Region Nelson

Nelson is a two-hour drive north-west from Marlborough, located at the northern end of the South Island of New Zealand. The majority of the wineries in the area are located on the alluvial, stony loam soils of the Waimea Plains to the southwest of the town, or in the rolling hills of Upper Moutere, where the gravel and clay soils are renowned for producing wines that are dense and textural. Nelson is a cool climate area. Most of the vineyard area faces north onto Tasman Bay and receives significantly more rainfall than Marlborough, however the long daylight hours during the growing season aid in ripening and flavor concentration. Nelson is best known for top quality Chardonnay, although premium Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling and Pinot Noir are also produced in the region.