New Zealand produces only 1% of the world’s wine, but has an international presence and reputation that far exceeds that, due to its diversity, world-leading focus on sustainability, and of course its distinctly New Zealand expression in the glass. Though now rightfully regarded as the home of Sauvignon Blanc (the grape does make up 60% of plantings there), this tiny, amazingly diverse Island country has proven it does not just grow Savvy, or Zorb-riding daredevillers, or sheep. Even though you can fit 3.5 New Zealands into the province of BC and our populations are on par (approximately 4.5 million coastal-loving folks), New Zealand is 4th in the world for pinot noir production, behind France, USA and Germany. Tucked away in a remote, unspoilt, oceanic landscape 94% of New Zealand vineyard areas operate under sustainable programs, and the entire country has a goal of 90% renewable energy sources across the board by 2025.
