Nelson lies at the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island, where high sunshine and a sheltered coastal climate meet free-draining, semi-fertile soils. German settlers planted the first wine grapevines here in the mid-1800s. Pioneering producers established the modern industry in the 1970s.
Moutere Hills and Waimea Plains give Nelson its two main wine expressions. West of Nelson city, Moutere is slightly warmer and wetter, with gravel-threaded clay soils. Its wines are richer and more structured, with fine-tannined Pinot Noir, deep Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc and aromatic wines that can show mineral intensity. Waimea has seen most recent vineyard expansion. Its stony alluvial soils and maritime influence bring lighter, fresher, brightly aromatic wines.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and aromatic grapes lead the region, alongside emerging varieties. Sauvignon Blanc can combine texture and minerality with tropical fruit and fresh herbs. Pinot Noir is perfumed, Pinot Gris has poised acidity and rich flavours, and Chardonnay can have depth and intensity.
Inside the region
1 named area
Each guide keeps its place within Nelson clear, with a direct route back to the map.
Producer profiles
Producer profiles
Open the full directory when you want every producer currently placed in Nelson.
- Kahurangi EstateBoutique Nelson estate with the oldest commercial vines in New Zealand's South Island, planted 1973.