Wine enthusiasts have singled out New Zealand as one of the top destinations in the world to visit for wine.
New Zealand is increasingly embraced by backpackers and other travellers for its stunning scenery and exhilarating sports, but it is also renowned for its world-class wineries, many of which are open for public visits. Marlborough is the country's principal wine-producing region, offering 65 wineries and grapes including Pinot Noir, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
Chris Scott, who has a weekly wine podcast called the UK Wine Show, said: "The good thing about wine tourism [in New Zealand] is you get to rock up, taste some fantastic wine and great cuisine - and it's all done with a bit of chilled Kiwi style!"
New Zealand wine is popular around the world and the country exported over 20 million litres to the UK last year. According to the winemaker Montana, nearly 30 per cent of tourists have visited a foreign vineyard on holiday and it is recommended as an alternative to high-adrenaline sports for backpackers.
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