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AKARUA | BANNOCKBURN, CENTRAL OTAGO, NEW ZEALAND

In October 2022, Edmond de Rothschild Heritage purchased 34.5 hectares of established vineyards belonging to Akarua, a historic and pioneering vineyard in Central Otago - an important and much-longed-for addition to the Edmond de Rothschild Heritage range. Hand-selected for its unique terroir and rare balanced conditions suited to producing the finest Pinot Noirs. Akarua, meaning 'two vines' in Māori, refers to the original grape varieties planted on the estate in 1996: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, which now represent over 87% and 10% of the plantings respectively. A small amount of Riesling and Pinot Gris completes the range.

WINE MAKER |  Pete Bartle

WINE MAKER | Pete Bartle

Originally from Hawke’s Bay, Pete fell in love with Central Otago over 20 years ago, captivated by its magnificent landscapes. His vinification of the region’s various terroirs forged over many years from his position at VinPro – an organisation that produces various wines from numerous estates. His reputation as one of Central Otago’s most highly reputed oenologists and winemakers is well known. In his heart lies a passion for pinot noir and chardonnay, and his aim at Akarua is to enhance the quality of the wines to their highest heights."

“At Akarua, we take an uncompromising approach to make textural wines of finesse, with poise and elegance. We take a holistic view, starting in the vineyard with care, down to the individual vine, through to our gentle winemaking. Our aim is to elevate Akarua to showcase the very best of what Central Otago wine can offer." Pete Bartle

THE VINEYARD

THE VINEYARD

The Akarua vineyard is a unique site, measuring 52 hectares, 34.5 of which planted with vines. The estate is tucked into the foothills of the mountains rising above Kawarua River and is located in Bannockburn in the Central Otago region. The vineyard occupies three west-facing terraces and enjoys intense sun all year round.

This outstanding terroir lends remarkable character to the Pinot Noir in a reflection of the spectacular mountains surrounding the estate. The second most cultivated varietal in New Zealand, Pinot Noir captures and reproduces the intensity of the Bannockburn terroir. Reputed worldwide for its Pinot Noir, Bannockburn now rivals the emblematic regions of Burgundy and Oregon.

GALLERY

VIEW ALL OUR ESTATES

VIEW ALL OUR ESTATES

Our key wineries are exclusive to Goedhuis Waddesdon and come with the guarantee of provenance, exceptional quality, and the first-class service levels we have become known for.

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