03/09/05 New Zealand wines, Part two

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran and today we are continuing with the final program in a three part series about the wines of New Zealand. As we discussed yesterday, during the past twenty years New Zealand has had one of the fastest growing wine industries in the world. It seems the more consumers that taste the wines the greater the demand. New Zealand is just three hours flight south of Australia but the maritime climate creates a region that grows grapes of distinct character. As a part of the new wine world, New Zealand's wines, express their unique fruit with its beautiful acidity that is evident in the reds as well as the whites. Although, most likely New Zealand will always have its reputation and production focused upon white wines, there are some impressive reds, primarily Pinot Noir, being exported. New Zealand's greatest export market is the UK and the British obsession with their Sauvignon Blanc is truly understandable. But the nature of New Zealand's geography makes this industry particularly vulnerable to the elements of the climate and transportation challenges are always a concern. This is resulting in very innovative farming methods putting much of the country at the forefront of viniculture. Take a chance on wines from New Zealand and enjoy something different. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.