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 upstream of Lack Dunstan, in the midst of a breathtaking landscape. 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. Floral and spicy, it has a nose of raspberries and blackcurrant, while the pallet derives of black cherry.

Delicate floral aromas pair with rich, dark fruit notes of cherry, boysenberry, and blackberry - followed by just a hint of spiced clove and cinnamon. A rich palate, with ample fine, chalky tannin gives structure and length to this wine, while balanced acidity lends energy and elegance.

A medium bodied wine, with ripe tannins and acidity which testify his capability to age. It develops very delicate aromas and a long lasting finish.

This Pinot Noir has generous aromas of boysenberries, ripe damson plum and nuances of warm spice. The Bouquet has boysenberries, ripe damson plum and nuances of warm spice. On the palate is has juicy blueberries and black plum, balanced with gentle tannins and a subtle toasty finish. It's a superb food match paired with duck, lamb or baked vegetable pasta or on its own.

Uncomplicated, upfront and enjoyable. Signature black cherry fruit flavours.

The Devil's Staircase takes the willing down into the realm of decadence and bacchanalian delights. Here everything is pleasure, spiced up with a dash of naughtiness. The unrelenting environment tortures the vines whose twisted limbs produce wine worthy of absolution. These wines are sinfully succulent and devilishly good.

Tasting notes: Nose-Dark berry. Savoury. Floral. Palate-Rich. Complex. Structured. Drink-Within 2-15 years.

Deep purple and fragrant, with red cherry, dark plums, blackberry, violets, leather and spice on the nose. The palate is rich and concentrated with dark red fruits and hints of tobacco and coffee. A complex concentrated wine with ample velvety tannins, a lovely mineral acidity and a very long finish.

Pinot Noir; notoriously difficult to cultivate, but with luck, love & perfect conditions, she will reward you with the performance of a life time - a minx & a devil in disguise, a Fickle Mistress. Central Otago's cool climate consistently produces exceptional red fruit flavours of cherry, raspberry and redcurrant, but with concentration and length to match. This wine is layered with black and red berry fruits, complemented by blossoming aromas of dark plum.

Pinot Noir is fickle but she is charming, she is temperamental but bewitching. She is the Fickle Mistress.

Gold River wines are handpicked, handcrafted expressions of Central Otago that offer immediate drinking pleasure. Handpicked, small batch fermented, and barrel aged in French oak, the Gold River Pinot Noir offers exceptional quality and regionality at a good price.

Ideal for those who seek excellent value and reliable quality for every day enjoyment. On the palate, a heady mix of dried spices and fruits of the forest, with lovely supple tannins.