Region
Martinborough
マーティンボロ
The spiritual home of New Zealand's world-class Pinot Noir.
Small but prestigious North Island region known for elegant, Burgundy-influenced Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris from free-draining soils.
Best for: Ideal for Pinot Noir enthusiasts and those seeking intimate, high-quality boutique winery experiences.
No sub-regions registered yet.
Food Pairings
Roasted duck, grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, wild game, and earthy vegetable dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Martinborough most famous for?
- Martinborough is most famous for producing world-class, complex Pinot Noir that rivals top Burgundy in elegance and depth.
- Is Martinborough part of the Marlborough region?
- No, Martinborough is located in the Wairarapa region on the North Island, about 55 km northeast of Wellington. It is entirely distinct from Marlborough, which is on the South Island.
- What makes Martinborough's terroir special?
- The Martinborough Terrace — a raised plateau of free-draining alluvial gravel over clay — combined with a cool-continental climate, low rainfall, and strong diurnal temperature variation creates ideal conditions for producing concentrated, elegant Pinot Noir.
- When did commercial winemaking begin in Martinborough?
- Commercial viticulture began in 1979 after a landmark soil study revealed striking parallels between Martinborough's soils and those of Burgundy, France.
- What other grape varieties are grown in Martinborough besides Pinot Noir?
- While Pinot Noir dominates about 70% of vineyard area, Martinborough also produces excellent Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.