NZ is a fabulous place to grow things and many people I met had been fruit farmers for years. Apple orchards give way to vineyards now and there's no doubt that natural growing conditions and farming instincts can produce lovely tasting wines in this country. It is not the cheapest part of the work to produce quality fruit - the effort in netting vines against birds is a huge cost that Europeans just don't have to consider. Irrigation is another cost many convinced me was necessary, although others let the vines struggle more. But the fact is that the world of wine drinkers love the flavours of NZ wines and so the prices are never going to be the cheapest. I tasted some gorgeous Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays amongst the zingy Sauvignon Blancs. They are very excited by their Pinot Grigios but I'm not yet convinced the premiums they charge for that variety will sell so well in this country.
