Nelson – click to enlarge

The Nelson wine region, located at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its vibrant arts community and boutique wineries. Surrounded by mountains and bordered by the Tasman Bay, the region enjoys a stunning coastal setting. Nelson is approximately a 30-minute drive from Nelson City, 1.5 hours (110 kilometres) from Blenheim, and about 6 hours (400 kilometres) from Christchurch by car. Its proximity to national parks and pristine beaches makes it a popular destination for wine and nature enthusiasts.

The region is divided into two main sub-regions. Waimea Plains is located closer to the coast, and this area features fertile alluvial soils that produce aromatic whites and elegant reds. The flat terrain allows for efficient vineyard management and consistent grape quality. Moutere Hills is known for its clay-rich soils and slightly elevated vineyards. This sub-region offers wines with greater texture and complexity. The Moutere Hills are particularly suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Nelson’s winemaking history dates back to the 1840s when German settlers planted vines. Commercial viticulture began in earnest in the 1970s, spearheaded by pioneering winemakers seeking to capitalize on the region’s unique terroir, with iconic names such as Seifried Estate and Neudorf Vineyards still going strong.

Nelson’s boutique wineries have since gained a reputation for crafting premium wines with a focus on quality and sustainability. Today, Nelson is celebrated as a dynamic wine region and one of the best regions in New Zealand for aromatic whites like Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer.

The region is one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions, boasting over 2,400 hours of sunshine annually. Its temperate maritime climate features warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Cooling sea breezes from Tasman Bay and cold mountain air from the surrounding ranges provide excellent conditions for slow, even grape ripening. This climate promotes the development of vibrant fruit flavours and balanced acidity, hallmarks of Nelson wines.

Nelson’s boutique wineries, stunning landscapes, and artistic flair make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc by the Tasman Bay or exploring the textured complexities of a Moutere Hills Pinot Noir, Nelson offers an unforgettable wine experience.

Nelson Sauvignon Blanc is known for its refined elegance compared to the bold, grassy styles of Marlborough. Expect bright citrus flavours like lime and grapefruit, complemented by tropical fruit notes and a crisp minerality. The coastal influence lends a refreshing vibrancy to these wines. The region had 621 hectares under planting in 2024.

The region’s cool climate produces Pinot Noir with finesse and complexity. The wines often exhibit red cherry, plum, and subtle earthy notes, with soft tannins and balanced acidity. The Moutere Hills sub-region is particularly known for its textured and age-worthy Pinot Noir. The region had 164 hectares under planting in 2024.

Nelson Pinot Gris is aromatic and full-bodied, with pear, apple, and spice flavours. These wines often exhibit a lush mouthfeel and can range from dry to off-dry styles. The sunny climate allows for optimal ripeness, creating balanced, fruit-forward expressions. The region had 111 hectares under planting in 2024.

Chardonnay from Nelson ranges from rich and oaky to clean and unoaked styles. Typical flavours include peach, citrus, and hazelnut, often with a creamy texture. The clay soils of the Moutere Hills add depth and structure to these wines. The region had 109 hectares under planting in 2024.

Riesling thrives in Nelson’s sunny yet cool conditions, producing wines with vibrant acidity and intense citrus and stone fruit flavours. These wines can range from dry to sweet, with many developing complex honeyed notes as they age.

Source:  www.nzwine.com,