Kingfisher Bay, Marlborough, New Zealand

KINGFISHER BAY: HOME OF THE KINGFISHER

Wine estate Kingfisher Bay refers to the 'Halcyon vagan' the kingfisher (Kinfisher) on its label, in New Zealand this bird seemed to have almost disappeared but it seems that the bird with its characteristic green and blue plumage , is making a comeback. Kingfisher Bay supports the activities to protect this bird. Kingfisher Bay is an estate where it is not only about great dusting Sauvignon Blancs but also sustainability and an eye for nature are of great importance. New Zealand is known as a small country but from north to south it is still 1600 kilometers long. It consists of the North and South Island . On the North Island we distinguish the wine regions Hawke's Bay, Gisborne, Auckland, Wairarapa and Waikito Bay . The South Island has its well-known regions Nelson, Canterbury, Otago, Waitaka and Marlborough, where the estate Kingfisher Bay is located. Wine growing has only been known on the island for about 30 years. However, this is growing very fast. The total vineyard area is already more than 17,000 hectares. Not all grape growers are also wine producers, often they sell their grapes for cooperative interest.

PIONEER JAMES BUSBY

In 1819, an English minister planted the first vine on the island. Later, another Englishman, a pioneer in the wine field, James Busby, made the first wine. He is considered the first to successfully sell this to the English troops. New Zealand has had a lot of trouble adapting to producing dry white wines over the years. The then widely planted Muller Thurgau was not suitable for this, but the Sauvignon Blanc was chosen, it was discovered that this could rise to unprecedented quality heights, especially in Marlborough.

THE MECCA OF SAUVIGNON BLANC

Characteristic is the abundance of sunshine, especially in the autumn. The Sauvignon Blanc thrives in this and this area is also known for its complex, aromatic Sauvignon. The long maturation process contributes well to the quality wines that the area produces.