The Marlborough Wine Region

Marlborough Wine Region
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  1. New Zealand's Wine Regions
  2. The Marlborough Wine Region

When the first Marlborough vines were planted in 1973 few people predicted that the region would become New Zealand's largest and best known wine growing area in little more than 20 years. The distinctive pungency and zesty fruit flavours of the first wines captured the imagination of the country's winemakers and wine drinkers alike and sparked an unparalleled boom in vineyard development.

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Worldwide interest in Marlborough wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, has continued to fuel that regional wine boom. The free-draining, alluvial loams over gravelly subsoils in the Wairau and Awatere River valleys provides ideal growing conditions. Abundant sunshine with cool nights and a long growing season helps to build and maintain the vibrant fruit flavours for which Marlborough is now famous.

Sauvignon Blanc is the most planted grape variety with Chardonnay in second place, followed by Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sauvignon Blanc may be the star but Marlborough has also earned an enviable reputation for Méthode Traditionelle sparkling wines as well as a wide range of both white and red table wines.

Wine Cruise 

A short trip to Havelock will have you at the entrance to Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds - the Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World. Enjoy a waterfront lunch before boarding your cruise into the tranquil Sounds. Your Skipper will tell facinating stories of the ancient Maori tribes of the region and the history of the pioneering families who settled over 6 generations ago.  Your visit to a Greenshell Mussel farm will leave you in no doubt as to why this delicacy grows so well in the Sounds. Taste this local treat – freshly steamed mussels matched perfectly to a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

Country Life Wine 

If you are looking for an exclusive wine tour through the Marlborough region, look no further.  Local wine owners host and guide visitors on their private propitor. Enjoy morning tea and taste local olive oils as you visit several private gardens. Have lunch in one of the regions best restaurant and taste Marlborough’s best wines. This is a great way to discover Marlborough and the learn about oncology and the regions history.

Wine Cycling 

The Marlborough Region is New Zealand’s premier wine growing region and world famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay varieties. Today visit a selection of Marlborough's famous vineyards, enjoy the tastes and soak up the atmosphere. Blenheim, the provincial capital, is located in the lower Wairau Valley and enjoys excellent sunny weather suitable for both outdoor activities and ripening grapes. Over 40 wineries can be explored by bike along quiet back roads, and all within a 10km radius. We will select a route that caters to the preferences of our group to partake in wine tasting, gourmet food, crafts or just cycling on these quiet country roads.


Pricing terms

The price is based on current exchange rates but is only an approximation. Please contact us for a final price