Marlborough is the crown jewel of the New Zealand wine industry. While other areas can rightfully take pride in their growing reputations, it is Marlborough that has gained New Zealand a permanent place on center stage with the world's top wine producers. About a quarter century ago, commercial plantings were started; some astute growers recognized the ideal conditions for Sauvignon Blanc and by the nineties, Marlborough was rewriting the book for that variety.

The greater Marlborough region covers several sub-regions and Nelson will be shown with its own designation. Located on the northest corner of the South Island, its about a half hour drive from the Picton ferry terminal. The main area is a ten mile valley between Renwick and Blenheim, south of the Wairau River. About a dozen miles south of Blenheim is the Awatere Valley. With land becoming ever-more expensive in the Wairau Valley, many producers are establishing plantings in Awatere to carry Marlborough on their label.

Blenheim has grown from quiet town to bustling small city supporting the wine industry. Driving up from the south, on the outskirts of town, you encounter the visitor center and tank farm of Montana Brancott. Take a turn to the left and head on out toward Renwick. On Jackson Road, there is Marlborough's answer to the Jackson Five: Cloudy Bay, Allan Scott, Jackson Estate, Cairnbrae Vineyards and Stoneleigh Vineyards.

Here is the list of wineries: