SOHO Family Vineyards is formally opening its cellar door on Friday, 24 October, 2025.
Located in Onetangi Valley and surrounded by lush greenery with a sprawling grass lawn, the cellar door is a laid-back island destination that highlights SOHO’s wines.
Run by Colorado native, Kate Francis, the industrial-inspired venue combines wine, food, nature, street art and music.
SOHO Family Vineyard’s Black Collection wines are served alongside handmade corn tacos and Mexican street food by Waiheke-based chef Joel Larson, known for his popular Tacos y Masa food truck.
The site has a relaxed atmosphere and is family-friendly, with lawn games and space for more than 100 guests.
It’s a place SOHO founder Rachael Carter says was always intended to feel unique and unforgettable.
“Opening the cellar door felt like the natural next step for us. We’ve created a hidden gem that people can find and stay for hours, enjoying what SOHO is all about,” she says.
“It’s about more than just wine, it’s about sharing good food and moments we hope stay with people long after they leave.”
Rachael founded SOHO Family Vineyards in 2009 with the vision to create a boutique wine brand that broke with convention and would be served in the best bars and restaurants around the world.
Today, that vision has grown into a premium label, sourcing fruit from the Carter family vineyards on Waiheke, Marlborough and Central Otago.
With winemakers Pete Turner (Waiheke and Marlborough) and Matt Connell (Central Otago) at the helm, SOHO produces wines that capture each region’s unique personality and terroir.
The winery embraces sustainable, low-intervention practices, and its contemporary branding has become synonymous with bold wines and modern style.
“SOHO is a reflection of life and the amazing people and pets we share it with,” says Carter. “This cellar door is the next step in sharing that with others.”
After soft launching last summer as a pop-up, Friday 24 October marks the cellar door’s official opening this year.
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