New Zealand Flashcards
(10 cards)
1
Q
What are the main climatic influences in New Zealand wine regions?
A
- Maritime climate throughout, with long growing season
- Cool nights preserve acidity
- Rainfall & humidity can be high but moderated by wind
- Southern Alps shelter east coast regions from westerly rains
2
Q
What are the general soil types in New Zealand wine regions?
A
- Alluvial gravel (e.g., Marlborough, Hawke’s Bay)
- Volcanic soils (e.g., Central Otago, Auckland)
- Loess and clay-limestone pockets
- Free-draining soils are ideal for viticulture
3
Q
What are the main wine producing regions in the North Island?
A
- Auckland – warm, humid
- Gisborne – sunny, fertile
- Hawke’s Bay – warm, diverse terroir
- Wairarapa (includes Martinborough) – cooler, elegant styles
4
Q
What are the main wine producing regions in the South Island?
A
- Marlborough – New Zealand’s largest and most famous
- Nelson – coastal, sunny
- Canterbury / North Canterbury – cool and dry
- Central Otago – southernmost, continental climate, high altitude
5
Q
What grape varietal is Marlborough best known for?
A
- Sauvignon Blanc – intensely aromatic, high acidity
- Also known for Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sparkling
6
Q
What grape varietals are associated with Hawke’s Bay?
A
- Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah – Bordeaux-style blends
- Also Chardonnay, Viognier
- Gimblett Gravels sub-region = key for reds
7
Q
What varietal is Martinborough (Wairarapa) best known for?
A
- Pinot Noir – elegant, earthy, Burgundian style
- Also Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling
8
Q
What grape varietals thrive in Central Otago?
A
- Pinot Noir – ripe, intense, pure fruit
- Also aromatic whites like Riesling, Pinot Gris
9
Q
What is the geographic appellation structure in New Zealand?
A
- Divided by North Island and South Island
- 10 official GI wine regions, governed by New Zealand Grape and Wine Board
- No tiered AOC/DOC system – relies on producer reputation
10
Q
Which New Zealand region is most associated with Syrah?
A
Hawke’s Bay, especially Gimblett Gravels – warm, stony soils ideal for Rhône-style Syrah
