South Island

Region Hierarchy
Climate(s) Cool Maritime, Cool Continental
Notes: Most vineyards on the eastern side to be protected from rainy, westerly winds.
Elevation
Notes Much of the soil drains well, but flat lands can be overly fertile.
Grape(s)
Color Grape Notes
Red Pinot Noir (Nero) Grape Widely planted
New Zealand notes: New Zealand's premier red grape. Vibrant fruit, fine ripe tannins, soft texture.
Grape notes: Low tannins due to thin skin. Susceptible to rot. Early budding and ripening.
White Chardonnay Grape
White Pinot Gris (Grigio) Grape Grape notes: Early budding and ripening.
Two main styles:
1. Harvested early. Dry, light body, medium-to-high acidity and simple flavors.
2. Delayed harvesting. Full body, medium acidity and complex flavors.
White Riesling Grape Grape notes: Susceptible to botrytis
White Sauvignon Blanc Grape New Zealand notes: New Zealand's premier white grape.
Grape notes: This is an aromatic grape; its nose intensity will likely be pronounced.
Wines(s)
Type Wine Notes
Sparkling Rosé Other type of Sparkling Rosé Wine Wine notes: Made from blending red and white base wines or with a short maceration.
Sparkling White Other type of Sparkling White Wine
Still Red Pinot Noir Wine Wine notes: Burgundy Pinot Noir is typically drunk young.
Still White Chardonnay Wine
Still White Pinot Grigio Wine (Italy)
Still White Riesling Wine
Still White Sauvignon Blanc Wine Slightly more green bell pepper and gooseberry flavors. Higher acidity than the North Island.



All content ©2026 by VentersConsulting.com (v10.3.9)