Wanaka is the northernmost sub-region of Central Otago in New Zealand's South Island. The resort town of Wanaka, 30 miles (50km) from Queenstown, is better known as an adventure tourism destination, but the elegant red wines made from Pinot Noir in some of the world's most spectacular vineyards are beginning to capture international attention as well.
The town of Wanaka lies on the southern shores of a lake of the same name, surrounded on all sides by dramatically rising mountains. Vineyards can be found on the south-western shores of the lake at the base of Mount Roy, and to the east of the township near Mount Maude. Pinot Noir, Riesling and Gewurztraminer are the most planted grape varieties in Wanaka.
© Marilyn Pratt
The area's position at the edge of the lake means that Wanaka has a cooler, wetter climate than the rest of Central Otago. It is also the most temperate – the lake provides a temperature-moderating effect that helps to reduce the risk of frost in the vineyard. Most rainfall takes place during the springtime, and the hot, dry summers and extended autumns mean that the growing season here is sufficiently long for the development of ripe fruit complexity without the loss of precious acidity.
One of the most distinguishing features of Wanaka's terroir is the soil. The bedrock is dominated by schist, and the coarse gravels and silty moraine have been deposited in the area by glacial movement over time. These soils are free-draining, particularly in the vineyards that are planted on slopes, and are well suited to premium viticulture. Vines are forced to work harder for hydration, and grow deep root systems that penetrate the underlying rock. This improves vine strength and health and leads to high-quality grapes with intense flavors and good complexity.
Wanaka's position on the southern edge of Lake Wanaka puts it in the path of the north-westerly foehn winds that blow down from the Southern Alps. These are fierce and can be damaging to the vineyards, particularly those on the lake's southern shores. Ruby Island, a small rocky protrusion half a mile from the lakeshore, provides shelter to these viticultural sites by breaking up the wind and lessening its impact on the vines.
Wanaka is the smallest of all of Central Otago's sub-regions in terms of production, and only a couple of wineries have made their home in the area. The small size of production here is in no way indicative of quality, however: the wines produced near Wanaka are of excellent quality and can be found on wine lists the world over.
