New Zealand Flashcards

1
Q

When were the first vines planted in New Zealand?

A

The first vines were planted in 1819.

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2
Q

Who brought the first grapevine cuttings to New Zealand?

A

English missionary Samuel Marsden brought the cuttings from Australia.

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3
Q

What region in New Zealand was the initial site of grapevine plantings?

A

The initial plantings were in Kerikeri, Northland.

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4
Q

What did Samuel Marsden predict about New Zealand’s wine potential?

A

He noted that New Zealand promises to be very favorable to wine production.

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5
Q

What was the major wave of migration to New Zealand in the 19th century?

A

The major wave of migration came from Britain.

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6
Q

Who is considered responsible for producing New Zealand’s first wine?

A

Scottish-born James Busby is believed to have produced the first wine.

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7
Q

Which group founded the Hawke’s Bay wine industry?

A

French missionaries founded the industry in 1851.

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8
Q

What influence did Dalmatians have on New Zealand’s wine industry?

A

Dalmatians forged a winegrowing community in west Auckland from the early 1900s.

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9
Q

When did the Māori likely arrive in New Zealand?

A

The Māori likely arrived in the early 14th century CE.

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10
Q

What is the Māori term for tribes?

A

Māori tribes are referred to as iwi.

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11
Q

What percentage of New Zealand’s wine labels feature Māori names?

A

Approximately 80 of the 700 wine labels feature Māori names.

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12
Q

What was the temperance movement’s impact on New Zealand’s wine industry?

A

The temperance movement created legal and social challenges for the wine industry.

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13
Q

What significant event occurred in New Zealand’s wine industry in 1919?

A

A national vote on prohibition took place.

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14
Q

When were pubs allowed to remain open past 6pm?

A

Pubs were allowed to remain open past 6pm in 1967.

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15
Q

What is the most important grape variety in New Zealand?

A

Sauvignon Blanc is the most important grape variety.

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16
Q

Where was the first commercially available Sauvignon Blanc produced?

A

The first commercially available Sauvignon Blanc was produced in Auckland.

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17
Q

When did New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc gain international recognition?

A

The first examples made their way to overseas critics in the mid-1980s.

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18
Q

What percentage of global vineyard area does New Zealand account for?

A

New Zealand accounts for only 0.5% of the total vineyard area globally.

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19
Q

What is the nickname for New Zealanders?

A

Kiwi is a nickname for New Zealanders.

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20
Q

How much did New Zealand’s wine exports value in 2020?

A

Wine exports were valued at over NZ$2 billion in 2020.

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21
Q

What is the geographical significance of New Zealand’s location?

A

New Zealand is surrounded by vast bodies of water, influencing its maritime climate.

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22
Q

What is the average growing season temperature in Marlborough?

A

The average growing season temperature is 15.2 degrees Celsius (59.4 degrees Fahrenheit).

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23
Q

What is the Geographical Indications Bill?

A

The bill protects the names of 18 New Zealand wine regions.

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24
Q

What is the 85% rule in New Zealand wine law?

A

If a vintage, variety, or origin is stated on the label, at least 85% must be sourced from that vintage, variety, or origin.

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25
Q

What is the significance of screwcaps in New Zealand wine?

A

Screwcaps are increasingly used for sealing New Zealand wines.

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26
Q

What is the minimum alcohol level for wines sold in the European Union?

A

Wines sold in the European Union must have a minimum alcohol level of 8.5%.

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27
Q

What certification must producers gain for their wines before export from New Zealand?

A

Producers must gain export eligibility certification for each of their wines before they leave New Zealand shores.

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28
Q

What is the global leader in bottling wines under screwcap?

A

New Zealand is the global leader in bottling wines under screwcap.

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29
Q

What percentage of wine globally is sealed under screwcap?

A

Approximately 30% of wine globally is sealed under screwcap.

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30
Q

What was the main reason for the New Zealand Screwcap Initiative?

A

The initiative was driven by the poor quality of cork reaching Oceania in the 1990s and early 2000s, which was prone to TCA infection.

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31
Q

What character is often attributed to New Zealand wine due to screwcap bottling?

A

Many have attributed a reductive character to New Zealand wine due to bottling under screwcap.

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32
Q

What is the average size of a vineyard in New Zealand?

A

The average size of a vineyard is 19 hectares.

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33
Q

When was the first New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc produced?

A

The first New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc was produced in Auckland by Ross Spence in 1974.

