Akitu 'A1' Pinot Noir 2020 (100ml)

Akitu is a tiny, Pinot-focused estate tucked into the southern end of Central Otago’s Wanaka sub-region. Owned by Andrew Donaldson, the vineyard sits at high altitude, giving low yields, long ripening and beautifully fine tannins.

Winemaker PJ Charteris guides the fruit with a light touch, favouring precision and gentle extraction to let the site’s natural brightness shine. Akitu works almost exclusively with Pinot Noir, exploring different clones and parcels to show how nuanced this cool, remote corner of Otago can be.

The wines feel pure, supple and expressive, with a real sense of place.

New Zealand’s wine history is young, beginning with nineteenth century missionaries and modest early plantings. A turning point came in the 1970s with modern Sauvignon Blanc and cool climate viticulture. Rapid growth followed, and the country now stands as a leader in fresh, focused, regionally expressive wines.

New Zealand has built a global reputation on purity, bright fruit and a strong connection to place. Its wine regions stretch from subtropical Northland to the cool reaches of Central Otago, with a focus on expressing climate and landscape. The appellation framework is relatively relaxed, allowing producers to focus on style and sustainability. Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough remains the country’s calling card, while Pinot Noir thrives in Martinborough and Central Otago.

You will also find excellent Chardonnay, Riesling and Syrah across both islands. New Zealand wine is defined by freshness, clarity and a modern approach that celebrates its unique environment.

Central Otago is New Zealand’s southernmost wine region and a place where Pinot Noir takes centre stage. The cool continental climate and high-altitude vineyards create wines of precision and global fame. Chardonnay and aromatic varieties like Riesling also do well here offering fresh vibrant styles shaped by cool nights and strong sunlight.

Winemaking is focused on detail with an emphasis on purity and balance rather than heavy oak or extraction. Central Otago has built a reputation for clear fruit driven wines that show exactly what this dramatic landscape can do.