Marlborough launches NZ's first wine appellation

Marlborough has launched New Zealand's first wine appellation to be known as “Appellation Marlborough Wine” (AMW). The new certification has been driven by producers and aims to help drinkers identify the top wines from Marlborough.

Appellation Marlborough Wine will mean any wine bearing the certification must have 100% of grapes coming from Marlborough. There will be a limit on the maximum cropping levels and all wineries must be part of a recognised sustainable viticultural programme.
On launch, 36 producers have signed up to AMW. They will pay NZ$1,000 membership and 1% of sales to support the organisation.