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New Zealand

The country that redefined Sauvignon Blanc in a single generation.

Wine history

Commercial wine began slowly in the nineteenth century, but everything changed in 1973 when the first Sauvignon Blanc vines were planted in Marlborough. By the 1980s its explosive aromatics were a global phenomenon, and Central Otago has since made New Zealand a serious Pinot Noir country too.

Major Wine Regions

  • Marlborough
  • Central Otago
  • Hawke's Bay
  • Martinborough
  • Nelson

Important Grape Varieties

  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Pinot Noir
  • Chardonnay
  • Pinot Gris
  • Syrah

Major Wine Styles

  • Pungent Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
  • Perfumed Central Otago Pinot Noir
  • Cool-climate Hawke's Bay Syrah

Food Pairings

  • Green-lipped mussels
  • Goat cheese salad
  • Lamb rack
  • Salmon
  • Asparagus

Notable wines

  • Cloudy Bay Te Koko
  • Felton Road Block 5 Pinot Noir
  • Craggy Range Le Sol

Recognisable brands

  • Cloudy Bay
  • Villa Maria
  • Oyster Bay
  • Kim Crawford
  • Felton Road