Northland

New Zealand's first grape plantings were in Northland. James Busby brought grapes into New Zealand around 1836. Today, vines grow in pockets from Karikari in the north to Mangawhai in the south. Growing conditions are mild, humid and windy, with almost subtropical weather and varied soils and exposures. Chardonnay is a major grape. Riper examples can have melon, fig, stone-fruit and citrus flavours, while earlier-picked wines are crisper and lighter. Syrah is usually medium-bodied, with gentle drying tannins and spicy berry, plum and floral notes. Pinot Gris is often full-bodied, with peach, spice and gingerbread notes. Most is made without oak, though some wines spend time in previously used oak barrels.