What makes Central Otago wines so unique?

Distinctive landscapes make distinctive wines.

​The semi-arid climate of Central Otago creates a combination of conditions ideal for Pinot Noir grapes. Long, cool, dry autumns, a large variation between maximum and minimum temperatures and soil conditions combine to develop a deep complexity to the wine.

​Central Otago experiences the coldest, the driest and the hottest temperatures in the country. Far from being too tough for growing grapes, it is just about perfect and creates the unique terroir of Central Otago.

​Central Otago is the southern-most grape-growing region in the world. Pinot Noir accounts for around 85% of plantings, with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer making up the majority of the rest. You will also find sparkling wine made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Central Otago is a remarkable wine region in New Zealand, known for its diverse subregions, each contributing unique characteristics to the wines. Here's an overview of the subregions:

1. Gibbston: Often referred to as the "Valley of the Vines," Gibbston is one of the coolest subregions in Central Otago. It is renowned for its crisp, vibrant Pinot Noir with bright acidity and flavours of red fruits. The cooler climate here is ideal for producing elegant and nuanced wines. Gibbston is also known for its scenic beauty, with vineyards nestled among rugged landscapes and the picturesque Gibbston River.

2. Bannockburn: Bannockburn is celebrated for its rich, complex Pinot Noir, thanks to its warm and dry climate. The subregion’s schist soils contribute to the depth and structure of the wines. Bannockburn also produces excellent white wines, particularly Riesling, which often exhibits intense fruit flavours and minerality.

3. Pisa: Pisa is located north of Bannockburn and is known for its dry, sunny climate, which helps in ripening grapes thoroughly. The subregion produces powerful and robust Pinot Noir with deep colour and rich flavours. Pisa's vineyards benefit from the well-drained soils and the relatively warmer temperatures compared to other subregions.

4. Bendigo: Bendigo is one of the warmest and driest areas in Central Otago, resulting in bold and intense Pinot Noir. The subregion’s wines often have a full-bodied character with ripe fruit flavours and strong tannins. Bendigo’s unique terroir, with its deep alluvial soils, contributes to the distinctive qualities of its wines.

5. Alexandra: Situated in the southern part of Central Otago, Alexandra is known for its extreme temperature variations between day and night. This climate contributes to the production of Pinot Noir with excellent balance, bright acidity, and vibrant fruit flavours. The subregion also produces high-quality white wines and is noted for its crisp and aromatic Riesling.

6. Wanaka: Wanaka is known for its stunning landscapes and cooler climate, which is ideal for producing aromatic and finely structured wines. Pinot Noir from Wanaka often shows bright red fruit flavours and balanced acidity. The subregion's diverse terroir, including different soil types and elevations, adds complexity to its wines.

7. Waitaki: Although slightly on the fringe of Central Otago, Waitaki is known for its cooler climate and diverse soil types, which contribute to its unique wine profile. The subregion is gaining recognition for its high-quality Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. Waitaki's wines are often characterized by their elegance, freshness, and distinctive mineral qualities.

Each of these subregions adds its own distinctive touch to Central Otago's wine offerings, making the region a fascinating place for wine enthusiasts to explore.

For most of our tours, we focus on visiting the exceptional cellar doors located around Queenstown, Arrowtown, Lake Hayes, and the Gibbston subregion. These areas are renowned for their stunning landscapes and remarkable wines, offering a delightful experience for any wine lover.

In the following pages, we will provide more detailed insights into the wineries and cellar doors in these specific locations.

If you’re interested in exploring other subregions within Central Otago, we invite you to contact us and inquire about our Bespoke Private Tours. These customised tours allow you to discover the full diversity of Central Otago's wine regions according to your preferences.