As Aotearoa New Zealand's Waitangi Day approaches, wine lovers around the world can celebrate the annual commemoration of the Waitangi Treaty of 1840, a momentous agreement that helped establish equality for the Māori people alongside incoming settlers.
While the day holds historical significance, it also provides an opportunity to raise a glass to New Zealand’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
What better way to honor this day than by enjoying some of the nation’s finest wines? This year’s list features both iconic favorites and emerging stars that showcase the best of what New Zealand’s diverse terroir has to offer. From the zesty Sauvignon Blanc to the creamy Chardonnay, and the earthy, silky Pinot Noir, New Zealand is making a mark on the global wine scene—and these bottles are the perfect companions for a Waitangi Day celebration.
The World's Most Wanted New Zealand Wines of 2025 by Wine-Searcher
1. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc
At the top of the list is Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, a wine that has become synonymous with New Zealand’s international success. Founded in 1985 by David Hohnen, Cloudy Bay was pivotal in putting New Zealand on the global wine map. The 2022 vintage continues the legacy, offering a vibrant mix of gooseberry, lime, and flinty notes. With a perfect balance of crisp acidity and complex depth, it’s no surprise Cloudy Bay remains a fan favorite for both new wine drinkers and collectors alike. Priced reasonably at around USD 32, it remains consistent year after year.
2. Kumeu River Maté's Vineyard Chardonnay
At number two is Kumeu River Maté’s Vineyard Chardonnay, one of New Zealand’s most revered Chardonnays. Produced in West Auckland, the Brajkovich family, originally from Croatia, has been producing exceptional wines here since 1944. The 2021 vintage has garnered praise for its delicate perfume of lemon peel, mandarin, and a subtle toasty finish. This wine is complex yet elegant, with a price tag of USD 71—higher than the previous few years, but still an excellent value for such a refined, age-worthy Chardonnay.
3. Te Mata Estate Coleraine
No list of New Zealand’s top wines would be complete without the legendary Te Mata Estate Coleraine from the Hawke’s Bay region. Coleraine is a Bordeaux-style blend, composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, offering an elegant and structured palate. The 2020 vintage received accolades from critics, including a 94-point score. With a price of USD 89, it’s an outstanding Bordeaux blend with rich dark fruit and savory notes that will continue to evolve in the cellar.
4. Ata Rangi Pinot Noir
Ata Rangi is synonymous with top-tier Pinot Noir, and the 2020 vintage doesn’t disappoint. This wine comes from the Gumboot clone—allegedly smuggled from the esteemed Romanée-Conti vineyard in Burgundy. With its rich bouquet of heady spices, dried florals, and cherry cola, Ata Rangi is a must-try for any Pinot Noir lover. Priced at USD 65, it remains a great value for a world-class New Zealand Pinot Noir.
5. Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc
Produced by Kevin Judd, a former winemaker at Cloudy Bay, Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc is one of Marlborough’s finest. The 2021 vintage is both complex and sleek, offering notes of lime, elderflower, and a touch of creamy texture. With an average price of USD 22, this wine offers incredible value for its refined structure.
6. Stonyridge Vineyard Larose
Stonyridge Vineyard Larose is a five-varietal Bordeaux blend from the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland. The wine is a powerhouse of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. With a price tag of USD 211, it’s one of the more expensive wines on this list, but its reputation as one of New Zealand’s greatest red wines is well-earned.
7. Kusuda Pinot Noir
Another Pinot Noir to make the list is Kusuda from Martinborough. This wine has garnered a dedicated following, particularly in Japan, thanks to the meticulous care taken by Hiroyuki Kusuda. The 2019 vintage was lauded for its elegance and depth, with an aggregated score of 93 points. Priced at USD 256, it’s one of New Zealand’s priciest Pinot Noirs, but its quality justifies the investment.
8. Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir
Felton Road's Bannockburn Pinot Noir is another Central Otago gem, known for its biodynamic and organic practices. The 2023 vintage has already impressed critics, earning 92 points. With aromas of fresh wildflowers, spices, and earthy complexity, it’s a Pinot Noir that reflects the unique terroir of the region. At USD 55, it’s an excellent buy for lovers of fine Pinot Noir.
9. Felton Road Block 5 Pinot Noir
Another entry from Felton Road is the Block 5 Pinot Noir, which has become a cult classic for Pinot lovers. Aged for up to 17 months in oak, this wine is rich, layered, and absolutely stunning. The 2019 vintage was particularly praised for its ethereal qualities, making it one of the most sought-after wines in the region. At USD 112, it’s a bit of an investment, but for aficionados, it’s worth every penny.
10. Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc
Rounding out the list is Cloudy Bay’s Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc, fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in oak. This wine is the ultimate expression of Sauvignon Blanc, with intense flavors and a unique complexity. At USD 60, it’s a bit of a splurge, but it remains one of Cloudy Bay’s top offerings.
As Waitangi Day approaches, celebrating New Zealand's heritage with a glass of exceptional wine is a fitting tribute to the country's rich cultural history. From the iconic, zesty Sauvignon Blancs of Marlborough to the refined, age-worthy Chardonnays of West Auckland and the complex, earthy Pinot Noirs of Central Otago and Martinborough, New Zealand wines continue to impress with their bold character and consistency.
Source: Wine-Searcher