Dramatic vineyards in this dramatic region
Based around Queenstown in the deep south of New Zealand’s South island, the Central Otago is a relative new comer in the wine world with wine only being made commercially here since 1987. What started out as a tiny band of pioneers focusing on Pinot Noir, has now developed into a rapidly expanding 80+ wineries producing varieties including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer, although Pinot Noir is by far the King here with about 80% of plantings.
The continental climate and large dinural temperature fluctuations (difference between day and night time temperatures) make it an ideal place for growing quality Pinot Noir which produces wines full of colour, quite full bodied and flavours reminiscent of forest fruits and chocolate with brilliant acidity and good ageing potential. The soil structure here varies dramatically from sandy loam, to stony schist on top, but underneath there is an often common theme of free draining gravel, which is ideal for stressing vines and producing top notch juice.
Otago vineyards in winter. Cold.
With such an emphasis on Pinot Noir it is not surprising great sparkling wines are also produced. A few years back when i was lucky enough to vist the region, i paid a visit to the Quartz Reef winery where they produced tiny quantites of NV and vintage wines made by the tradtional method. These were every bit as good if not better than many Champagnes but unfortunately its all gobbled up in the home market, and never see’s these shores.
However many great wines do make these shores, including the wines listed below:
From this stunning region we currently stock 3 wines
Wild Rock Cupids Arrow Central Otago Pinot Noir 2007
“Medium blackish-red in colour. The vibrant aromas are of red berries, cranberry and floral notes with a background of savoury dried herbs and wild thyme. The palate is complex and elegant with raspberry, boysenberry and cherry fruit characters with a rich savoury undertone. Fine sandy tannins and supporting acidity draw the wine into a long, bright finish.
Wild Rock Cupids Arrow Pinot Noir 2007
£13.99 per bottle (£150 per case)
Wild Earth Riesling 2007. 2008 Coming Soon
Wild Earth Pinot Noir 2008
£19.99 per bottle (£220 per case)
Other well know producers from the region include Felton Road, Mt Difficulty, Mount Edward, Misha’s Vineyard, Chard Fram, Peregrine Estate, Quartz Reef etc. if you want to experience the wines from Central Otago, i’m sure you will not be disappointed.
