Gisborne wine region

Gisborne is one of New Zealand's most important grape growing regions, the third largest in the country. New Zealand lies between the 35th and 45th parallels - between Morocco and Bordeaux. Gisborne is on the same parallel as Malaga, Spain and Melbourne, Australia.

Rainfall averages 900-1000mm per annum. Heat summation is 1400-1500 GDD.  Sunshine hours average 2186 per annum. The dominant soil type is loam (silt and clay).

Gisborne produces a broad varietal mix and diversity of wine styles, reflecting the different soil types and meso-climates of the region.

Revered as a top Chardonnay-producing area, Gisborne also has a celebrated reputation for Gewurztraminer. This goes back to the 1970s, when Matawhero was making New Zealand's first benchmark Gewurztraminers.

More recently, some fine Viognier, Pinot Gris and Chenin Blanc wines have emerged, along with sparkling wines. Reds are also becoming increasingly popular, with excellent Merlots, Malbec, Pinotage and even the occasional Syrah being produced.

Gisborne's wine growing area is made up of several distinct localities, each with their own unique soil and climatic features. See Growing Areas for more information.