It started in the year 1959 when the grandfather of Andrew’s Donaldson
bought a house in the remote area of Lake Wanaka, Central Otago. Little
did he know that some decades later this challenging area will be one of
the most prominent places to make premium Pinot Noir wine.
It appears Andrew has been quite patient with time, the vineyard was
established in the year 2002 and after much hard work and care, they
bottled their first 2012 vintage. He did all the homework before
launching his first wine that includes consulting viticultural expert Dr
David Jordan too. Their first batch was well-received by the consumers.
Their 2012 debut vintage was expertly handled by PJ Charteris, who also
has been regarded as a New World Pinot expert. The day-to-day
operations are managed by Steve Blackmore
His Childhood
Wanaka is quite close to Andrew, as he has spent his formative years here, visiting his grandparents. He believes that he did not find Pinot but Wanaka bought him to Pinot. Talking about the location, Andrew in an interview mentioned that the landscape is quite lonely as they have no viticultural neighbours and it is challenging every day.
Coming of the Name - Akitu
The word ‘Akitu’ comes from the Maori language, one of the official language of New Zealand. It means the highest point or apex. It’s quite intriguing to know that Akitu Wines has dedicated their entire vineyard to Pinot Noir. Akitu Wines has 45,000 vines spreading over 12 hectares of Pinot Noir. Akitu A1 and A2 Pinot Noirs were rewarded with Gold Medal at the 2018 London International Wine Competition.
Central Otago - A Place of Difference
A very well known region known for producing spectacular and premium quality wines is located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is also the coldest and driest part of New Zealand. Although, Pinot Noir is the dominant grape in this region but other grapes are also grown in the region - Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. The soil in the area is made up of greywacke and mica schist. You will find loam and clay soils here which are high in mineral content conducive for viticulture. The area has its own motto “ A World of Difference”
They don't have a cellar door but many tourists do visit them. You can experience a picturesque view of the mountains. There are very few places in the world that will leave you in awe and give an everlasting experience. Central Otago is one such place that will reveal its differences in unexpected and subtle ways.
His Childhood
Wanaka is quite close to Andrew, as he has spent his formative years here, visiting his grandparents. He believes that he did not find Pinot but Wanaka bought him to Pinot. Talking about the location, Andrew in an interview mentioned that the landscape is quite lonely as they have no viticultural neighbours and it is challenging every day.
Coming of the Name - Akitu
The word ‘Akitu’ comes from the Maori language, one of the official language of New Zealand. It means the highest point or apex. It’s quite intriguing to know that Akitu Wines has dedicated their entire vineyard to Pinot Noir. Akitu Wines has 45,000 vines spreading over 12 hectares of Pinot Noir. Akitu A1 and A2 Pinot Noirs were rewarded with Gold Medal at the 2018 London International Wine Competition.
Central Otago - A Place of Difference
A very well known region known for producing spectacular and premium quality wines is located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is also the coldest and driest part of New Zealand. Although, Pinot Noir is the dominant grape in this region but other grapes are also grown in the region - Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. The soil in the area is made up of greywacke and mica schist. You will find loam and clay soils here which are high in mineral content conducive for viticulture. The area has its own motto “ A World of Difference”
They don't have a cellar door but many tourists do visit them. You can experience a picturesque view of the mountains. There are very few places in the world that will leave you in awe and give an everlasting experience. Central Otago is one such place that will reveal its differences in unexpected and subtle ways.
Also You Like - Where To Buy Grapes For Wine Making in Australia
Comments
Post a Comment