Hawke's Bay wines are recognised worldwide for their quality and diversity. With over 80% of New Zealand’s plantings of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes, Hawke’s Bay has a reputation for superior quality red wines. The warm maritime climate and varying landscape also produces New Zealand’s richest and most complex Chardonnays.

 

Hawke's Bay is situated on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, 300km North of Marlborough and 360km South of Auckland. The region has three main centres; Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.

 
It is the oldest fine wine region in New Zealand and one of the most important. Hawke's Bay is one of the sunniest areas in New Zealand with an annual average of over 2200 hours of sunshine.

 

The temperate climate allows a long growing season. Soils and mesoclimates are extremely diverse. Westerly winds prevail in spring and summer and hot, dry north-westerly winds can cause droughts. Late spring frosts have recently become increasingly disruptive for viticulture. Pest and disease pressure is generally low.