Wines: New Zealand

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Wines: New Zealand

Although vines have been planted in New Zealand for nearly 200 years dating back to 1819, it has only been relatively recently, since the 1970s, that wine production has taken off on a commercial level. The industry has grown at a phenomenal rate with exports increasing six fold in the first decade of the 21st century, and has now surpassed more traditional agricultural exports such as wool. With a combined length roughly that of California's, most of the vineyards on the two islands experience a cool maritime climate. There is a clear climatic distinction between the two. The north island is slightly colder and damper, experiencing a similar climate to Bordeaux, while the southern island is slightly warmer and drier. Many growers are diversifying their planting with other varieties, notably Pinot Gris and Riesling, however Sauvignon Blanc, the grape New Zealand established its reputation with, increased in plantings nearly 4 fold between 2005 and 2010. The red wine industry is heavily reliant upon its number one red wine grape, Pinot Noir, which in some areas such as Central Otago accounts for 78% of total plantings, as of 2009.