About Marlborough
If you’re a fan of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, you’ve likely heard of the iconic Marlborough wine region. Nestled at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, Marlborough is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant wine culture. This region is home to towns such as Renwick, Fairhall, Blenheim, and Picton, each contributing to the area’s rich viticultural heritage.
Marlborough’s journey into the world of wine began in 1873 when David Herd planted the region’s first vineyard in Fairhall. His early efforts laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. Fast forward a century to 1973, when Montana Wines (now known as Brancott Estate) took a leap of faith by planting new vineyards. The company faced numerous challenges as they tried to establish their vines in the rugged terrain, but their perseverance paid off. Among their experimental plantings was Sauvignon Blanc, a grape that would soon redefine New Zealand’s wine identity.
The turning point for Marlborough came in the 1980s when Ernie Hunter, founder of Hunter’s Wines, introduced the region to the global wine stage. His Sauvignon Blanc won the prestigious gold medal at The Sunday Times Vintage Festival for the best non-Chardonnay full dry white wine—a title he claimed three years in a row. This solidified Marlborough’s reputation as a world-class wine producer.
The success of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc reached new heights with the arrival of David Hohnen and his winery, Cloudy Bay. Their Sauvignon Blanc captivated wine enthusiasts around the globe, particularly in the UK, and played a pivotal role in putting Marlborough on the wine map.
Today, Marlborough is a tapestry of vineyards stretching across its sun-drenched plains and rolling hills. While Sauvignon Blanc remains the region’s flagship grape, Marlborough also produces exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and aromatic varieties such as Riesling and Pinot Gris. In a nod to the region’s humble beginnings, a small vineyard in Fairhall continues to grow Muscat, honoring the legacy of David Herd.
Whether you’re sipping a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or exploring Marlborough’s diverse wine offerings, each glass tells the story of a region that has truly come of age in the world of wine.
Wineries to Visit
Marlborough offers an abundance of wineries to explore, each with its own unique charm. During my time living in Blenheim, I had the pleasure of visiting several standout wineries that left a lasting impression.
Cloudy Bay: A visit to Cloudy Bay was a dream come true. Known for its iconic Sauvignon Blanc and elegant Pinot Noir, this winery is a must-see for any wine enthusiast. The Pinot Noir, in particular, stood out to me during my visit—rich, balanced, and a true expression of Marlborough’s terroir.
Rock Ferry: Just a short distance from Cloudy Bay, Rock Ferry is a hidden gem with a cozy, welcoming vibe. They offer a delightful range of wines, including a unique orange Pinot Gris and, of course, their superb Sauvignon Blanc. The Sauvignon Blanc was so memorable that I made sure to bring a bottle back to California with me.
Clos Henri: The story behind Clos Henri is as compelling as the wines they produce. The founder, originally from France, ventured to New Zealand after being disowned by his family. He was determined to craft exceptional wines in Marlborough. In my opinion, Clos Henri offers some of the best Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs in the region—elegant, refined, and distinctly Marlborough.
Wines to Look For
Sauvignon Blanc: If you haven’t yet experienced New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, it’s time to make it a priority. While Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs have a recognizable style—often bursting with vibrant citrus and grassy notes—each winery brings its own unique twist to this classic variety.
Pinot Noir: Marlborough’s cool climate provides the perfect conditions for growing Pinot Noir. The region’s Pinot Noirs are approachable, food-friendly, and offer a delightful balance of fruit and earthiness. A standout for me was the Pinot Noir from Clos Henri, but I also recommend exploring the sparkling wines made from Pinot Noir, where Marlborough truly excels.
Gin: While gin may not be wine, New Zealand’s gin scene is worth mentioning. I stumbled upon a gin called Roots, and it’s one of my few regrets that I didn’t bring a bottle back to the States. If you find yourself in Marlborough or even at a Total Wine & More, keep an eye out for any New Zealand gin. You won’t be disappointed.
