A wine paradise on the other side of the world
New Zealand red wines are one of the most fascinating expressions of the New World of wine, combining the freshness of the maritime climate with a purity of fruit and precision of production that have won over even the most demanding palates. This remote archipelago, characterised by extraordinary climatic and geological diversity, offers ideal conditions for quality viticulture: long, moderate summers, significant temperature variations between day and night, and intense sunlight that promotes perfect phenolic ripening. New Zealand's young wine industry, free from the burden of rigid traditions, has developed an approach that combines technological innovation and deep respect for the terroir, with a particular focus on environmental sustainability. Our selection explores the different wine-growing regions of the archipelago, from Central Otago and Marlborough on the South Island to Martinborough and Hawke's Bay on the North Island, favouring producers who authentically interpret the different microclimates and who are contributing to New Zealand's reputation as a source of red wines of extraordinary finesse, territorial character and recognisability.
Pinot Noir: the red gold of the Antipodes
The beating heart of our collection is Pinot Noir, a grape variety that has found extraordinary purity and elegance in New Zealand, particularly in the cool valleys of the South Island. Central Otago, the southernmost wine-growing region in the world, produces world-class Pinot Noir, characterised by a vibrant aromatic profile of red fruits (raspberry, cherry, wild strawberry), floral notes of violet and rose, and a distinctive minerality, supported by a silky tannic structure and a bright acidity that gives it extraordinary tension on the palate and ageing potential. Our selection also highlights the more immediate and fruity interpretations from Marlborough and the more structured and complex ones from Martinborough, thus offering a complete overview of the different regional expressions of this noble grape variety. From a stylistic point of view, we favour producers who seek finesse and balance rather than concentration and power, with vinification methods that respect the varietal and territorial character: fermentation with varying percentages of whole bunches, delicate extraction and measured use of new wood, for wines that authentically express the purity and luminous intensity of New Zealand terroirs.
Syrah and other gems: the other side of New Zealand
In addition to Pinot Noir, our selection explores other varieties that are emerging as protagonists of New Zealand winemaking. Syrah from Hawke's Bay, particularly from the Gimblett Gravels sub-region with its characteristic alluvial soils, represents one of the most exciting expressions of this grape variety in the New World, with wines that combine the typical spiciness of northern Rhône Syrah with a purity of fruit and a distinctively New Zealand freshness. Aromas of black pepper, dark fruits, black olives and violets develop on an elegant structure and finely chiselled tannins, far removed from the sometimes excessive power of Australian interpretations. Our collection also includes excellent examples of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, mainly from Hawke's Bay, as well as interesting Bordeaux blends that showcase New Zealand's potential with these more traditional varieties. Our selection favours producers committed to sustainable practices – organic, biodynamic or regenerative viticulture – that reflect New Zealanders' deep connection to their unspoilt natural environment and their pioneering vision of winemaking that respects the land and future generations.
