Central Otago Pinot Noir

Central Otago is New Zealand's most acclaimed Pinot Noir region, its high altitude and continental climate producing wines with more concentration and structure than almost anywhere else in the country. Steep, sunny sites around Bannockburn, Bendigo, and Gibbston each bring slightly different character, though the region as a whole leans toward power and depth rather than delicacy. If you're comparing regions, Martinborough Pinot Noir takes a cooler, more restrained approach further north, while New Zealand Pinot Noir covers the full domestic range. Pinot Noir opens things up internationally, including Burgundy's benchmark examples. For the wider regional picture, Central Otago Wine is worth a look, since the region also produces excellent Pinot Gris and Riesling.