New name, new menu, new manager - November is seeing some significant changes at The Winery Riverlands, formerly known as Montana Winery.  You may notice the signage changes taking place on State Highway One at Riverlands as this restaurant and function centre undergoes its name change, but more importantly, are the changes going on inside the venue.

Located next to Pernod Ricard winery, the facility was one of Marlborough’s earliest wineries under the Montana name and enjoys iconic status in the region.  It is increasingly recognised not only as a suburb venue for casual dining and beautiful weddings, but also as a premier event venue for the conference and incentive group markets.

The meeting and dining spaces are managed by Continental, the South Island’s premium event catering specialists.  Continental has appointed Justine Hunter as the venue manager and she has been overseeing the implementation of the fresh look to the presentation of the restaurant in signage, waiters uniforms, wine-lists and menus.

The Winery Riverlands has reintroduced a Birthday Club, allowing Members to celebrate with a free meal when dining with three of more of their friends during the month of their birthday.  “This has proven a very popular, says Justine, and we have realised that our restaurant is a favourite for family celebrations and special occasions.”

“When Continental took over the management some two years ago we quickly took it to seven-day dining,” said Greg Ward, managing director of Continental.  “Travellers, holiday makers and locals expected this type of service and  today we have established ourselves with a reputation as one of the regions leading winery restaurants”.

“While the restaurant can be quite cosy, if we open it right up we can seat 130 people and still have room for a dance floor.  We have additional seating for dining in the restaurant garden, and a really fun, themed and fully fenced children’s play area – for that extra peace of mind for parents” says Greg.

The stylish and innovative cuisine is overseen by Head Chef Julie Robinson and the talented kitchen team uses predominantly Marlborough produce to create delicious cuisine, designed to complement Pernod Ricard New Zealand wines. 

“There’s a natural exuberance with the fresh changes and Chef Julie has interpreted that in the menus!”   Signature dishes include the Tapas Trio, Pork Belly and the Lemon Curd Tart with raspberry sorbet and sticky orange and mint salad.  Also the renowned Brunch menu has now been extended from being just available on weekends, to being served daily between 10.00am and 12noon.

A facility of considerable aesthetic appeal, the winery is also the largest winery venue in the Marlborough region, offering a range of meeting and celebratory spaces ideal for planning sessions, meetings, conferences, team building, incentives, special occasions and product launches.