Rockburn produces premium wines of intense varietal characteristics in Central Otago, the world’s most southerly grape-growing region. Central Otago, at 45º south, has a climate similar to Burgundy, France, the great Pinot Noir-producing region of the world.

All our wines exhibit strong varietal characteristics, highlighted in the white varieties by crisp acids, which are typical of the region. It has also become apparent that like Burgundy there are distinct ‘appellations’ within Central Otago. One has only to taste a Gibbston Valley Pinot Noir to experience its perfumed nose, typically violets, and earthy, forest floor sensations on the palate.

Compare this with a Lowburn/Bannockburn Pinot Noir with its darker color and fuller, sweeter fruit. For this reason, to fully exploit the potential of the region, it is a distinct advantage to have vineyards in different ‘appellations’.