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What type of wine is Hawkes Bay predominantly known for?

  1. Pinot Noir

  2. Chardonnay

  3. Malbec

  4. Cabernet Sauvignon

The correct answer is: Cabernet Sauvignon

Hawkes Bay is predominantly known for Cabernet Sauvignon due to its climate and terroir, which are particularly well-suited for growing this grape variety. The region experiences warm, sunny days and cool nights, which help to produce grapes that are rich in flavor and color. The resulting Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Hawkes Bay are often celebrated for their full body, depth, and complexity. While Hawkes Bay also produces other varietals like Chardonnay and Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon stands out as the flagship red wine of the region, frequently demonstrating the characteristics expected of high-quality wines, including ripe fruit flavors, balance, and aging potential. This strong reputation for Cabernet Sauvignon has established Hawkes Bay as a key player in the New Zealand wine scene. The prominence of this varietal in the region is highlighted through various wine competitions and the consistent recognition of its quality.