The Waitaki Valley

The Waitaki Valley - Dr John Forrest

Growing grapes in the Waitaki Valley holds a special place in my heart and continues to excite me after nearly 20 years. Part of my passion for this region is sentimental, having made the first Pinot Noir in 2002 from the late Howard Paterson’s pioneering vineyard at Drs Creek. However what excites me most is the sheer quality and authenticity of the grapes and wines crafted from these limestone rich terraces on the southern side of the, beautiful, Waitaki river valley, between Duntroon and Kurow.

I believe the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines produced from these gleaming chalky white terraces, with their signature floral aromas and savoury character, are the closest the “New World” of wine has come to the spiritual home of these two classic grape varieties from the “Old World” within the Cote d’Or of mid Burgundy.
Don’t believe me? ; well you don’t have to take my word alone... Matt Kramer - Burgundy specialist for Wine Spectator called the Waitaki valley the “Chambolle-Musigny of the New World". High praise indeed from a man who knows a thing or two about great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Burgundy.

It’s all down to the limestone terroir; and not just any old limestone; but limestone with just the right mix of mineral characters that give such alluring floral aromas to the wine. I always think of violet & lavender in combination with a unique savouriness through the palate.

After many years of hard-learnt knowledge (and more than a few grey hairs), with the vines growing in character, the Waitaki has come of age within the world wine. I invite you to come on a sensory journey of this spectacular region with our range of wines and if you’re taking a trip around your own backyard this year; visit this hidden gem of the South as the scenery is world class also!

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