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Wairarapa
New Zealand
Top Subregions: GladstoneMartinboroughWairarapa
Region Description
Wairarapa is a wine region located in the southern part of New Zealand's North Island, known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay wines. The region has a cool climate with long, dry summers and mild winters, which allows for a long growing season and slow ripening of the grapes. The soils in Wairarapa are predominantly free-draining alluvial gravels, which are well-suited to growing premium wine grapes.
Grapes & Wine Styles
The main grape varieties grown in Wairarapa are Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Pinot Noir is the most widely planted variety and is known for producing elegant, complex wines with flavors of red fruit, spice, and earthy notes. Sauvignon Blanc is also widely planted and produces crisp, aromatic wines with tropical fruit and herbaceous flavors. Chardonnay is less common but can produce rich, full-bodied wines with flavors of stone fruit and citrus.
Notable Producers
The main grape varieties grown in Wairarapa are Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Pinot Noir is the most widely planted variety and is known for producing elegant, complex wines with flavors of red fruit, spice, and earthy notes. Sauvignon Blanc is also widely planted and produces crisp, aromatic wines with tropical fruit and herbaceous flavors. Chardonnay is less common but can produce rich, full-bodied wines with flavors of stone fruit and citrus.
Fun Fact about Wairarapa
The Wairarapa is also home to a replica model of Stonehenge.
Top Wines from Wairarapa
Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc Te Muna Road Vineyard
Craggy Range
Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc Te Muna is a premium white wine that showcases the best of New Zealand's winemaking prowess. Produced by Craggy Range, a renowned winery known for its commitment to quality, this Sauvignon Blanc comes from the Te Muna vineyard in Martinborough. The vineyard features stony soils and a cool climate, which impart distinctive characteristics to the wine. Made with meticulous winemaking techniques, this Sauvignon Blanc exudes intense aromatics of tropical fruits, citrus, and fresh herbs. Its vibrant acidity, crispness, and purity of fruit flavors make it a refreshing and lively wine, perfect for enjoying on its own or pairing with seafood or light dishes. Craggy Range Sauvignon Blanc Te Muna is a true expression of New Zealand's terroir, offering a unique and memorable wine experience.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Salad
Vegetable
Cheese
Ata Rangi Pinot Noir
Ata Rangi
Ata Rangi Pinot Noir is a premium wine produced by Ata Rangi, a renowned winery located in the Martinborough appellation of New Zealand. The vineyard features a unique terroir with alluvial soils and a cool climate, which allows for slow ripening of the grapes and the development of complex flavors. The winemaking process involves handpicking the grapes and fermenting them with wild yeasts, resulting in a wine that is true to its terroir. Ata Rangi Pinot Noir is known for its elegant and refined style, with notes of red fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. It is a perfect representation of the Martinborough appellation and a must-try for Pinot Noir lovers.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Duck And Goose
Mushroom
Craggy Range Pinot Noir
Craggy Range
Craggy Range Pinot Noir is a highly sought-after wine that showcases the expertise of its producer. Crafted in a renowned appellation, this wine is sourced from exceptional vineyards known for their unique features. The winemaking process is meticulous, ensuring that only the finest grapes are selected and handled with care. The resulting wine is a true reflection of its terroir, with a style that is elegant and refined. With its complex flavors, velvety texture, and balanced acidity, Craggy Range Pinot Noir is a standout choice for wine enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Read more Food Pairing:
Duck And Goose
Pork
Salmon
Escarpment Vineyard Pinot Noir
Escarpment Vineyard
Escarpment Vineyard Pinot Noir is a highly sought-after wine that showcases the expertise of its producer. Hailing from a prestigious appellation, this wine is crafted from grapes grown in a vineyard with unique features that contribute to its exceptional quality. The winemaking process involves careful attention to detail, resulting in a wine that beautifully captures the essence of the region. With its elegant style, this Pinot Noir offers a harmonious balance of flavors and aromas. Its smooth texture and refined tannins make it a delightful choice for wine enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Read more Food Pairing:
Duck And Goose
Mushroom
Beef
Ata Rangi Raranga Sauvignon Blanc
Ata Rangi
Ata Rangi Raranga Sauvignon Blanc is a premium wine produced by Ata Rangi, a renowned winery located in the Martinborough appellation of New Zealand. The vineyard features a unique terroir with alluvial soils and a cool climate, which allows for slow ripening and optimal flavor development in the grapes. The winemaking process involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve the delicate aromas and flavors of the Sauvignon Blanc grapes. The resulting wine is crisp, refreshing, and vibrant, with notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and herbs. It is a perfect match for seafood, salads, and light dishes, and a must-try for Sauvignon Blanc lovers.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Vegetable
Bruschetta And Crostini