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Varieties.
"It’s hard to say ‘Central Otago’ without adding ‘Pinot’".
Besides Pinot Noir, many other cool-climate loving varieties are grown in Central Otago. Pinot Gris, the eponymous (and genetic) cousin of Pinot Noir is our most popular white variety. Riesling is another variety that excels in this environment and is considered by many viticulturalists and winemakers to enjoy Central Otago even more than Pinot Noir. Chardonnay has enjoyed growing popularity and the crisp and fruit-forward style from Central Otago is an especially tempting summer tipple. Small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc, Gruner Veltliner, Merlot, Gewürztraminer, Gamay and Syrah are also produced in the region and are often exulted for their complexity and balance.
Pinot Noir
Central Otago’s flagship variety whose reputation increases as the region and its vines mature. Fragrant, lush fruit underpinned by taut structure, silky texture and true intensity.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris is a natural cousin to Pinot Noir and similarly grows exceptionally well in Central Otago, creating scope for a range of styles from austerely dry to decadently sweet but always with sparkling fruit and precise structure.
Saint Laurent, Gwertztraminer, Gruner Veltliner and small blocks of Gamay, Merlot, and Chenin Blanc can also be found in Central Otago. Emerging wine styles including Blanc de Noir, fortified wines, orange and natural wines are also popular.
Emerging Whites & Reds
Citrus and mineral characters, tightly structured, fine-bodied and sophisticated; can be reserved when young but unfold with great complexity and elegance.
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Fresh tropical fruit and floral aromas with a clean citrus finish typify a classic Central Otago Sauvignon Blanc. The perfect accompaniment to seafood and sunshine. Grown in the mountains but at home by the sea.
Riesling
The unsung hero of Central Otago, Riesling is crisp, mineral and refreshing with perfumed white flowers and luscious sweet fruit aromas. Made in a range of styles from dry to dessert, if you haven’t tried Riesling in a while, these are the ones to refresh your palate.
Other Varieties & Styles.
Rosé made from premium quality Pinot Noir is possibly the best wine for a sunny day that you’ll ever come across. Lifted sweet fruits, cherry and strawberry with layers of beach parties and BBQs. These wines are hugely popular and typically sell-out before summer is done.
Rosé
Produced in the traditional method Central Otago Pinot Noir and Chardonnay based Sparkling Wines are refined and alluring, reflecting fresh apple and firm stone fruit, supported by subtle yeast autolysis and a finely integrated acidity.