Wedged between mountain ranges and the ocean in a corner of Marlborough lies the Wairau Valley, where a vast expanse of vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.

Here you’ll find Ara, a winery that prides itself on growing all the grapes used in its Single Estate wines in the same area. This means that when you open a bottle of Ara Single Estate wine, you’re literally drinking in the flavours of this little spot of heaven.

Here's why we love these intensely flavoursome wines – plus some great food match ideas for tonight's dinner.

Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc

Winner of numerous gold medals globally, this sauvignon is often described as “elegant” thanks to its expertly restrained flavours. You’ll taste stonefruits, minerals and grapefruit all of which are perfectly pitched not to overshout each other.

Serving suggestion: when in season, it doesn’t get more perfect than a pile of whitebait fritters and lemon

Ara Single Estate Chardonnay

Imagine eating ripe fruits by candlelight at the foot of a mountain and you’re close to picturing this tasty wine. Citrus and grapefruit peal mix with stonefruits, flint and struck match (yes!) for a delicious wine that lingers on the tongue.

Serving suggestion: antipasto platter

Ara Single Estate Pinot Gris

Delicate rather than shouty, this pinot gris bottles flavours of pear, nectarine and honeyed flowers, with light citrus notes to keep things deliciously fresh.

Serving suggestion: mussels with chorizo

Ara Single Estate Rosé

A whole lot of tastiness is going on in this bottle. Described as “delicate yet opulent”, it’s an off-dry rosé which means it’s neither too sweet nor too tangy. Inside you’ll find sparkling raspberry flavours matched with strawberries and cream. Grab a spoon!

Serving suggestion: seafood platter

Ara Single Estate Pinot Noir

With a complex hit of dark raspberry and boysenberry sliced through with savoury herbal notes and robust tannins, it’s no wonder this is a much-awarded pinot noir. It certainly gets our vote.

Serving suggestion: lamb cutlets