A brief history of the vineyard
Since the early 1990s, New Zealand has become famous for its fresh, fruity Sauvignon Blanc – a style that has inspired many winemakers around the world.
In just a few years, New Zealand has earned a reputation for excellence, notably with the production of superior quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and “Bordeaux” blends.
New Zealand wines internationally are a success story.
Only introduced in the 19th century, the New Zealand vine made its debut under the influence of Australian winegrowers, and French, Spanish and Italian settlers…
But until the beginning of the 20th century, its wine production was quite tiny.
But in the 1990’s, the Prohibition ban was lifted, and the country began to produce wines on a larger scale. And as New Zealand benefits from quite ideal climatic and geological conditions for viticulture, it was a success !.. Led by people’s efforts and spirit of initiative.
Extent of the vineyard
The New Zealand vineyard extends over 40,000 hectares (2021).
The country is the 16th largest wine producer in the world.
The main wine regions are
New Zealand has two main islands.
Located between latitudes 34 to 47 degrees south, a world separates the climatic conditions of the North Island, warmer even semi-tropical in the far north, and the South Island, with a cooler climate, and harsh winters in the far south.
In the North the main wine regions are Northland, Auckland, Gisborne and Hawke’s bay, Wairarapa, Martinborough.
In the South, the main wine regions are Marlborough (the largest in the country), Nelson, Canterbury, Central Otago (the southernmost in the world).
Typical grape varieties and wines
In the North or South of the country, winemakers mainly grow Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling, Gewurztraminer for the white grape varieties.
In the North, due to a warmer climate, Chardonnay often gives off exotic and fruity aromas. Those from Hawke’s Bay in particular are opulent. Sauvignon is also fruitier and more aromatic.
In the South, on the other hand, wines give off a more lively acidity, with some amazing fruitiness still.
For the red grape varieties, New Zealand is the land of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a bit of Syrah.
