Since the first vines were planted in 1973, Marlborough has grown to become New Zealand's largest and best known winegrowing region. Worldwide interest in Marlborough wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc, has continued to fuel this regional wine boom. The free-draining, alluvial loams and abundant sunshine with cool nights and a long growing season helps to build and maintain the vibrant and zesty fruit flavours for which Marlborough is now famous. Sauvignon Blanc is the most planted grape variety with Chardonnay in second place, followed by Pinot Noir and Riesling. Sauvignon Blanc may be the star but Marlborough has also earned an enviable reputation for Méthode Traditionelle sparkling wines as well as a wide range of both white and red table wines.
