New Zealand Flashcards
Why does New Zealand have great potential for making notable sparkling wines?
cool climate and plentiful supply of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Why has sparkling wines in New Zealand remained only a tiny part of their overall production of wines?
success of still wines especially sauvignon blanc
What method for sparkling wines is used in New Zealand?
traditional method
although some carbonated wines also made
general SAT for new Zealand sparkling wines
mid to premium priced
med intensity aromas
apple lemon with light autolytic notes
high acidity
brut style
good to very good in quality with some outstanding examples
Where are grapes sourced for Sparkling wines in New Zealand
around the two islands, however cooler climates of New Zealand’s South Island are better suited for elegant sparkling wine styles with crisp acidty
Where in New Zealand are the most grape vineyards suitable for sparkling wines?
Marlborough (2/3 of country’s vineyards
Where on the north island of New Zealand is the home to large vol sparkling wine brands - producing fuller bodied styles with lower acidity and less finesse
Gisborne
What are the are advantages of Marlborough as sparkling wine region in new Zealand
low risk of late frost or hailstorms
prevalent north-west winds help to remove air moisture quickly after rain reducing threat of fungal disease
while it is moderate rainfall - vineyards need to be irrigated due to free drainin alluvial soil and high levels of transpiration due to the strong wind
good access to clean water from the constant undergrown water table
When does harvest start for New Zealand sparkling wines?
2 weeks before still wine harvest which is beneficial because autumn rain and the tail end of tropical cyclones can be a challenge later in the harvest
What potential alcohol are grapes in New Zealand picked at for sparkling wines?
10-11%
What varietal(s) are most New Zealand sparkling wines made?
most are blend based on PInot Noir and Chardonnay
What method are used to make high-quality sparkling wines in New Zealand
Traditional method, but some of the country’s biggest producers also use transfer method
What method are used to make inexpensive sparkling wines in New Zealand
carbonation
What do small producers use for fruit in making sparkling wine in New Zealand?
their own fruit
What do some larger producers rely on for fruit in New Zealand sparkling wine?
they own their own vineyards but rely on long-standing contract with grape growers to fulfill their requirements
