Graham Norton gets hands-on for vintage

Marlborough hosted to one of its Sauvignon Blanc’s biggest advocates, as Graham Norton experienced the region’s harvest season and hospitality Thursday.

While on his An Evening with Graham Norton tour of the country, Graham took his passion for sav a step further this harvest season and joined Invivo Wines’ cofounders Tim Lightbourne and Rob Cameron in Marlborough on to experience the winemaking process firsthand.

Graham rolled up his sleeves in the Awatere Valley, getting hands-on with grape picking, tasting juice samples, and assessing fruit quality for the twelfth vintage of his GN Sauvignon Blanc.

“I don’t just put my name to the wines - I’m involved in the process, which makes being here in this stunning region for harvest all the more special,” says Graham Norton.

“New Zealand produces some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc, in my opinion - it’s incredible to think that what began as a small, limited-edition run of GN New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc has grown into a global brand, and here we are harvesting grapes in Marlborough for our twelfth vintage”.

The long-standing partnership between Graham and Invivo began in 2014 with a Sauvignon Blanc and has since evolved into an internationally acclaimed wine and spirits portfolio.

“Graham has always been hands-on - he personally tastes, blends, and signs off on every vintage with us to ensure his favourite wine is made to his exact taste preferences,” says Invivo Cofounder and Winemaker Rob Cameron.

“To welcome him to our vineyard and experience the magic of Marlborough firsthand was a real highlight for all of us.”

The visit culminated in a winemaker’s lunch at Rapaura's Harvest Restaurant where Graham, Tim, and Rob were hosted by the Mayor of Marlborough Nadine Taylor and local growers

Graham experienced the Marlborough region’s wine and food produce with a menu featuring Mills Bay Mussels, New Zealand King Salmon, Pinoli Pine Nuts and local Cranky Goat Cheese.

Mayor Nadine Taylor presented Graham with the first-of-its-kind 'Grape Ambassador' Award, recognizing his long-term advocacy for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and the brand’s global success.

“It was my great pleasure to host Graham in Marlborough and award him the title of Official Marlborough Grape Ambassador”, said Mayor Nadine Taylor.

"In fact, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is a lot like Graham himself – vibrant and refreshing with razor-sharp acidity”.

“Graham is not only a legend and high-profile broadcaster and writer - he is also the world’s greatest advocate for Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc”.