In May 2008 my girlfriend and I stumbled across the greatest show on earth. Ehhh, no, it wasn’t a live Bruce Springsteen concert or a European night at Anfield. It was a country. A country which we fell head-over-heels in love with for its stunning landscape, accessible wildlife, friendly people and of course, world beating wine.

Our stop in Marlborough brought us to Watson’s Way Backpackers, were we got the warmest welcome from hosts Pat and Paul who sent us on two bicycles around some of the most beautiful wine country in the world.

Among our stops were Alan Scotts, Cloudy Bay, Jane Hunters, Nautilus and Seresin Estate – and as you would expect we were gobsmacked by the quality of the Sauvignon Blanc. Cats pee on a gooseberry bush and all that. But it wasn’t just the savvys that raised eye-brows. You could literally taste the vineyard in those mesmerising Pinot Noirs and heart-stopping Rieslings.

Our last stop was Forrest Estate, where we knew it was time to go home when Bronagh (pictured) walked head first into a very heavy wooden door on her way to the toilet. Perhaps a few too many, with the bike ride home being even more painful.

One of my favourite NZ Sauvignon Blanc’s is The Ned. Clear, pale lemon, big tears with piercing aromas of nettles and gooseberry. Very approachable with a hint of spice on the long finish.

Emphatically New Zealand.