Mora Wines and Artisan Kitchen

“Mora” means to linger or pause in Latin, and believe us – this is the place to do just that. Tucked away just outside of Arrowtown, this quaint cellar door and artisan kitchen opens out into a lush garden and cottage setting that may require a few pinches to believe.

With vineyards spanning across 90 hectares in the renowned Bannockburn and Pisa subregions of Central Otago, this family-owned winery is steadfast in their commitment to producing world-class wines that beautifully capture the essence of this unique landscape. Mora stands as the flagship wine brand, meticulously crafted in limited quantities and sold exclusively from the winery. Providing a more accessible avenue for those who want to celebrate every day, RUA is particularly loved for its pinot noir that, amongst other varietals, can be found in local supermarkets and abroad. 

If you have a bottle of either on your own shelf, lucky you. However, the best way to enjoy these drops is at their idyllic home in Arrowtown, through a guided tasting experience or paired with a restaurant lunch. Which brings us to the food, glorious food.

The smells wafting from the kitchen will send you into a trance, as Owner and Executive Chef John Pickens and his crew transform sustainably sourced South Island ingredients into culinary wonders. Brunch offerings have a rustic simplicity but with plenty of intrigue, featuring apple cider sausages, brioche french toast, and Mt Cook salmon. Come lunchtime, nature’s most luxurious offerings grace the table, boasting plates of oysters, braised beef cheeks, artisan platters, and more, all designed to be shared with cherished company.

With a heated outdoor area enveloped by flourishing garden beds and magnificent willows, as well as plenty of cosy indoor nooks, Mora Wines and Artisan Kitchen offers a special place to gather, pause, and enjoy phenomenal food, wine and service. Pro tip: there’s a bus stop right outside to transport you there and back.