Welcome to Gisborne, the vibrant gem nestled on the easternmost tip of the North Island of New Zealand. With its Pacific maritime influence, Gisborne boasts a unique winemaking region that recently surprised me during my first visit. Let me take you on a journey through this coastal destination, where I discovered the secrets of its renowned Chardonnay and so much more.

 

Gisborne may be the fifth-largest wine region in New Zealand, but it has a charm of its own. With 1,245 hectares of vineyards, this beautiful region has a rich tapestry of grape varieties. Chardonnay reigns supreme, with 582 hectares planted, followed by Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Gewurztraminer. You’ll also find minuscule portions of over 17 different varieties, including Syrah, Petite Manseng, Tempranillo and Glera, showcasing the diversity and experimentation that Gisborne embraces.

 

Once known as the Chardonnay capital of New Zealand, Gisborne’s wine landscape has evolved in recent years. While vineyards have been replanted with other fruits such as kiwi, persimmons, and citrus, a few large regional companies continue to drive most wine production, including Indevin, Gisvin, and Leaderbrand. However, there are also passionate growers who produce their own exceptional wines, adding a touch of artisanal craftsmanship to the mix.

 

During my visit, I had the pleasure of attending part of the Chardonnay Affair weekend, an annual celebration of Gisborne’s finest Chardonnays.

 

The three-day event kicked off Friday night with the Chardonnay Fling at Black House, overlooking the breathtaking Wainui Beach. Imagine being surrounded by a sea of white outfits, indulging in glasses of exquisite Chardonnay while live music fills the air. I heard it was an enchanting evening that set the tone for the weekend ahead.

The festivities continued with Chardonnay In The Vines at Bushmere Estate, a picturesque winery that hosted a five-course long lunch amidst the beautiful vineyards. Unfortunately, I landed after the lunch had started; I took the opportunity to expand my knowledge during an afternoon Chardonnay Masterclass at Matawhero Wines, guided by the expertise of Sophie Parker-Thomson MW. Exploring a lineup of ten exceptional Chardonnays, I was captivated by the region’s depth and diversity, with generous fruit flavour and weight.

 

Sunday brought a delightful surprise as we boarded The Chardonnay Express, a meticulously restored historic steam train. As WA 165 chugged along, we enjoyed a scenic hour-long journey through the countryside, heading towards Muriwai. The sun shone brightly as we disembarked, greeted by live music, wine stations, and delectable food offerings. Surrounded by fellow Chardonnay enthusiasts, it was an unforgettable experience that showcased the warmth and camaraderie of Gisborne’s wine community.

 

Beyond the event, I took an extra day to explore Gisborne’s wineries and vineyards, immersing myself in the region’s essence. Gisborne’s unique geographical features play a significant role in shaping its wines. Being the first place in New Zealand to witness the sunrise, the Pacific Ocean moderates the warm, dry climate, while cooling afternoon sea breezes help maintain the grapes’ vibrant acidity. Mountain ranges and hills to the North and North-West provide shelter, and the predominantly clay and silt soils, rich in fertility and water retention, enable dry-farming practices.

 

These natural elements contribute to Gisborne’s remarkable wines, characterized by abundant fruit aromas, refreshing acidity, and a weighty mouthfeel.

 

If you’re a wine lover seeking a genuine experience, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Gisborne. The lovely people I met on this trip made it extra special. Whether you indulge in the Chardonnay Affair or embark on your own vineyard exploration, Gisborne will fill your bucket and leave an indelible mark on your wine journey.

 

Stay tuned for my next blog, where I’ll share more about my wine-filled winery visits to Gisborne.