As the Marlborough Flyer approaches Blenheim, you will see plenty of vineyards. This is the fertile heart of the Wairau River Valley and the center of the Marlborough Wine Region. David Herd from Scotland was the first to plant grapes here in 1873. The industry did not begin to blossom for one hundred years. Now there are over 150 Marlborough Region wineries. These vineyards produce more than 75% of New Zealand’s wines. The famous varietal is Sauvignon blanc. Chardonnay and pinot noir are also very popular.
