LOCATION
At 45% south Central Otago is the world’s southernmost winemaking region. It is mountainous, rising to over 2000m with the vines planted amongst spectacular alpine scenery. The vineyards are also the highest in New Zealand, located between 200 and 400 metres above see level.
Although small, Central Otago is a rapidly developing wine growing region, with an international reputation for the best Pinot Noir in the world. More than 70% of grapes grown in Central Otago are Pinot Noir, with Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling and to a lesser extent Sauvignon Blanc and Gewruztraminer also performing well on suitable sites. Production of sparkling wine, traditionally made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, has been small but the high quality achieved has seen the wines well received.
“This is God’s Country when it comes to Pinot Noir.” (James Halliday in Panorama 2000)
"Many believe this is where the Pinot grail is to be found" (Jancis Robinson - Wine Atlas of the World)
Central Otago is really a series of sub regions: each a pocket of possibility in a rugged mountain landscape. Many are quite different and the wines they produce already have distinctive characteristics.
Each of the subregions can be further broken down by location into smaller areas or sub-regions... more info
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