Under the Vines: Series 2 DVD Review
There are some television shows that feel like comfort food. You know exactly what you’re getting, but that’s part of the appeal. Under the Vines is one of those shows. Returning for a second season, the New Zealand comedy-drama once again invites us in to the picturesque Oakley Wines vineyard, where romance, rivalry, and plenty of wine-fuelled drama are always on the menu.
If your fingers are sore from hanging off that cliff Series 1 left you on, relax, Series 2 builds and delivers six episodes packed with warmth, humour, and character development. While it never aims to reinvent the wheel, it understands exactly what makes it enjoyable and leans into those strengths.
Rebecca Gibney and Charles Edwards remain the heart of the Series as Daisy Monroe and Louis Oakley, two unlikely vineyard owners whose growing feelings for one another continue to simmer beneath the surface. Unfortunately for those of us hoping for a straightforward romance, life has other plans. Louis is still wrestling with his complicated marriage, while Daisy finds herself drawn towards local “Doctor David”, adding a hint of love triangle to the already interesting relationship.
What makes Under the Vines work so well is its ensemble cast. The supporting characters are well fleshed out. Whether it’s Tippy’s struggles as a winemaker, Griff and Gus navigating their relationship and his viral fame, or Marissa’s latest schemes to undermine Oakley Wines, everyone is given meaningful moments that help make Peak View feel like a living, breathing community. And of course, Morag’s fantastic B&B is in the mix too, the fact a character who appears in 1 episode per series is so memorable is a perfect example of the great writing on this show. As is “This is nothing like Downton Abbey” spoken by Michael Gregson, sorry, Louis.
Visually, the series continues to be a showcase for New Zealand’s wine country. The sweeping vineyard landscapes and small-town charm provide a beautiful backdrop. It’s easy to understand why, even though I don’t drink, I could see myself spending a weekend wandering around Oakley Wines with a glass of Pinot Noir in hand. I did however feel the first series looked a tad flat like it had been shot in LOG and never colour graded. The second series improves but I still feel it looks slightly washed out, almost sepia toned. Maybe it adds to the overall vibe, who knows?
The pacing remains deliberately relaxed, which won’t be for everyone. This isn’t a high-stakes thriller or a fast-moving drama. Instead, Under the Vines prefers to take its time, allowing relationships and conflicts to develop naturally. Fortunately, the chemistry between the cast ensures that even the quieter moments remain engaging. The “will they, won’t they?” dynamic between Daisy and Louis continues to provide much of the show’s emotional pull, and the writers know exactly how to keep viewers invested without becoming frustrating.
For those looking at the DVD release itself, Acorn Media’s presentation is straightforward. The two-disc set contains all six episodes from Series 2, running for approximately 360 minutes. While special features are limited to a Daisy & Louis Featurette and a Gus & Tippy Featurette, the real attraction here is simply having another helping of this charming drama available to enjoy at your leisure. The DVD arrives in the UK on 15 June 2026 and carries a 12 certificate.
Under the Vines: Series 2 doesn’t attempt to dramatically change the formula that made the first season successful, but it doesn’t need to. Charming performances, gorgeous scenery, engaging character dynamics, Turkeys, Special brownies and a healthy dose of romance make this another enjoyable visit to Oakley Wines. If you’re looking for an easy-going drama with plenty of heart, this is a vintage well worth sampling.
The Acorn TV Original has charmed audiences since its premiere in 2021 and now, fans can enjoy more time Under the Vines as Series 2 is set to arrive on DVD and digital 15 June, courtesy of Acorn Media International
