New Zealand

Question 1

What regions contribute the most to sparkling wine production in New Zealand?

Answer 1

• Marlborough
• Central Otago
• Gisborne

Question 2

New Zealand sparkling wine is typically a blend of what two grape varieties?

Answer 2

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

Question 3

What are some of the advantages of sourcing/growing grapes in Marlborough?

Answer 3

• 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

Question 4

New Zealand’s largest sparkling wine producers rely on what method of production?

Answer 4

Transfer

Question 5

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

Answer 5

True, this causes them to send their blended still wine to a contract winemaking facility for the addition of tirage

Question 6

Once the wine has been sent out for tirage and sent back, the wine does not leave the winery again, right?

(New Zealand)

Answer 6

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

Question 7

Is there any legislation talking about how the grapes must be handled and pressed in New Zealand?

Answer 7

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.

Question 8

Do most New Zealand Sparkling wines undergo MLC?

Answer 8

Yes, this is done to reduce the high acid levels found through out the country.

Question 9

What is they typical amount of time of on the lees for traditional or transfer method wines in New Zealand?

Answer 9

18 months, though some producers will go longer

Question 10

How much of New Zealand’s exports consist of sparkling wine?

Answer 10

half a pecent