The Market: Wine from New Zealand continues to go from strength to strength. The UK now accounts for 36% of exports with over 27.5 million litres coming here last year, and although a small percentage of the total UK market, New Zealand still holds the enviable position of the highest average bottle price sold in the off-trade.

Sauvignon Blanc dominates, particularly from Marlborough and accounts for nearly three in every four bottles exported. Pinot Noir is now the second highest selling varietal and good quality affordable examples are in high demand.

The Regions: Marlborough is the largest area under vine in New Zealand and when first planted in 1973 few people predicted that the region would become the country’s largest and best known winegrowing area. The distinctive pungency and zesty fruit flavours of its Sauvignon Blanc continues to appeal and this is by far the most planted grape variety with Chardonnay in second place, followed by Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Hawkes Bay is the country’s second largest region and has been active in wine production for 100 years. The varied topography and wide range of soil type, produces a considerable range of wine styles. Whites are tropical and rich, reds full bodied.

Located on the country’s most easterly tip, Gisborne is the third largest vineyard and receives high sunshine hours on its coastal plains which are sheltered from the west by mountains. Production is 90% white varieties and 10% red.