New Zealand wine

New Zealand wine

　　New Zealand's major grape-growing regions are located in the dry, sun-drenched eastern part of the country, including three key areas: Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, and Mal'lbolough. Other major regions include Auckland, Martinborough, Nelson, and Central Otago. These regions span 1,600 kilometers along latitudes 36 to 45 degrees—comparable to the stretch from Bordeaux (latitudes 44 to 46 degrees) to southern Spain in the Northern Hemisphere. With such a climate and soil perfectly suited for viticulture, a diverse range of wine styles have emerged. Wine tourism in New Zealand is increasingly popular, and industry players often encourage visitors to explore wineries and take part in events along the “Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.” Several major wine-producing areas host annual food and wine festivals, and most wineries offer tastings to visitors. Many large wineries also operate restaurants and cafés, as well as providing retail and online sales.