40 - New Zealand Flashcards
Describe the climate of New Zealand?
An isolated location in the Pacific Ocean, 1900 km away from Australia, its closest neighbour, it experiences a maritime climate overall.The South Islands climate is cool, whereas that of the North Island is a little warmer. The combo of long sunshine hours, nights cooled by sea breezes and a long ripening period allows grapes to reach high levels of sugar and flavour ripeness while retaining acidity. Vineyards of the South island tend to be located on the east and are protected by by the mountains in the centre of the island.
What weather hazards are common in New Zealand?
Many vineyard areas still receive plentiful rainfall despite the mountain protection, which can be problematic during ripening. Fortunately soils tend to be free draining, and so do not experience water-logging. However those on flat land can be overly fertile, leading to excessive shoot and leaf growth.
Due to their problems with vine vigour, New Zealand viticulturists have become experts?
Trellising and other canopy management techniques.
The New Zealand winemaking industry is committed to reducing the environmental impact of the vineyard management and winery practices. Which initiative sets these winery standards?
Winegrowing New Zealand.
What are the dominant varieties in New Zealand?
Sauvignon Blanc are the dominant white varietals, although Riesling, Gewurtztraminer, Pinot Gris and other aromatic styles are being pushed. Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are the dominant reds.
Describe the common profile of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc?
Since the 1990’s, NZ’s flagship grape, it accounts for the majority of wine production. it’s pungent aromas, intense flavours of elderflower and passion fruit, and high acidity have set a benchmark around the world.
What are the subtle difference between Sauvignon Blanc from the North and South Islands of NZ?
The warmer North produces wines with more tropical flavours, whereas the South creates wines with high acidity and flavours of green bell pepper and gooseberry. Some producers also make oak matured styles as a point of difference.
Describe the common profile of Chardonnay from New Zealand?
As with this varietal a number of winemaking techniques may be explored and thus great diversity. However generally they tend to be led by concentrated citrus and tropical fruits with subtle hints of toast and sweet spice from French oak.
Why are the aromatic varieties of Riesling and Gewurtztraminer, and the semi aromatic variety of Pinot gris becoming popular?
Dry autumns and cool night temperatures ensure aromatic compounds have plenty of time to develop before the grapes are harvested. Wines range from dry to sweet, however off-dry tends to be the most prevalent.
Describe the common profile of Pinot Noir in New Zealand?
The second most planted grape in NZ after Sauvignon Blanc. It’s widely grown in the South Island and within a few selected sites in the North. Overall profile is one of vibrant fruit, fine ripe tannins, soft texture and often quire high levels of alcohol. Distinct regional styles hav e emerged.
What is the second most volume of red wine produced in NZ?
Merlot. Cabernet sauvignon is often blended to add tannin and notes of cassis, making a bordeaux style blend. Like all wines from New Zealand, all of these blends are noted for the purity of their fruit flavours. production of these varieties in strongly concentrated in the North Island where the warmer weather helps to ripen black grapes.
What other black grape is planted in NZ?
Syrah. it performs better in the warmer sites and produces elegant wines that are closer in style to those of the Rhone rather than those made in the hotter climates of Australia.
What are the main growing regions of New Zealand?
In North Island: Auckland, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay and Wairapa. In the South Island: Marlborough, Nelson, Canterbury and Central Otago.
Describe the region of Auckland?
The wine industry started off here and there are many large wineries still based here processing grapes from all around NZ. It’s the warmest and wettest part of NZ, and fungal diseases are an issue. Chardonnay, Merlot and Syrah are dominant plantings. Waiheke Island immediately to the east has a growing reputation for top quality wines, particularly reds.
Describe the region of Gisborne?
Located on the east coast of the North Island, in the broad estuary plain close to the town of Gisborne itself. Rainfall is high but so too are the temperatures and sunshine hours in the growing season.