The wine region of Central Otago is a land of Pinot Noir and mountains. The dry and sunny climate, with cool nights, was found to be perfect for the growing of dark and aromatic grapes. Pinot Noir plantings have long comprised three-quarters of the wine production in this famed area.
The vineyards of New Zealand date back more than 200 years, when settlers from Europe arrived in droves. With the advent of climate change, the southern region is getting much warmer, which means the cool nights that ensured Pinot’s elegant flavour are in question. South Island vineyards are now having unexpected success with plantings of Chardonnay.
“Pinot noir is the ultimate wine to have at the table. It’s a white wine masquerading as red, while chardonnay is a red masquerading as a white.” ~ Kevin Zraly
