Central Otago is New Zealand’s fastest growing wine region and also it’s most scenic. Take the time to explore these incredible vineyards set in small microclimates in a landscape dominated by high snowcapped mountains, and tussock clad slopes.

Climate and Soil

Central Otago is New Zealand’s highest and the world’s most southerly wine growing region. The vineyards lie in the valleys surrounded by high mountains, many of which are snowcapped all year round. The summers here are hot and dry; and the winters crisp and snowy. With the benefit of low rainfall and high sunshine hours outweighing the risk of frosts, this is the perfect region for the creation of high quality Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling.

Soil structures are very different to those of New Zealand's other regions with heavy mineral deposits of mica and schists in silt loams with excellent drainage.

The relatively low annual rainfall reduces the need for spraying as there is a low incidence of fungal disease.

At a latitude of 45º south this regions experiences many climatic similarities to other great wine regions such as the Willamette Valley in Oregon, Burgundy, and Alsace.

The Wines

With an international reputation for the best Pinot Noir in the world, most of the grapes grown in Central Otago are Pinot Noir. The next most dominant grape varieties are Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Riesling. Sauvignon Blanc and Gewruztraminer are grown to a lesser extent.

Hot, dry summer days and cool night time temperatures lead to slow ripening giving the wines an intense, pure flavour.

History

Central Otago’s first wines were produced in the 19th century when the region was a growing gold mining area. Jean Desire Feraud, the first Mayor of Clyde, won awards for his wines in Australia in the 1880s and any vines were planted by the miners. During the late 1800s the region acknowledged as having suitable wine growing potential, however, the early wine industry did not survive.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s there was a revival with the planting of the Rippon Vineyard in Wanaka, Gibbston Valley Wines in Queenstown and Black Ridge in Alexandra.

Today Gibbston Valley is New Zealand's most visited winery with 80,000 visitors each year.

Central Otago Wine & Food Festival

This annual event is set in the beautiful Queenstown Gardens and held in late January. Wine flows freely, local chefs match food to the wine from local wineries, and jazz is played while you take in the spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu. Contact one of the local wineries for tickets and more information.