Marlborough

This plain, consisting mainly of alluvial soils, is now the heartland of New Zealand's wine industry. 

Thanks to low rainfall, optimal sunlight exposure for the vineyards, minimal risk of frost, and well-drained, moderately fertile soil, the Marlborough region offers ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and especially Sauvignon Blanc. Marlborough is, in fact, New Zealand’s leading producer of Sauvignon Blanc, accounting for nearly 80% of the country’s total harvest.