By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
The Oceanic rivalry for bragging rights on the football field shows no signs of slowing down and the debate over the rightful ownership of the sweet pavlova similarly continues. However, the latest campaign by Australia's Antipodean neighbours is worth raising a glass to.
‘Pour Yourself a Glass of New Zealand’ is an invitation to celebrate some of the finest white wines of our Kiwi counterparts, without having to book a Trans-Tasman flight.
With May marking a trifecta of white wine celebrations across the globe - including International Sauvignon Blanc Day on May 2, International Pinot Gris Day on May 17 and International Chardonnay Day on May 22 - New Zealand Wines is offering an array of delicious excuses to explore the incredible array of local white wines and, maybe even discover a new favourite.
From the lush vineyards of Marlborough to the sun-drenched slopes of Hawke’s Bay, Aotearoa’s wine regions are brimming with varietals that punch well above their weight.
An excellent place to start is the nation’s Sauvignon Blancs. While these fruity bubbles may have put The Land of the Long White Cloud on the global wine map, bottles of Pinot Gris - bursting with juicy pear, apple notes and a hint of spice - have helped keep it there.
More recent stars at the NZ bubbly bash include the islands’ Chardonnays, as well as a selection of Methode Traditionelle sparkling wines - think nutty, biscuity aromas balanced by zippy acidity and subtle fruit.
Even Riesling, with its lusciously sweet and always zingy freshness and (often overlooked) Gewurztraminer - known for silky textures and captivating fragrances - are handled beautifully in New Zealand’s cool climate - both deserve celebration.
Although May is generally an opportune time to wave the white (wine) flag, the country’s reds are equally show-stopping any time of the year.
In particular, Pinot Noir stars in cooler regions like Central Otago. It’s vibrant, expressive and full of cherry, plum and spice. Alternatively, if you like your reds a little bolder, Syrah from Hawke’s Bay delivers peppery richness and velvety smoothness. Rosé lovers? New Zealand does that too - think Summer berries, gentle acidity and a creamy finish.
Despite producing just 1% of the world’s wine, New Zealand offers an impressively diverse and high-quality selection. Four varieties - Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris - make up the bulk of the production, but winemakers are also experimenting with everything from Albarino to Zinfandel.
It’s a small country doing big things in wine and this May is the perfect time to get sipping. Your taste buds will thank you. You might just give credit to the Kiwis for doing something as well as their Aussie cousins - we’re not just talking about taking credit for Russell Crowe!
