Central Otago has the distinction of growing the most southerly grapes in the world. Some of its vineyards are located south of the 45th parallel but most lie within the northern hemisphere equivalent of Burgundy. It also boasts of being the highest altitude wine region of New Zealand.
The region's wineries are scattered around the areas of Gibbston, Wanaka, Bannockburn, the Cromwell Basin, Bendigo and the Alexandra Basin.
One of the most distinct features of the Central Otago wine region is its continental climate with extreme variations in the daily and seasonal temperatures. This poses a risk of frost throughout the year, a reason why most of the vineyards lie on hill slopes. This also ensures better exposure to the sun. These climatic features along with the schist and mica based soils are the reflected in the styles of wines produced in the region.
Pinot Noir is by far the most successful grape variety which has brought worldwide recognition to the region. These wines are often described as voluptuous and extremely fruit forward. Other notable wines are based on Chardonnay and Riesling. Overall, the wines are characterized by their purity and expression of fruit.
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