New Zealand Flashcards
New Zealand has what type of climate?
Maritime climate (influence of Pacific Ocean)
Long or short daily sunshine hours? Consequence of this?
Long sunshine hours. Allowing flavour ripeness to fully develop.
What is one potential hazard of grape growing in NZ. How is it, in part, naturally mitigated?
Rain can be a problem during ripening but most soils are free draining
List the 5 most planted white grapes of New Zealand.
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
Rielsing,
Gewurztraminer,
Pinot Gris
New Zealand Chardonnay is generally associated with what sort of oak?
New French oak (more subtle toast and sweet spice)
What natural factor helps explain why aromatic white grapes thrive in New Zealand?
The cool nights retain the aromatic compounds in the grapes.
From north to south what are the 4 wine regions of the North Island?
Auckland
Gisbourne
Hawke’s Bay
Wairapa (Martinborough)
(Recognising which Island they are in is more important than placing them geographically).
From north to south what are the 4 wine regions of the South Island?
Nelson
Marlborough
Canterbury
Central Otago
(Recognising which Island they are in is more important than placing them geographically).
Describe the climate of the Auckland wine region.
What grapes are grown here?
Warmest, wettest part of New Zealand.
Chardonnay, Merlot and Syrah
Describe the climate of the Gisbourn wine region.
What grapes are grown here?
High temperatures and rainfall plus long sunshine hours
Chardonnay
Small amount Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris.
Describe the climate of the Hawke’s Bay wine region.
What grapes are grown here?
The warmest main growing area with longest sunshine hours. Has diverse soils, aspects and altitudes
Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon made in Bordeaux styles
Syrah - N.Rhone style.
What is the highest quality sub region of Hawke’s Bay? Describe the key soil type of this region.
What affect does this soil type have on style and quality?
Gimblett Gravels
Well drained, heat absorbing gravels on the valley floor.
Achieves sufficient ripeness (Balance), and concentration (LIC - BLIC).
Describe the climate of the Martinborough wine region.
What grapes are grown here?
High Summer temps but wide diurnal range
Pinot Noir.
Name the two sub regions of Marlborough and summarise the main differences between them
Wairau - Largest estuary, long sunny days, side valleys give aspects and altitudes
Awatere Valley - Drier, cooler, windier = leaner, more acidic wines.
What grapes are associated with the Marlborough wine region?
Pinot Noir
Sauvignon Blanc
Chardonnay