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34
Q

What grape variety usurped Chardonnay to become New Zealand’s most planted variety?

A

Sauvignon Blanc usurped Chardonnay to become New Zealand’s most planted variety in 2002.

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35
Q

What are the hallmark characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough?

A

A hallmark of Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough is its green-yet-ripe tropical fruit character.

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36
Q

What compound causes the buttery character often found in Chardonnay?

A

Diacetyl is the compound that causes the buttery character often found in Chardonnay.

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37
Q

What grape variety has become the third most planted white grape in New Zealand?

A

Pinot Gris has become the third most planted white grape in New Zealand.

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38
Q

What is the most planted red variety in New Zealand?

A

Pinot Noir is New Zealand’s most planted red variety.

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39
Q

Where is Merlot predominantly planted in New Zealand?

A

Merlot has found its Kiwi home in Hawke’s Bay, which contains 90% of the nation’s plantings.

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40
Q

Where is Merlot predominantly planted in New Zealand?

A

Merlot has found its Kiwi home in Hawke’s Bay, which contains 90% of the nation’s plantings.

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41
Q

How does Merlot’s ripening compare to Cabernet Sauvignon?

A

Merlot buds, flowers, and ripens at least a week before Cabernet Sauvignon.

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42
Q

What are the typical characteristics of Merlot?

A

The expression of Merlot is typically a little fruitier and juicier than an equivalent Right Bank wine, with acidity and supple tannins.

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43
Q

What percentage of New Zealand’s vineyard land is planted with Merlot?

A

Merlot accounts for 2.7% of vineyard land.

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44
Q

What is notable about Syrah in New Zealand?

A

Despite limited plantings, Syrah thrives in New Zealand, exhibiting distinctive blackberry, violet, and black pepper characters.

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45
Q

What significant action did Dr. Alan Limmer take regarding Syrah?

A

In 1984, Dr. Alan Limmer took cuttings from the national viticulture center and planted them in his vineyard in the Gimblett Gravels district.

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46
Q

What is the current percentage of Syrah planted in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Today, 77% of New Zealand’s Syrah is planted in Hawke’s Bay.

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47
Q

What is the significance of Cabernet Sauvignon in New Zealand?

A

Cabernet Sauvignon is the backbone of some of New Zealand’s most expensive wines.

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48
Q

What is the typical aging process for Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines?

A

The finest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines are often aged in French oak barrels for around 18 months.

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49
Q

What percentage of vineyard land is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon?

A

Cabernet Sauvignon accounts for 0.5% of vineyard land.

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50
Q

What challenges does Northland face for grape growing?

A

Northland’s subtropical climate and high annual rainfall discourage most serious grapegrowers.

51
Q

What is the most planted variety in Northland?

A

Chardonnay is the region’s most planted variety.

52
Q

How does the climate in Auckland affect wine production?

A

Auckland’s humid climate makes it challenging to produce fine wine.

53
Q

What is the most important variety in Auckland?

A

The most important variety in the Auckland region is Chardonnay.

54
Q

What is Gisborne known for in the wine industry?

A

Gisborne was once the country’s largest wine producer and is known for its fertile soils and temperate maritime climate.

55
Q

What grape variety accounts for approximately 50% of Gisborne’s vineyard area?

A

Chardonnay remains Gisborne’s most important grape variety.

56
Q

What is the historical significance of Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand’s wine industry?

A

Hawke’s Bay is home to the country’s oldest winery, Mission Estate, founded in 1851.

57
Q

What is the average growing season temperature in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Hawke’s Bay enjoys an average growing season temperature of 16.3 degrees Celsius (61.3 degrees Fahrenheit).

58
Q

What are the major challenges for grape growers in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Challenges include autumn rain, frost, and site-dependent climate variations.

59
Q

What is the cooling influence on valleys?

A

Valleys benefit from the cooling influence of a small increase in altitude.

60
Q

What are the major challenges for growers in different climates?

A

The major challenges for growers are site dependent, with inland vineyards being more prone to frost than coastal ones.

61
Q

What is a common method used to combat frost in vineyards?

A

Frost fans are commonly used among the vines to circulate air and keep temperatures above freezing.

62
Q

What climatic issues affected vintages in New Zealand between 2010 and 2020?

A

Several vintages suffered due to ex-tropical cyclones from the South Pacific hitting New Zealand during harvest.

63
Q

What type of soils are most of Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards planted on?

A

Most vineyards are planted on gravel-based alluvial soils of the Heretaunga Plains.

