This Friday, 26 March 2021, Méthode Marlborough will be launching their inaugural Méthode Marlborough Day with a special event celebrating their 12 sparkling wine members.

Méthode Marlborough Day is a chance to celebrate the conclusion of Marlborough’s ‘sparkling wine’ harvest, which happens earlier than that of still wine, and to recognize the superb quality of traditional method sparkling wines produced in the Marlborough region.

The group is encouraging New Zealanders to choose a méthode traditionnelle from the range of Méthode Marlborough wines to enjoy on this day or over the weekend.

“Selecting a Méthode Marlborough is an assurance of quality when choosing a sparkling wine,” says Dan Taylor, Méthode Marlborough Chair. “Our group is dedicated to producing sparkling wines in the traditional method of Champagne. But we are crafting our wines right here in the centre of New Zealand, so whilst you are confidently purchasing a bottle of delicious and premium méthode, you are also supporting local.”

The fruit for sparkling wines is generally harvested earlier than that of still wine to ensure moderate sugar levels and higher acid levels. Marlborough is known for its high sunshine hours and cool nights. It’s this combination of climate and terroir that will produce a crisp and zesty wine which can age beautifully. And it’s these ingredients that are essential for quality méthode traditionnelle.

“When I first visited Marlborough in 1978 I was immediately convinced this was the best place in New Zealand to produce méthode traditionelle,” says Daniel Le Brun, owner and winemaker at No.1 Family Estate. “The soil and the climate reminded me of Champagne in the best vintage years, yet it happens every year here in Marlborough.”

“The second earliest harvest to date for Nautilus, our 2021 vintage commenced on 17 Feb with Pinot Noir destined for our Vintage Rosé. Our Méthode Marlborough colleagues weren’t far behind with all members starting to pick by early March,” says Nautilus Estate’s winemaker Clive Jones. “With lower crops and warm weather through the ripening season this early start to harvest was anticipated. Fruit has been perfectly balanced so far and we look forward to seeing the resulting wines develop over the coming 24 months.”

The inaugural Méthode Marlborough Day is on track to celebrate an idyllic sparkling harvest. The 12 member wineries will be leading the way by taking a moment out of their busy day of vintage to toast each other and the year ahead. They will share their moments via social media and hope that you will too!

The affiliated launch event ‘An Evening with Méthode Marlborough’ will be another opportunity to celebrate with friends. Visiting three méthode winery destinations, guests will learn about and experience the quality, diversity and versatility of sparkling wines produced by Méthode Marlborough members. The progressive evening sold out early, and will be a relaxed and social event that showcases the very best of Marlborough.

Méthode Marlborough Members:

About Méthode Marlborough:

Méthode Marlborough is a collaborative group of wineries committed to producing world class sparkling wine from the vast range available in New Zealand. All Méthode Marlborough wines are made in the traditional method which means the second fermentation is in the bottle, followed by the intricate riddling and disgorging process.

This produces the finest and most persistent bead. Additionally, all these wines are aged for a minimum of 18 months before disgorging takes place. This allows complex flavours to develop, balancing fresh and fruit driven character with savoury notes of toast and brioche.

Méthode Marlborough is dedicated to making and promoting wines made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. This trio of varieties is internationally recognized as a benchmark style by sparkling wine producers around the world.

Website – methodemarlborough.org

Facebook & Instagram – @methodemarlborough

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