New Zealand Flashcards
Learn the geography, grape varieties, climate, soil, wine styles, and producers of New Zealand.
What is the predominant climate of New Zealand?
Maritime
Which region in New Zealand is NOT Maritime climate?
Central Otago: The climate here is Continental.
New Zealand is split into the:
- _______ Island
- _______ Island
- North Island
- South Island
What is the body of water on New Zealand’s eastern side?
The Pacific Ocean
What is the name of the body of water separating New Zealand and Australia?
The Tasman Sea
What is the name of the mountain range on the South Island?
(hint: Central Otago is in the foothills)
Southern New Zealand Alps
What role do the Southern Alps play in the South Island’s climate?
The Southern Alps protect regions from cold winds off the Tasman Sea, creating a rain shadow for most regions east.
Which island generally sees more rain: the North Island or the South Island?
The North Island
The North Island is wetter and also tends to be warmer than the South Island.
Generally speaking, what are the differences between Sauvignon Blancs from the North Island and South Island?
Because the North Island tends to be warmer than the South Island, Sauvignon Blancs from the North Island show more tropical, passionfruit flavors and the Sauvignon Blancs from the South Island show higher acidity, green bell pepper, and gooseberry flavors.
What is the most planted grape in New Zealand?
Sauvignon Blanc (>22,000 ha)
Behind Sauvignon Blanc, what other white grape varieties are New Zealand producers cultivating?
- Chardonnay
- Riesling
- Pinot Gris
- Gewurztraminer
What is the most planted red/black grape in New Zealand?
Hint: it’s also the second most planted grape in New Zealand of either color.
Pinot Noir
After Pinot Noir, what other black/red grapes are cultivated in New Zealand?
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Syrah
What are the North Island’s wine regions?
- Auckland
- Gisborne
- Hawke’s Bay
-
Wairarapa
- Martin borough
What are the South Island’s wine regions?
- Marlborough
- Nelson
- Canterbury
- Central Otago