The Wallingford Culinary Experience is set in a grand, remote homestead in Central Hawke’s Bay – a hidden sanctuary that feels worlds away from the everyday. With an expansive garden, on-site truffle grove, and award-winning Chef Christopher Stockdale, guests at Wallingford are welcomed into a deeply personal experience in the historic “great old dame”.
The nine-course seasonal degustation is a true culinary journey. Each course is meticulously crafted with ingredients from the estate, from neighbouring farms, and from the region’s finest suppliers. .Every element on the plate speaks to the richness of Hawke’s Bay and the passion of its artisan producers – seasonal, local, and exquisitely executed. The wine pairing is inspired by the Great Wine Capitals of the world with varietals chosen for their stories, character, and sense of place. With each introduction of dish and wine, guests gain insight into the region, its diverse landscapes, producers, and its history. It’s a storytelling tool that enhances every dish – with Jeanette Woerner’s knowledge warmly but gently imparted.
Worldly yet grounded, elegant yet deeply personal, the Wallingford experience is an immersive celebration of place, story, and sensory delight – where every detail, from the wine and the food to the music to the setting, is carefully curated to transport, enchant, and linger in your memory. It is a celebration of provenance, passion, and the art of slowing down in style.