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Cool, Crisp & Intense
New Zealand is a relatively new wine producing nation that gained international attention in the 1990’s. Most areas of the country are not more than 80km away from the coast. It is surrounded by cold ocean waters, heavily influencing the climate. This creates conditions ideal for aromatic, crisp and intense Sauvignon Blancs, a style dominates the New Zealand wine industry. Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir are emerging varietals in New Zealand.
Notable Regions
Marlborough
This is the largest and best known wine region in New Zealand. Wines based on the region’s most planted variety, Sauvignon Blanc, drew international attention to wines from New Zealand. A small amount of Pinot Noir is also produced here.
Hawkes Bay
This is New Zealand’s second largest wine region after Marlborough. This region produces an array of different grape varieties but is best known for the production of red Bordeaux blends as well as red varietal wines.
Nelson
A small wine producing region located on the Northwest coast of the South Island. Sauvignon Blanc, along with Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir are produced here.
Central Otago
Located inland, this is New Zealand's most southern wine region. Central Otago's hot summers, mountainous terrain, and limited rainfall product unique and intense Pinot Noirs.
Key Varietals
Sauvignon Blanc
The New Zealand expression of this grape varietal has a massive taste appeal worldwide. Aromatic, crisp, tart and very fresh tasting. Flavourful with notes of gooseberry and pink grapefruit.
Food pairing: Pairs well with fresh garden salads, Pasta Primavera or cheeses such as Gouda.
Pinot Gris
New Zealand Pinot Gris tends to be flavourful with noticeable notes of apple and pear.
Food pairing: Pairs well with roast pork, creamy pasta dishes, quiche, shrimp and scallops.
Chardonnay
New Zealand Chardonnay tends to be very refreshing with noticeable acidity and fruity, green apple notes.
Food pairing: Pairs well with mushroom risottos, oven roasted poultry, Caesar salads, chicken salads.
Pinot Noir
New Zealand Pinot Noir tends to be very stylish, vibrant and fruit forward with typical notes of raspberry, strawberry and plum. When produced in Central Otago Pinot Noirs are more intense with deeper flavours.
Food pairing: Pairs well with grilled salmon, pork, chicken dishes, pastas dishes with marinara sauce.
Did you know?
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine region, accounting for two – thirds of the national total.
The Sauvignon Blanc grape variety for which New Zealand is renowned for was first commercially planted in the 1970’s.
Pinot Noir is New Zealand’s most planted red grape varietal.
