New Zealand’s largest wine region, Marlborough is located at the north-eastern tip of the South Island. It stretches from the small port town of Picton in the Marlborough Sounds, to the east coast whale-watching town of Kaikoura. The long straight Wairau Valley has the most extensive plantings of vines. This young wine region has won worldwide acclaim for Sauvignon Blanc. Plenty of sunshine with cool nights and a long growing season helps to promote the vibrant fruit flavors for which this region is renowned. Sauvignon Blanc has become New Zealand’s most important export wine, producing feisty, pungent, dry white wines of consistent quality.
Because of the unique terroir, many other varieties flourish here, including the white varieties Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris. Riesling produces stunning dry whites but also excellent sweet wines when climatic conditions allow. In recent years, Pinot Noir vines have matured enhancing the reputation of these often elegant, fruity, red table wines. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay also make quality, dry sparkling wines.
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