The first vines were planted at Akarua in 1996 (it’s now the biggest family-owned winery in the region of Bannockburn in Central Otago) and since the first wines were made in 1999 the winery has won numerous awards. Make sure you seek them out if you’re in New Zealand.
What style do you think characterises the pinot of your region?
Intense flavours, purity and fresh acidity make the wines lively and honest, yet with a soft approachability and silky texture.
Tell us three things we need to know about your region?
We consider Otago one of, if not the best and most unique region in New Zealand (although we may be biased). The ability to ski, surf, bike, hike and enjoy the endless adventures the mountains hold coupled with excellent growing conditions for pinot noir is what keeps us wanting more! Central Otago residents seem to have a unique, deep connection with the land and we think this is reflected through the passion and care that goes into producing such incredible, award winning wines across the region. If that’s not enough of a reason to visit, the views will win you over!
What’s the one thing we simply must do in your region?
A tour of Central Otago wineries is always a great way to start your visit – unrivalled scenery matched with excellent wines! Aside from wine, we recommend getting out into those mountains we so fondly talk about, we are lucky enough to have countless trails and some renowned ski resorts, perfect to experience the beauty of our landscape. Queenstown has become a tourist mecca over the last five years and features some world class restaurants and bars. You really are spoilt for choice.
If not you, who else should people try?
Everyone! (Okay, within reason…there’s a lot of us here). But keep an open mind, try someone new and hear their story.
What song should we listen to when driving to the winery?
What song should we listen to when driving away and onto the next one?
The one song that makes you dance when the beat drops…
