It is no coincidence that New Zealand’s most famous wine region has the largest grape production and the highest sunshine hours in the country.

Marlborough far exceeds the output of any other region. This viticultural superpower is expanding rapidly throughout the silty, gravel strewn alluvial loams of the Wairau and Awatere Valleys. The free-draining soils in these ancient floodplains along with abundant sunshine provide ideal growing conditions. The cool nights and long growing season bring out the vibrant fruity flavours in Sauvignon Blanc, which is the dominant variety. Chardonnay is also significant followed by Pinot Noir and Riesling. The region also has the enviable reputation of producing New Zealand’s finest Methode Champenoise sparkling wines.

The Wairau Valley has a close-knit grouping of over 40 wineries along the Renwick and Rapaura Roads and extending into Waihopai Valley. The discerning wine traveller will soon discover that this is essential viewing and sampling territory. Base yourself at either Blenheim or Renwick and celebrate the glorious bounty of nature on the Wairau. The Awatere Valley is a short drive southeast of Blenheim and includes around 20 vineyard sites on the valley floor and across the Wither Hills.

Marlborough is internationally renowned for its wines, and vineyard owners have created exceptional wining and dining facilities on their premises. They host thousands of visitors during the ‘Marlborough Wine and Food Festival’ each February.

The super-abundance of wines and high-quality local foods such as salmon, mussels, oysters, blue cod, fruit and olive oil has encouraged Marlborough to dub itself the ‘Gourmet Capital of New Zealand’.

The beauty of this region is very evident in the Marlborough Sounds and the picturesque town of Picton where you can kayak or cruise on sparkling waters or walk the scenic Queen Charlotte Track.

Come to Marlborough and taste the best of New Zealand’s food and wine.