Realising a Dream

Tony Bish’s journey is a story as old as time, a young university dropout who, in pursuit of life’s adventures, stumbles upon a profound ppassion. Initially, working in the wine industry was a means to finance his love for skiing, but little did he know that this foray into the  world of wine would become his life’s calling. As Tony’s fascination with winemaking grew, so did his expertise, evolving into a story of  innovation and dedication.

Fast forward to today, and Tony Bish’s cellar door ‘The Urban Winery’ epitomizes the evolution taking place in the New Zealand wine  industry. Here, Tony is rewriting the Chardonnay narrative, skillfully utilizing contemporary techniques, including concrete eggs, with the  classic approach of crafting rich, oak-kissed Chardonnays.

In 2016, when Tony unveiled The Urban Winery, his hope was that his children would be inspired to join the business, and five years later,  that dream has materialized. Realising a Dream Eldest son Oscar Bish has stepped into the role of assistant winemaker. Meanwhile, youngest  daughter Genevieve injects youthful vibrancy into sales and marketing, together they are adding a fresh perspective to the winery’s  future.

Napier, often hailed as the “Art Deco capital of the world,” is a city steeped in history, reborn from the ashes of the 1931 earthquake. It’s here,  amidst this historic backdrop, that The Urban Winery finds its home. Housed in the iconic 1932 art deco building that once belonged to The Rothmans National Tobacco Company, seamlessly blending the elegance of the past with the innovation of the present.

This summer, as the sun graces Napier’s streets, consider an excursion to The Urban Winery. Indulge in the Chardonnay tasting flight—a  remarkable experience that may challenge your preconceptions of this varietal. For just $12, you could discover a newfound appreciation for  Chardonnay.