Subregions

From Alexandra to Wanaka

Shaped by a network of valleys and bounded by the Southern Alps, Central Otago unfolds as a series of subregions set within a rugged mountain landscape. Together, they form a broad triangle east of Queenstown, stretching roughly 85 km from north to south and 60 km from east to west.

Though only kilometres apart, each subregion occupies a unique niche of climate, aspect, and altitude, producing wines that reflect the character of their place. From sunlit terraces to sheltered river valleys, the terrain shapes each site in a way that is intrinsic to its identity.

Despite the scale of the landscape, vineyard plantings cover just over 2,000 hectares.

Alexandra

At the southern tip of the region, the towns of Alexandra and Clyde lie in broad river basins and along the terraces of the Clutha and Manuherikia Rivers. Known as the region’s earliest planted area, viticulture here dates back to 1864, and the landscape endures some of the hottest summers and coldest winters.