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.
Appellation Central - Small group wine tours depart daily from Queenstown. Enjoy the specatular scenery, a gourmet lunch and tasting premium quality cool climate wines.
Queenstown Wine Trail - Central Otago New Zealand - Make wine personal and join us on a tour around the Central Otago wine region. Our experienced, friendly team and our close relationship with the wineries mean we guarantee to give all our guests a fun, informative, and above all, a personalised tour. You will meet members of each vineyard team for a close up perspective of the local wine. We choose the best vineyard combinations to provide a relaxed experience. Private tours available on request.
Roaring Megs Restaurant - Established in 1981, Roaring Megs has gained a fine international and local reputation. Over the years we have received many accolades. We believe that consistency in food quality, presentation and service is essential for the satisfaction of our customers and the success of our restaurant. Our menu has distinct European/Pacific Rim influences. Roaring Megs' friendly, relaxed atmosphere and Victorian decor is the perfect setting for a romantic, candlelit dinner or a large group get together.
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.
Oaks Shores (Queenstown) - Located on magnificent Lake Wakatipu, Oaks Shores is a luxuriously appointed apartment style hotel only a short distance from world-class ski fields, golf courses, vineyards, various adventure activities and Queenstown’s own shopping and restaurant precinct. Each spacious apartment is beautifully furnished and features balconies with breathtaking views over the lake and mountain ranges. Accommodation includes one, two, three and four bedroom apartments, hotel rooms and 3 & 4 bedroom Penthouses, all with under floor heating, and superb kitchens and bathrooms.
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.
