Check out Some of the Best New Zealand Wine
and Vineyard Tours

Wine is relatively new in New Zealand, having only really taken off in the last 30 years. That doesn’t mean it hasn’t made a big impact however! Starting with the famous Sauvignon Blancs from Marlborough, widely considered the world’s best, wine has really come into its own. If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, or are just looking for a great bottle of New Zealand wine, here’s a guide to the best regions, grapes and tours.

Among white wines, Sauvignon Blanc still reigns as one of the best and most popular. The taste is brilliant, with a lot of fresh fruitiness. The other major white is Chardonnay, which is grown largely in the North Island. No exploration of New Zealand wine would be complete without sampling some of the lively Sauvignon Blancs, and this should definitely be a priority if you’re headed to the South Island!

Blends are the norm for New Zealand reds with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon at the forefront. There are a wide variety available, ranging from unassuming to powerful. With these varieties, you may have to experiment before you find a wine maker or a vintage that suits your palate. The key to not give up after one unimpressive bottle.

Other New Zealand wines worth noting are their variations on the Alsatian wines with Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer gaining some popularity. As for reds, Syrahs and Cabernet Franc are some of the more unusual choices. If you’re looking to celebrate with some sparkling wine, Lindauer is one of your best choices. For a real treat, try some of the new Pinot Noirs. These rich wines, with strong cherry overtones match well with a variety of foods, especially lighter preparations of meat.

If you’re serious about New Zealand food and drink, then why not try a full New Zealand wine tour? You can spend a week traveling the country’s best wine producing regions, from Hawkes Bay and Martinborough in the North Island, to Marlborough and Blenheim on the South Island. An organized tour can help free you from worrying about New Zealand accommodation, car hire or activities, and let you relax and enjoy the food and wine.

If you prefer more independent sightseeing, all of the wine producing regions mentioned above offer half day or day tours of various wineries. Try a few bottles of the different varieties before you go, and then decide which areas and vineyards you’d most enjoy visiting.

The New Zealand wine industry is still evolving, and there are always new delights and surprises that await adventurous tasters. New Zealand wine is often affordable, so go ahead and try something unusual on your New Zealand vacation. You just might find a new favorite!