Wine Regions
New Zealand is a small country with a lot of wine regions. The most famous of these regions are:
- Central Otago
- Canterbury
- Waipara
- Nelson
- Marlborough
- Martinborough
- Hawke's Bay
- Gisborne
- Waikato
- Auckland
- Northland
Marlborough
Marlborough is the largest wine region in New Zealand, and is most famous for its Sauvignon Blanc. It is located on the northern tip of the South Island. About 70% of New Zealand's wine is produced here.
Central Otago
Central Otago is the southernmost wine region in the world, and is known for its Pinot Noir. The region is located in the southern half of the South Island.
Hawke's Bay
Hawke's Bay is the oldest wine region in New Zealand, and is known for its Bordeaux-style red blends. The region is located on the eastern coast of the North Island.
Waipara
Waipara is a small wine region in the Canterbury region, and is known for its Riesling and Pinot Noir. The region is located on the eastern coast of the South Island.
Wine Styles
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is the most widely planted grape in New Zealand, and is known for its crisp acidity and tropical fruit flavors. The grape is grown in most of the wine regions in New Zealand, but is most famous in Marlborough. About 71% of New Zealand's wine production is Sauvignon Blanc.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is the second most widely planted grape in New Zealand, and is known for its earthy flavors and tannins. The grape is grown in most of the wine regions in New Zealand, but is most famous in Central Otago.
Riesling
Riesling is the third most widely planted grape in New Zealand, and is known for its floral aromas and high acidity. The grape is grown in most of the wine regions in New Zealand, but is most famous in Waipara.
Wine Trends
New Zealand is known for its sustainable wine practices. Many vineyards have undergone the process of getting biodynamic certified and many produce organic wines. New Zealand also has a national certification program, "Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand" (SWNZ), which promotes sustainable practices. Additionally, there are many vineyards owned and operated by native Maori.