New Zealand has over 10 significant wine-growing regions, including Canterbury, home of our Mt. Beautiful winery in the Cheviot Hills. Slightly off the beaten path on the South Island surrounded by grassy plains, clear lakes and snow-capped mountains, the crisp climate of Canterbury makes for good Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
Northland: The country’s warmest ripening conditions make Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay the varieties of choice.
Auckland: Look for superb Chardonnays, particularly from Waiheke Island, but Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are also popular. Matakana, north of Auckland, produces Merlot, Syrah (Shiraz), Chardonnay and Pinot Gris.
Bay of Plenty: A small but growing wine-producing region with an emphasis on Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.
Gisborne: The Chardonnay capital of NZ consistently produces delicious examples of this popular wine.
Hawke’s Bay: This region has one of the longest traditions of wine making in NZ. Local Chardonnays are stunning, as are the reds. Look for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Pinot Noir.
Wairarapa: This small but significant wine-growing area produces premium examples of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris.
Marlborough: Many consider this the Sauvignon Blanc capital of the world – hot, sunny days and crisp nights intensify flavour. The region also produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling, and is developing a reputation for Méthode Traditionelle sparkling wines.
Nelson: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Noir are best suited to this region’s cooler growing conditions.
Canterbury: The crisp climate makes for good Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
Central Otago: Home to some of the southernmost vineyards in the world, here the emphasis is on Pinot Noir, with some Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling also produced.
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