Marlborough Wine

What is Marlborough known for?

Sauvignon Blanc made Marlborough famous. It covers more than 80% of the region's vineyards. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is bold and aromatic, with passionfruit, lime, grapefruit and fresh-cut grass, and it has bright, mouthwatering acidity. It's made to drink young and fresh.

Pinot Noir is the main red. It's lighter and more red-fruited than Central Otago Pinot, with cherry, raspberry and a savoury edge. Pinot Gris and Chardonnay are also very good, and the region makes fine sparkling wine from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Why Marlborough wine tastes the way it does

Marlborough is one of New Zealand's sunniest and driest regions. Long sunny days ripen the fruit, while cool nights and sea breezes keep the acidity high. That's why the wines taste so vivid and fresh. Mountains shelter the vineyards from heavy rain and strong winds.

The region has three main areas. The Wairau Valley, around Blenheim, has stony old riverbed soils and makes the classic tropical style. The Southern Valleys have heavier clay soils and are a growing source of Pinot Noir. The Awatere Valley is cooler, drier and windier, and gives crisper, more herbal, mineral wines.

A little history

Early settlers planted vines in Marlborough in the 1870s, but large-scale commercial planting only began in 1973. Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc caught the world's attention in the mid-1980s, and today the region makes most of New Zealand's wine.

Marlborough vs Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is usually bolder, with big passionfruit and grassy aromas. Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc is a little rounder and more restrained, with more citrus and stone fruit. If you love the Kiwi style, stay here. If you'd like something softer, try Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc.

How to choose a Marlborough wine

• For oysters, seafood or goat's cheese, grab a Sauvignon Blanc.
• For Thai food or salads, try a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris.
• For salmon, duck or mushrooms, a Marlborough Pinot Noir is a great match.
• For a celebration, Nautilus Cuvée Brut is a lovely alternative to Champagne.
• For a gift, Dog Point Section 94 shows a richer side of Sauvignon Blanc.