New Zealand (South Island)

Question 1

Nelson:

Answer 1

The northernmost region on the South Island

Sunniest and rainiest region on the South Island

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay make over 80% of the regions vineyard acreage, excelling in the cool climate

Contributes only 3% of New Zealand’s total wine

Question 2

Marlborough:

Answer 2

Produces 67% of the entire country’s wine, with over 19,000 ha of Sauvignon Blanc alone

Montana controls nearly two-thirds of vineyards

Montana’s Lindauer brand sparkling wine is the most exported wines of the country

A partnership forged in 1988 between Montana and Deutz of Champagne to produce premium sparkling wines

Three major subregions: the northern Wairau Valley, the central Southern Valleys, southernmost Awatere Valley

Cool nights, dry, lengthy growing season

Irrigation is widespread

Question 3

Canterbury:

Answer 3

Fastest growing region due in large part to the success of its northern subregion Waipara Valley

Winemaking on the Banks Peninsula dates to 1840

Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris are successful here

Question 4

Central Otago:

Answer 4

Only Continental Climate on New Zealand!

Winemakers take advantage of the sun by planting on northern hillside exposures

Spring frost are a costly problem and in cooler years winemakers have difficulties with ripeness

Best Pinot Noirs from producers such as Felton Road, Mt. Difficulty, and Rippon

Subregions: Wanaka, Gibbston, Alexandra, Cromwell Basin