64
Q

What is the significance of Gimblett Gravels in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Gimblett Gravels is renowned for its Bordeaux blends and Syrah, covering more than 800 hectares of vineyard.

65
Q

What geological event shaped the Gimblett Gravels region?

A

An 1867 earthquake changed the course of the Ngaruroro River, leaving behind gravel, silt, and loam.

66
Q

What is necessary for vines to survive in Gimblett Gravels?

A

Due to free-draining soils, vines cannot survive without daily irrigation.

67
Q

What challenges do winemakers face in Gimblett Gravels?

A

Winemakers must avoid stuck ferments caused by a lack of nitrogen and ensure fermenting wines receive plenty of oxygen.

68
Q

What characterizes the wines from Bridge Pa Triangle?

A

Bridge Pa wines are fleshier than those from Gimblett Gravels due to its soils.

69
Q

Why is Hawke’s Bay not suitable for fine Pinot Noir?

A

Hawke’s Bay is too warm for growing fine Pinot Noir.

70
Q

What percentage of New Zealand’s Bordeaux plantings are in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Hawke’s Bay is home to 90% of New Zealand’s Bordeaux plantings.

71
Q

What has favored Cabernet Sauvignon over Merlot in recent years?

A

Cabernet Sauvignon has proved more resilient to harvest rain and performs better on bony, gravel soils.

72
Q

What wine styles are typical of Hawke’s Bay?

A

Hawke’s Bay’s wines are ripe yet mid-weight, with structured and elegant Bordeaux blends and Syrahs.

73
Q

What are the aromatic characteristics of Hawke’s Bay Syrah?

A

Hawke’s Bay Syrah presents ripe blackberry fruit, violets, smoked bacon, black pepper, and sometimes green peppercorn.

74
Q

What is the calling card for fine wine lovers in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Chardonnay is the region’s calling card for fine wine lovers.

75
Q

What is the most planted white variety in Hawke’s Bay?

A

Sauvignon Blanc is the most planted white variety in Hawke’s Bay.

76
Q

What is the Wairarapa known for in terms of grape growing?

A

Wairarapa is known for fine, savory Pinot Noir, accounting for around half of all plantings.

77
Q

What climatic conditions define Wairarapa?

A

Wairarapa has a cool, windy climate with a large diurnal temperature range.

78
Q

What type of soils are found in Wairarapa?

A

Wairarapa’s vineyards lie on alluvial terraces created by the Ruamahanga River.

79
Q

What is the significance of Martinborough in Wairarapa?

A

Martinborough is the most famous subregion of Wairarapa, particularly suited for growing Pinot Noir.

80
Q

What is the primary challenge for Wairarapa’s wine production?

A

Wairarapa represents around 3% of New Zealand’s vineyard area but just 1% of its wine production due to low yields.

81
Q

What is the typical style of Wairarapa Sauvignon Blanc?

A

Wairarapa Sauvignon Blanc leans toward a more citrusy, grassy expression.

82
Q

What is the historical significance of Marlborough in New Zealand’s wine industry?

A

Marlborough’s modern wine history began in 1973 with the establishment of vineyards by Frank Yukich.

83
Q

What percentage of New Zealand’s vineyard area does Marlborough represent?

A

Marlborough represents 70% of the national vineyard area.

84
Q

What is the climate like in Marlborough?

A

Marlborough has a sunny climate with 2,475 hours of sunshine annually and a fairly dry climate.

85
Q

What are the two major valleys in Marlborough?

A

The two major valleys are the Wairau Valley and the Awatere Valley.

86
Q

What is the main soil type in Marlborough?

A

The main soil type is alluvial, consisting of gravels, silt, sand, and loam.

87
Q

What grape variety dominates Marlborough’s vineyard area?

A

Sauvignon Blanc dominates, accounting for 80% of the region’s vineyard area.

88
Q

What is the typical style of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc?

A

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is known for its bright, fruit-forward style.

89
Q

How has Marlborough Pinot Noir’s reputation compared to other regions?

A

Marlborough Pinot Noir has not enjoyed the same reputation as those from Martinborough or Central Otago.

90
Q

What is the role of Chardonnay in Marlborough?

A

Chardonnay can produce exceptional results in Marlborough, despite being less dominant in plantings.

91
Q

What factors have led to major improvements in winemaking?

A

Clones, increased vine age, and a more hands-off approach to winemaking, particularly less extraction and pulling back on new oak use.

92
Q

Which varieties have significant plantings in Marlborough?

