If you ask anyone if they know a wine region in New Zealand, the vast majority will say Marlborough. It is the most famous region in the world where sparkling Sauvignon Blanc is grown. However, Marlborough is not the only region of New Zealand that succeeds in growing vines that are valued worldwide for their qualities. Less well known is New Zealand's second largest wine region - Hawke's Bay, which has been a rich source of quality wine since 1851.

Bordeaux and Burgundian varieties

Hawke's Bay is a fairly large and diverse region on the east coast of the North Island, producing a wide range of varieties at a very high level. It covers an area of ​​approximately 5,034 hectares. The climate is reminiscent of the French Bordeaux region and is known primarily for its red blends and Chardonnay. For example, red wine varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah thrive here. It is also home to the Craggy Range family winery , which is ranked among the top 50 wineries in the world by World's Best Vineyards .

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are typical of the East Coast region of the North Island. These Burgundian varietals are characterized by ripe blackberries, plums, delicate herbs such as sage and dusty tannins in the wine, balancing power and elegance. Firm ripe tannins and a distinct aroma underline these wines, which, unlike wines from warmer regions, remain fresh, elegant and lively. These properties also predetermine them for long-term storage.

Syrah on the rise

Hawke's Bay Syrah shows signs of a cooler climate, with white pepper, perfumed violet petals and licorice coming to the fore. The wines are often higher in acidity, giving a fresher, more savory impression of red and dark fruit than Syrah from warmer climates such as California or Chile. French oak is preferred, with its subtler smoky and spicy influences over the stronger vanilla and cream character of American oak.

A good example of Hawke's Bay Syrah features layers of dark berry fruit, blackcurrant, cherry, coffee, milk chocolate, black olive, smoke and exotic spices such as nutmeg, cardamom and juniper. This wine is very intoxicating and very easy to fall in love with!

Subregions where vines are grown

• Coastal areas

The two vine-growing areas located directly on the coast enjoy the most pronounced influence of the mild climate and long growing season. The gravelly soils of Bay View in the northern part of the Esk River Valley and Te Awanga in the south have achieved recognition for premium Chardonnay and early-maturing red varieties, including Pinot Noir.

• Hillsides

Typical subregion for differences in soil and elevation; they are planted mainly with red varieties. Long cultivated around Havelock North, the hillsides in the Maraekakaho and Bay View sub-regions are producing stellar wines and the vines are moving inland.

• Alluvial plains

The plains, which are shaped by rivers and interspersed with gravel deposits, stretch between Havelock and Napier. They include the pioneering vineyards of Taradale and Meeanee and the Gimblett Gravels and Bridge Pa Triangle area, where some of the region's best wines are grown.

• River valley

Hawke's Bay is crisscrossed by four rivers, which over time have created a huge variety of grape growing sites. These sites provided sheltered environments with different altitudes, different positions to the sun and different soil types. Quality varieties Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir come from places with a higher altitude.

• Central Hawke's Bay

The inland vineyards up to 300 meters above sea level of Central Hawke's Bay are characterized as cooler areas with potential for Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir.

Source: nzwine.com