Gisborne

Lying on the east side of the North Island, below the Bay of Plenty, and close to the Bay of Poverty, Gisborne is the world’s most easterly wine region, lying only 100 miles away from the International Time Line. Steeped in Maori culture, it is a laid-back, sunny area.

Gisborne is the 3rd largest area of production, behind Marlborough and Hawkes Bay, and has become known as the region which produces some of the best Chardonnay. The long hours of sunshine, combined with the unique microclimate and soils, with the coastal influence work well for this grape variety.

The region is also producing some sparkling wines, and is famed for its high quality aromatic styles of wine, especially Gewurztraminer, Viognier and Riesling.