New Zealand

Question 1

Identify a few of the key wine regions on New Zealand’s North Island and the climate

Answer 1

climate: similar to Bordeaux in the north, cool climate in the south, higher rainfall and humidity - can leads to rot and grape damage
1. Auckland
2. Waikato
3. Gisborne “Poverty Bay”
4. Hawkes Bay
5. Martinborough

Question 2

Identify a few of the key wine regions on New Zealand’s South Island and the climate

Answer 2

climate: highest temperatures in Marlborogh but cooler in southern regions, lighter rainfall than North Island. Central mountain range “Southern Alps” creates rainshadow effect
1. Neslon
2. Canterbury
3. Marlborough
4. Central Otago

Question 3

What are the principle grape varieties of the North Island of New Zealand and some top producers

Answer 3

grapes: Bordeaux varieties, Chardonnay, Syrah, Muller-Thurgau
producers: James Milton (organic, Chenin Blanc), Craggy Range (Pinot Noir), Kumeu River (Chardonnay)

Question 4

What are the principle grape varieties of the South Island of New Zealand and some top producers

Answer 4

grapes: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir
producers: Babich (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc), Felton Road (Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling), Cloudy Bay (Sauvignon Blanc), Neudorf (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir)

Question 5

Discuss the best region for Pinot Noir in New Zealand and why is it successful here

Answer 5

Central Otago, South Island
Martinborough, North Island
- They are successful here due to cool climate respectfully between the two islands

Question 6

Note the optimal region for Bordeaux and Rhone varieties in New Zealand and describe why these varieties are successful here

Answer 6

Hawk’s Bay, North Island

- They are successful here due to the gimlet gravel

Question 7

What was New Zealand’s original wine region?

Answer 7

North Island, Auckland

Answer 8

Producer: Villa Maria

• Location: North Island, Auckland
• Grapes: Chardonnay