Auckland/Northland

Auckland and Northland are small regions near the tip of New Zealand’s North Island. The two most popular varieties are Chardonnay
and Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced, but is gradually being replaced with Merlot and Cabernet Franc because the region’s warm, wet climate creates thick foliage on the vines and makes it difficult for Cabernet Sauvignon to fully ripen. The Kumeu River subregion in Auckland is particularly well known for its dense, complex Chardonnay made in the Burgundian style. Winemakers here ferment the wine in oak barrels instead of stainless steel and regularly stir the lees to give the wine a nutty, complex flavor.