'Past, Present and Beyond... the Tale of New Zealand Chardonnay and Sparkling' runs from February 4-5, and follows Marlborough’s inaugural International Sauvignon Blanc Celebration (February 1-3).

NZWG says the event will showcase the developments that New Zealand is seeing from these wines.

A group of 80 guests will have the opportunity to explore the quality, diversity and future developments of New Zealand Sparkling and Chardonnay wines across a full day of comprehensive tastings.

Masters of Wine Jane Skilton MW and Michael Brajkovich MW (Kumeu River Wines) will lead panels of industry experts, presenting and discussing the attributes of New Zealand Sparkling and Chardonnay, taking guests through the regional and winemaking styles.

NZWG’s marketing director Chris Yorke said: “In New Zealand we produce world-class Chardonnay and Sparkling wines.”

“Our Chardonnay strongly reflects New Zealand’s unique terroir and the huge diversity within its regions, while our Sparkling has gained worldwide acclaim for its complexity and elegance.

“Gisborne is the perfect venue for the symposium with its great reputation for kiwi hospitality, rich culture, and of course, its world class Chardonnay.”