New Zealand Wine

Known for its Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Central Otago Pinot Noir, this country excels in many other varietals as well. Regions such as Hawke's Bay and Martinborough are well established and are well known locally as great viticultural areas. The region of Waipara is on the rise making great Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Robert Parker Jnr - who's been writing about wine for over 30 years - has awarded the five star ratings to a winery in the North island and four others in the South island. In his latest book The Wine Guide, Parker singles out Te Mata Estate, Ata Rangi, Felton Road, Pegasus Bay and Rippon as outstanding wine producers.