Nelson is an area of polyculture, with viticulture mixed with other agricultural and horticultural activities. It is New Zealand's eighth-largest region. Chardonnay is the most widely planted, followed by Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Top producers make excellent examples, the equal of New Zealand's best.

Nelson is situated in a rain-shadow, the influence of which combines with the tempering effect of the nearby ocean to create excellent conditions for vine-culture. Soil types are alluvial loam and clay loam over hard clay subsoil. Top producers: Neudorf, Seifried, Greenhough.