Hawke's Bay has been named one of the top wine regions in the world, adding its name to the prestigious list of Great Wine Capitals.
Coming in at 12th place, the region has been praised for its wine-growing industry, history, tourism, educational opportunities, business, travel, and what the city and surrounding region can offer.
The ranking has placed Hawkes' Bay alongside other major wine-growing regions worldwide, such as Bordeaux in France, Napa Valley in the United States, Bilbao in Spain, and Adelaide in Australia. Hawke's Bay CEO Hamish Saxton said that this recognition's significance is a remarkable milestone for the region to be named a Great Wine Capital of the world.
“Hawke’s Bay’s inclusion as one of just 12 Great Wine Capitals of the world is of regional and national significance. It is recognition that Hawke’s Bay wines are among the world’s best and that our nation’s wine-growing industry, while still young, offers quality to rival the world’s oldest,” said Saxton.
“We have long known that Hawke’s Bay, as New Zealand’s Food and Wine Country, stood out for its winemaking. This new achievement uniquely positions Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand and the world. The climate, unique soils and the innovation of so many talented individuals have come together to deliver an accolade the region deserves. It is a true legacy for the region and will continue to deliver benefits to industry, education, business and tourism in the future.”
Becoming a Great Wine Capital will also boost the area's tourism, which is desperately needed for post-cyclone recovery. The Hawke's Bay wine industry generates around $300 million each year, which contributes $156 million to GDP.
Tourism New Zealand chief executive Rene de Monchy said that being named as being a Great Wine Capital of the world is fantastic.
“Travelers are looking for world-class offerings, and this global accolade provides that assurance and puts Hawke’s Bay alongside the world’s best wine experiences.”
Hawke's Bay produces some of the country's best-growing soils and climates, allowing the region to produce high-quality wines. Wine is very much part of local culture as well.
