New Zealand Flashcards
What regions contribute the most to sparkling wine production in New Zealand?
- Marlborough
- Central Otago
- Gisborne
New Zealand sparkling wine is typically a blend of what two grape varieties?
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
What are some of the advantages of sourcing/growing grapes in Marlborough?
- Low risk of hail
- Low risk of spring frost
- Prevalent north-west wind helps remove moisture quickly, reducing the threat of fungal disease
- Good access to clean water
New Zealand’s largest sparkling wine producers rely on what method of production?
Transfer
True or False,
Most wineries making sparkling wine in New Zealand do not have the equipment or expertise need to make high-quality, traditional method sparkling wine
True, this causes them to send their blended still wine to a contract winemaking facility for the addition of tirage
Once the wine has been sent out for tirage and sent back, the wine does not leave the winery again, right?
(New Zealand)
Actually, no. The wine does age at the producers warehouse/winery, but it is sent out again for disgorgement and the addition of the dosage
Is there any legislation talking about how the grapes must be handled and pressed in New Zealand?
Like most of the New World, there is no legislation about grape varieties or wine making techniques.
However there are quality-conscious producers who will hand pick and do whole cluster pressings.
Do most New Zealand Sparkling wines undergo MLC?
Yes, this is done to reduce the high acid levels found through out the country.
What is they typical amount of time of on the lees for traditional or transfer method wines in New Zealand?
18 months, though some producers will go longer
How much of New Zealand’s exports consist of sparkling wine?
half a pecent
