Winery Tourism Practice Exam

Sauvignon Blanc is the most popular wine variety in New Zealand. The climate across much of the country, especially in Marlborough, suits this variety well, producing bright, crisp wines with expressive aromatics and tropical fruit notes. This combination—great drinkability, consistent quality, and strong export demand—has made Sauvignon Blanc the defining NZ wine and the one you’ll most often see in both local and international markets. Pinot Noir is also highly regarded in NZ and shines in regions like Central Otago, but it doesn’t match Sauvignon Blanc in overall production or popularity. Chardonnay is widely grown and enjoyed, yet still trails Sauvignon Blanc in what’s most commonly consumed and exported. Merlot is produced, but it is far less dominant on NZ’s wine scene.