New Zealand South Island

The most popular wines on the Southern Island of New Zealand

New Zealand as the country of Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir are most commonly grown on the Southern Island of New Zealand. The Sauvignon Blanc plays a characteristic role, especially from the Marlborough region it has become an internationally known brand. People from all over the world enjoy this uniquely fruity, tangy wine with its herbal notes. Due to the great popularity of this grape variety, many wineries have specialised in Sauvignon Blanc. But don't worry: if you dig deeper, you will come across further successes of the region. 

Rising wines: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay

One of these successes is the Pinot Noir of New Zealand, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. The reason for this is probably the immediately noticeable fruit aromas against a spicy background, which make it interesting and unique. Most of the Pinot Noir is grown in Central Otago. But Chardonnay is not neglected on the South Island either: here a complex character is combined with the refreshing taste of lemons or apricots. And last but not least, Riesling is one of the grape varieties grown on the South Island, creating a diverse wine country.

The most important wine region of the South Island: Marlborough

Marlborough as popularity magnet

Marlborough is located in the north-east of the South Island and is its largest growing area. The region accounts for 79 percent of New Zealand's total wine production. Products from the Marlborough region are the main reason for the ever-increasing reputation of New Zealand wines and a unique experience on top of it. Even though the wine region is still quite young, it has been able to climb rapidly on the popularity lists. But what is behind the area's appeal?

Why is Marlborough a particularly suitable wine region?

Marlborough is located right on the ocean and has an ideal climate for growing wine. Not too warm, but sunny days are complemented by cool sea breezes in the evening. An elongated mountain range protects against excessive rainfall. The long ripening period and the temperature fluctuations produce a fresh, lively fruit. These distinctive aromas are characteristic of Marlborough wines - and make them something very special.

Central Otago as an extreme case of the Southern Island of New Zealand

The Central Otago wine region

Central Otago is not only the highest wine region on the island, but also the southernmost wine region in the world. Eighty percent of the area under vines here is dedicated to Pinot Noir. The Central Otago region has extremely varied soils, ranging from slate and pebbles to sand and clay with stony subsoil.

With climatic extremes to the top wine

In Central Otago you will find high temperature fluctuations and climatic extremes. Finally, cool sub-Antarctic air fronts repeatedly reach the warm South Island. The result is a combination of short but hot summers and frosty, dry winters. For the grapes in the region, this results in a more complex aroma structure. The low humidity and general dryness reduces the risk of fungal attack or rot, which means that the vines can thrive throughout the year.

Things to know about the Southern Island of New Zealand

How long has the South Island been producing wine?

The history of New Zealand's viticulture began in the colonial era. It was first mentioned in 1819 when a missionary planted vines in the north of the country. But at first, viticulture was limited exclusively to the North Island. Only since 1990 has the Southern Island of New Zealand been considered an important winegrowing region.

What is the climate like on the South Island?

The Southern Island of New Zealand is characterised by moderately warm summers and mild winters. Around 2000 hours of sunshine a year complement the moderate, mostly dry climate. High summer temperatures of over 25 degrees and cool air fronts from the Antarctic lead to climate extremes in some areas.

What soils are found on the Southern Island of New Zealand?

The soils in the wine-growing areas of the South Island are as varied as the landscapes. The Canterbury area shows stony gravel soils to heavy limestone and clay, Central Otago stony subsoils of slate. The Nelson wine region, on the other hand, has heavy and loamy soils that are particularly good at retaining water.

Discover wines from the Southern Island of New Zealand online at VINELLO

Enjoy top wines from the Southern Island of New Zealand at reasonable prices from our online shop. At VINELLO you will find a representative selection of winemakers and wineries from the Southern Island of New Zealand. With us you can shop safely and look forward to a fast delivery of your order. We also offer a variety of payment options from which you can choose your preferred method.

A further advantage with VINELLO: Our sommeliers are available by telephone for detailed advice to introduce you to the world of New Zealand Southern Island of New Zealand wines. This makes it easier and quicker for you to find your favourites, be it for a special occasion, an evening with friends or for your own private enjoyment.