new zealand
CONTENTS
Includes: Sparkling, Sauvignon Blanc & Blends, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurtztraminer, Other White Varietals & Blends, Rosé, Pinot Noir, Merlot & Blends, Cabernet Sauvignon & Blends, Other Red Varietals & Blends, Syrah, Sweet Whites & Fortified.
COPING WITH COVID AND RISING TO THE CHALLENGE
The New Zealand year in review, by Emma Jenkins MW
“The industry was acutely aware that it was in an incredibly privileged position to be allowed to pick the grapes. Throughout the entire lockdown our number one priority remained – ensuring the safety of our people and our communities. The fact that harvest was completed safely, testifies to how our industry fully embraced the challenges to meet the strict Covid-19 requirements.”
“WHEN the going gets weird, the weird turn pro’…I’ve always wanted to use a Hunter S. Thompson quote and the 2020 vintage presented the perfect opportunity,” laughs Nga Waka’s Roger Parkinson in Martinborough. “I haven’t been as excited about a vintage at this stage since the classic 2000 vintage. As always, time will tell, but we may well see some legendary Martinborough wines.” Indeed, the 2020 vintage is one the New Zealand wine industry won’t soon forget. For an agonizing 48 hours after the strict nationwide Covid-19 lockdown restrictions were announced, it was unclear if wineries would be designated as an ‘essential service’ and thus able to continue to harvest. The relief at the positive decision on March 24th was palpable. The March 25th Level 4 lockdown mandated anyone not in a permitted ‘essential business or service’ (i.e. supermarkets and their supply chains, petrol stations and healthcare), to reside at home until further notice, which turned out to be May 13th, though some easing began April 27th. Even with permission to harvest, there were detailed restrictions for worker ‘bubbles’ across vineyards, wineries and places of residence. Wineries needed to submit individual management plans, and there were
