Central Otago is not only New Zealand's
highest wine region it is also the one that enjoys a true continental
climate. The extreme difference between day/night and seasonal temperatures,
hot, long summer days and dry auturns provide excellent growing conditions
for varieties like Pinot Noir and Riesling. Another aspect that distinguishes
it from other regions is the soil structures which are very different,
with heavy deposits of mica and schist over silt loams.
There are four sub-regions in Central Otago (Gibbston
Valley, Cromwell/Bannockburn,Wanaka,
and Alexandra), and while they share similar conditions
they are quite distinct. Each vineyard site offers
different viticultural challenges and benefits
to the winemaker. One common factor is that the
sub wine regions are perhaps the most beautiful
and awe-inspiring locations in the world.
Production area 2004: 844 hectares (includes
Northland)
Principal Varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot
Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc
Wineries
Rockburn - Central Otago Winery - Taking its name from the rugged rock-strewn, burn-scarred landscape of Central Otago, Rockburn produces premium wines of intense varietal characteristics. Nestled on the 45th parallel, we share a climate that is similar to Burgundy, the great Pinot Noir producing region of the world. Grapes are hand-picked from our Parkburn and Gibbston Back Road Vineyards, each site contributing fruit characteristics that reflect their unique terroir. Our wines are then carefully crafted to fully express the complex subtleties available only in New Zealand's one true continental climate.
Akarua Winery Bannockburn Central Otago - Akarua Winery has rapidly developed a world-wide reputation for producing quality wines. Akarua was established in 1996, with first vintage three years later. Our philosophy is to reflect the special and unique characters of the Bannockburn sub-region's terroir, and capture the qualities of each vintage so that they are truly reflected in each bottle that you taste.
Wine Tours Otago - Wine Tours Otago's mission is to make Central Otago wineries accessible to Otago residents and visitors looking for a day tour with a difference,enabling them to soak up the scenery,wine and food of this fantastic region.
Appellation Central - Small group wine tours depart daily from Queenstown. Enjoy the specatular scenery, a gourmet lunch and tasting premium quality cool climate wines.
Boardwalk Seafood Restaurant - Situated on the shores of Queenstown Bay, with outstanding views of the bay and the Remarkables mountain range, the outlook is truly breathtaking. The Boardwalk Seafood Restaurant is dedicated to providing the freshest seafood and agricultural produce, carefully cooked by our outstanding kitchen brigade.
One @ 25 Belfast - Luxury Queenstown Holiday Home - An outstanding architecturally designed luxury holiday apartment, One @ 25 Belfast located just minutes from the vibrant centre of Queenstown, in the exclusive suburb of Queenstown Hill. Enjoying magnificent uninterrupted lake and mountain views, the apartment is a luxurious home away from home in the jewel of the South Island. One @ 25 Belfast enjoys two double bedrooms each with a stylish ensuite, spacious living and dining area, secure off street parking and a private balcony from which to enjoy the fabulous views. 24/7 concierge services are also available to in-house guests as required.
Commonage Villas - Queenstown - Commonage Villas is an unbeatable base to explore the cosmopolitan resort town of Queenstown. Completed in mid-2007, these wonderfully luxurious and spacious homes are nestled in a premium location on Queenstown Hill. The range of exclusive villas has sweeping panoramas, lake views and mountain vistas. Balconies, terraces and huge windows make the very most of the inspiring surroundings and stunning décor exudes comfort and style.
