Global Toasts and Events Highlight NZ Wines
In May, wine lovers worldwide are encouraged by New Zealand Winegrowers to ‘Pour Yourself a Glass of New Zealand’, celebrating the nation’s remarkable white wines. This event aligns with International Sauvignon Blanc Day on 1st May, International Pinot Gris Day on 17th May, and International Chardonnay Day on 21st May.
New Zealand’s wine exports hit an impressive $2.1 billion for the year ending in June 2025. White wine makes up about 95% of these exports. Sauvignon Blanc is the most exported variety, while Pinot Gris and Chardonnay are gaining international recognition.
Charlotte Read, the General Manager Brand at New Zealand Winegrowers, remarked, “New Zealand has built a global reputation for producing refreshing, expressive, high-quality white wines. From Sauvignon Blanc to Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, these wines reflect both the diversity of our regions and a modern approach to winemaking.”
The Great White Wine Toast
The campaign encourages participants to join ‘The Great White Wine Toast’ by raising a glass of New Zealand white wine and sharing the moment online. This initiative also seeks to highlight the lack of an official white wine emoji, sparking a global conversation about white wine.
Australia plays a significant role in New Zealand’s wine market. One out of every two dollars spent on Sauvignon Blanc and one out of every three dollars spent on white wine in Australia are attributed to New Zealand’s exports. This campaign aims to increase awareness leading up to Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand 2027, an event that will draw global media, trade, and influencers.
Wine enthusiasts are invited to engage with the campaign on social media platforms using hashtags like #pouryourselfaglassofNZ and #greatwhitewinetoast. For more information, the New Zealand Winegrowers‘ official website provides further details.
New Zealand exports its wine to over 100 countries, making it the country’s seventh-largest export good. This global reach is a testament to the rising popularity and quality of New Zealand’s white wine varieties.
The month-long campaign not only shines a spotlight on New Zealand’s signature white wine styles but also encourages the discovery of premium wines across various regions and varieties. The initiative aims to showcase the expanding range of styles being produced, from fresh and aromatic to more textured and complex expressions.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 12:26 pm
