Méthode Marlborough: Elevating New Zealand’s Sparkling Wine Experience

As the sparkling wine market continues to evolve, Méthode Marlborough remains committed to showcasing the finest sparkling wines New Zealand has to offer. In a landscape filled with varying styles—carbonation,pét-nat, charmat, and Méthode Traditionnelle—consumers often struggle to distinguish between these options. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to educate the public on the meticulous craftsmanship behind Méthode Marlborough wines and their place at the premium end of the spectrum.

Unlike other sparkling methods, Méthode Traditionnelle is a testament to time, patience, and tradition. All Méthode Marlborough wines undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle, followed by a minimum of 18 months of ageing on lees, along with the intricate riddling and disgorging process. This careful, time-intensive method creates fine bubbles and layers of complex, nuanced flavours, elevating these wines to a level of luxury that cannot be rushed.

“Méthode Marlborough Sparkling Wine is the result of passion, patience, and dedication to our craft,” says Ed Macdonald, General Manager of Hunter's Wines. “If it were just about commercialisation, we wouldn’t wait over 18 months for fermentation. That commitment to time and care is what sets us apart, ensuring a sparkling wine that stands out for its superior quality, depth, and character— something that simply can’t be rushed.”

Andrea Craig, Marketing Manager at Whitehaven Wine Company, adds, “The time invested in MéthodeMarlborough wines is what gives them their elegance and complexity. It’s not just about making sparkling wine— it’s about creating an experience that reflects the dedication behind every bottle.”

As the sparkling wine market grows in sophistication, there is a growing demand for clearer categorisation in both restaurants and retail. Méthode Marlborough advocates for a distinct Méthode section on wine lists, giving consumers the opportunity to fully appreciate the unique quality and complexity of these locally crafted sparkling wines. Similarly, off-premise retailers should create dedicated sections for Méthode wines, reinforcing the premium positioning they deserve.

“Méthode Traditionnelle should not be hidden among other sparkling wines," says Melinda Skinner, Chair of Méthode Marlborough."It deserves its own space—both in terms of recognition and placement. We’re seeing increasing demand for this, and it’s time wine lists and stores reflect that.”

Méthode Marlborough is proud to celebrate the diversity and quality of New Zealand's sparkling wines. All grapes used in production are sourced 100% from Marlborough, ensuring exceptional quality and provenance. Supporting Méthode Marlborough means supporting local growers and winemakers who arecommitted to sustainability, and crafting wines that are on par with the world’s finest.

This month, MelindaSkinner of Esses Estate will step down as Chair of Méthode Marlborough after two passionate years dedicated to the role. Melinda’s love for sparkling wine drove her and her husband, Aaron Skinner (Co-Owner and Viticultural Manager) to search the world, eventually finding a special little plot of vines in the magnificent foothills of Kaikōura. Their vineyard, Esses Estate, is the only vineyard near Kaikōura township and specialises solely in Méthode Traditionnelle. Located in the southernmost part of Marlborough, Esses Estate reflects Melinda and Aaron's vision of producing exceptional sparkling wines that capture the essence of this unique terroir.

Melinda and Esses Estate will continue to be part of Méthode Marlborough, contributing to the group’s collective efforts in raising the profile of traditional method wines in New Zealand. The Méthode Marlborough committee expresses their immense gratitude to Melinda for her tireless dedication and hard work in promoting the heritage and quality of Marlborough's traditional method wines. The organisation remains committed to building and elevating the global reputation of New Zealand’s sparkling wines. A newly elected Chair will soon be announced, ensuring continued strong leadership for the future of Méthode Marlborough.