The unique characteristics of the Marlborough region owe much to the Wairau, Awatere, and Waihopai Rivers, which deposited gravelly alluvial soils, and the glacial activity in the south and inland regions which see more clay and silt loams.

The Wairau Valley is the heart of Marlborough wine country. It stretches along the Wairau River, with vineyards planted on the alluvial gravel soils, deposited over thousands of years. Blenheim is the main town and hub for the region’s wine industry, and the ideal location for growing its hallmark Sauvignon Blanc, as well as Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

The Southern Valleys include the Omaka, Fairhall, Brancott, Ben Morvan and Waihopai Valleys. They have more clay in the soil, and are heavier. A wide range of varieties are grown, according to the specific sites, with Pinot Noir and aromatic whites the most popular.

The Awatere Valley, is the most southerly of the sub-regions, lying south of the Wairau Valley. It’s cooler, drier and windier, and sites are often elevated too. The Pinot Noir is bright, and the Sauvignon Blancs have more herbaceous and minerally notes.