The Hawke’s Bay wine region in New Zealand has been crowned the newest Great Wine Capital of the world.

Established in Bordeaux in 1999, Great Wine Capitals is a global network of the world’s 12 greatest wine regions.

The network aims to sustain the health and prosperity of wine-related industries and support the communities and tourism in these capitals.

Hawke’s Bay Tourism CEO, Hamish Saxton, said being named a Great Wine Capital of the world is “a remarkable milestone for the region”.

“This new achievement gives Hawke’s Bay a unique positioning in New Zealand and the world. It is a true legacy for the region and will continue to deliver benefits to industry, education, business and tourism for the years to come.”

Charlotte Read, GM of marketing at New Zealand Winegrowers, said to join prestigious wine regions such as Adelaide, Napa Valley and Bordeaux is a “proud moment” for Hawke’s Bay.

“This achievement is not only a recognition of Hawke’s Bay’s successes, but a catalyst for further growth in wine tourism, putting Hawke’s Bay, and New Zealand, firmly on the world stage as a must-visit destination for wine lovers.”

The recommendation was led by Hawke’s Bay Tourism, on behalf of a working group that also included Hawke’s Bay Wine Growers, Napier City Council, Hawke’s Bay Airport, Hastings District Council, and EIT/Te Pūkenga, supported by New Zealand Winegrowers.