 New Zealand's Information Network has provided
this summary of the main wine growing regions and local vineyard
trails as a guide for the visiting wine enthusiast.
For a small country on the Pacific Rim, New Zealand is having a
remarkable impact on the world wine scene. Missionaries planted
our first vines as early as 1819, but only in the last two
decades have we seen this country develop into one of the most
consistent fine wine producers in the world. New Zealand has
13,000 hectares planted in vines, and over 480 wine producing
companies. The principal white varieties are Chardonnay,
Sauvignon Blanc, Muller Thurgau and Riesling. The main reds are
Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Our
Sauvignon Blanc is considered by many European wine critics to be
the best in the world.
 New Zealand’s 15 major wine growing regions fall between the
35th and 45th parallels of latitude, which is comparable with the
wine growing areas of Europe. They extend some 1,500 kms from
Northland to Central Otago, the southernmost cool-climate region
in the world. Each region has its own unique mix of climate,
terrain, soils and wine styles. Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay and
Gisborne have only one third of the wineries but produce 90% of
the national grape harvest. Other regions have many family-owned
boutique wineries specialising in top quality individual styles.
Vineyards are often clustered together in one area, which means
the traveller can enjoy a variety of cellar door sales and
tastings.
 Touring New Zealand wine regions is a
marvellous way to explore the country, meet the Kiwis and
experience our way of life. Anyone with a love of fine food and
quality wines can take a pleasant gastronomic journey through New
Zealand’s heartland. Tasting wines at the vineyard where
they have been handcrafted is a unique experience.
All of the regions offer the visitor stunning scenery,
recreational activities and fine Pacific Rim cuisine to
complement our wines. You will find that the vineyards have lots
of rustic charm, and great hospitality. So here’s to your
personal voyage of discovery through New Zealand’s wine
regions.
Bon Appetit!
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