New Zealand Pinot Noir at a Glance
Pinot Noir is New Zealand's leading red wine export and second-largest wine export variety overall.
Key Statistics:
5,642 hectares planted in Pinot Noir across New Zealand.
Pinot Noir is New Zealand's leading red wine export.
Second-largest export variety overall, behind Sauvignon Blanc.
New Zealand wine is exported to more than 100 countries worldwide.
New Zealand wine exports were worth NZ$2.10 billion in 2025.
Around 90% of New Zealand wine is exported.
Marlborough is New Zealand's largest Pinot Noir-producing region, with approximately 2,663 hectares planted.
Why Pinot Noir is Having a Moment
Consumers are increasingly embracing lighter, fresher wine styles that offer versatility and drinkability.
Pinot Noir delivers:
Bright fruit flavours
Natural freshness
Moderate alcohol
Food friendliness
Year-round appeal
The ability to be enjoyed lightly chilled
Industry reporting notes that lighter, refreshing wine styles are currently outperforming broader wine category growth, aligning strongly with the characteristics of New Zealand Pinot Noir.
Taste Profile
New Zealand Pinot Noir is renowned for:
Cherry
Raspberry
Plum
Wild berry fruit
Floral aromatics
Gentle spice
Savoury complexity
The wines are typically medium-bodied, elegant and vibrant, with a long, refreshing finish.
Food Pairing
Pinot Noir is often regarded as one of the world's most versatile food wines.
Perfect pairings include:
Salmon
Duck
Lamb
Pork
Mushroom dishes
Charcuterie
Soft and hard cheeses
Sustainability
New Zealand wine is produced under one of the world's most highly adopted sustainability programmes.
Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand (SWNZ) has been operating for 30 years.
SWNZ certification covers 98% of New Zealand's vineyard area and approximately 90% of wine produced.
New Zealand Pinot Noir in Three Numbers
#1 exported red wine variety in New Zealand.
5,642 ha planted nationwide.
Regarded as one of the world's most versatile food wines.
International Pinot Noir Day
International Pinot Noir Day is an annual celebration of one of the world's most admired grape varieties, held 18 August.
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