A

Pinot Gris and Chardonnay.

93
Q

How is Pinot Gris typically produced in Marlborough?

A

It generally employs cool fermentation to produce a neutral, off-dry style with subtle pear flavors.

94
Q

What are the similarities between Marlborough and Burgundy?

A

There are several similarities in terms of temperatures and rainfall.

95
Q

What is the typical fermentation method for Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough?

A

Typically fermented in stainless steel before being bottled young and released within months of the harvest.

96
Q

What is the significance of Methode Marlborough?

A

It was created in 2013 to set a framework for quality production of sparkling wines.

97
Q

What varieties must be used by Methode Marlborough members?

A

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.

98
Q

What is Nelson’s climate like?

A

It has a sunny, maritime climate with more rain than regions on the east coast.

99
Q

What is the average vineyard holding size in Nelson?

A

Below the national average at 12 hectares.

100
Q

Who was a pioneer in the Nelson wine region?

A

Austrian Hermann Seifried, who started planting grapevines in 1974.

101
Q

What is Nelson’s most planted variety?

A

Sauvignon Blanc, accounting for a little more than half of all vineyards.

102
Q

How does Nelson’s Sauvignon Blanc compare to Marlborough’s?

A

It tends to be slightly more restrained aromatically.

103
Q

What are the two subregions of Nelson?

A

Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills.

104
Q

What is the main variety planted in North Canterbury?

A

Pinot Noir.

105
Q

What is the climate of Waipara Valley?

A

It has a cool climate, with 1,065 growing degree days.

106
Q

What is the primary soil type on the valley floor in North Canterbury?

A

Free-draining, alluvial soils known as Glasnevin Gravels.

107
Q

What is Central Otago known for?

A

Its deeply colored, powerful Pinot Noirs.

108
Q

When were the first commercial wines produced in Central Otago?

A

In 1987.

109
Q

What percentage of vineyard area in Central Otago is planted with Pinot Noir?

A

More than 75%.

110
Q

What climatic conditions are typical in Central Otago?

A

Very dry conditions with wide diurnal temperature ranges.

111
Q

What is the significance of the 2002 vintage for Central Otago?

A

It made a global splash, showcasing the region’s wines to critics.

112
Q

What challenges do growers face in Central Otago?

A

Frost, water stress, and the need for careful canopy management.

113
Q

What has improved in Central Otago Pinot Noir production?

A

The maturation of vines and winemakers has led to improved skin and seed tannin, making oak less essential for providing tannins and flavor.

114
Q

What is the significance of the Gibbston subregion in Central Otago?

A

Gibbston is the coolest and westernmost subregion, known for lifted aromatics, delicacy, and notable acidity, but it is risky to make wine there.

115
Q

Where are the majority of Central Otago’s vines planted?

A

70% of the region’s vines are planted around the shores of Lake Dunstan due to its warmer climate and ready source of irrigation water.

116
Q

What are the characteristics of Bannockburn subregion?

A

Bannockburn is the warmest subregion and was promoted to GI status in 2022.

117
Q

How does Wanaka’s climate affect its Pinot Noir?

A

Wanaka’s more temperate and slightly wetter climate tends to produce more mellow, gentler expressions of Pinot Noir.

118
Q

What distinguishes Alexandra’s Pinot Noir?

A

Alexandra’s producers pick later than lakeside counterparts, resulting in a more red-fruited, herbal expression with ripe flavors and bright acidity.

119
Q

What white wines are notable in Central Otago?

A

Central Otago produces interesting white wines, notably from Chardonnay and Riesling, which retain striking acidity.

120
Q

What are the characteristics of the finest Chardonnays from Central Otago?

A

The finest Chardonnays are barrel fermented, offering ripe orchard fruit and citrus flavors in a mid-weight package.

121
Q

What is the most planted white variety in Central Otago?

A

The most planted white variety is Pinot Gris, which can be treated with respect by some producers to create intensity of flavor.

122
Q

What is the Waitaki Valley known for?

A

Waitaki Valley, New Zealand’s smallest region, is known for its limestone and pioneering producers, with just 60 hectares of vineyard as of 2020.

123
Q

What challenges does the Waitaki Valley face in viticulture?

A

Waitaki receives only 850 growing degree days, making it the coldest viticultural area in New Zealand, and ripening can be a challenge.

124
Q

What grape varieties are preferred in Waitaki Valley?

A

The preferred grape varieties are Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, producing highly aromatic wines with refreshing acidity.