New Zealand Vintages

Question 1

2014

Answer 1

A generally good vintage across the country, with particular excitement in Hawke’s Bay where 2014 is thought of as potentially even better than the outstanding 2013. The country’s viticultural engine room Marlborough had its largest ever vintage, with quality touted as above-average.

Question 2

2013

Answer 2

Slightly riper than 2012 in Marlborough, and ‘nigh-on perfect’ in much of the north island, especially Hawke’s Bay, with a long, warm summer and no adverse weather - although early frosts did bring down yields for many.

Question 3

2012

Answer 3

One of the coolest years on record, and an overall yield 18% below the norm. This resulted in Sauvignon Blancs with grass and citrus flavours instead of tropical fruit.

Question 4

2011

Answer 4

Warm and ripe across New Zealand, with a bumper crop of grapes.

Question 5

2010

Answer 5

Only produced 75% of average yields, but a very easy vintage otherwise. Sauvignon Blanc experienced particular concentration, while Pinot Noir was praised for its perfume and firm structure.

Question 6

2009

Answer 6

Good quality throughout New Zealand, with dry conditions making for lovely, healthy, naturally balanced wines. Reds from Martinborough and Hawke’s Bay were especially noteworthy.

Question 7

2008

Answer 7

A lot of rot in Marlborough, meaning careful selection was required to make good Sauvignon Blanc. Not a distinguished vintage.

Question 8

2007

Answer 8

Unkind to Martinborough, which suffered frost damage, but was welcomed across every other region as being good if not outstanding quality.

Question 9

2006

Answer 9

Good Sauvignon Blanc, but was more notable for Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah based wines that benefited from the warm and dry weather.

Question 10

2005

Answer 10

A small crop, producing wine with much greater concentration than normal.

Question 11

2004

Answer 11

High yields of good quality fruit across most regions - with the exception of Central Otago, which suffered decimating frosts.

Question 12

2003

Answer 12

Poor quality and low in yield. Best avoided.

Question 13

2002

Answer 13

Warm weather that was good for Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, but less beneficial to Sauvignon Blanc.

Question 14

2001

Answer 14

Exceptional quality on the south island, but was lighter in style on the north island.

Question 15

2000

Answer 15

Much lower yields thanks to rot caused by rain. Marlborough was one of the best regions of the country.