Regional Variation and Wine Style

Running head: REGIONAL VARIATION AND WINE STYLE
REGIONAL VARIATION AND WINE STYLE
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REGIONAL VARIATION AND WINE STYLE
Summary
This paper is concerned with the discussion of the influence of regional factors on the
production of wine. The region in focus is Central Otago in New Zealand which is known for
Pinot Noir, a fine variety of wine. The paper discusses about the historical context of wine
production and wineries in Central Otago, identification of the factors that influence the
production of wine and their varieties, discussion on the sub-regions in Central Otago and the
different wines found in each of the regions based on the climatic conditions.

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REGIONAL VARIATION AND WINE STYLE
Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................3
History of wine industry.............................................................................................................3
Identification of the key characteristics of regions which influence wine style........................4
Different sub-regions of Central Otago......................................................................................4
Winestyles and plantings............................................................................................................6
Conclusions................................................................................................................................7
References..................................................................................................................................8
Appendices...............................................................................................................................10

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REGIONAL VARIATION AND WINE STYLE
Introduction
Central Ontago in New Zealand is famous for its scenic splendor. Located in the
southernmost region it is known for producing wine that it true to its continental variety. Dry
summers and cold winters characterize the region. The soil structure of this region is different
from the soil structures in the rest of New Zealand that has heavy mineral content in the silt
loams. According to Santini, Cavicchi & Casini, (2013), New Zealand is known for its much
reputed Pinot Noir wines and the Central Otago is known for producing the finest variety of
Pinot Noir. The central Ontago region is the seventh largest producer of wine in New
Zealand. The Pinot Noir is the dominant variety of grape of grape grown in that region. The
aim of this paper is to discuss and examine the impact of climatic conditions, soil and other
factors present in Central Ontago on the wine styles. The paper also provides a brief history
of wineries in New Zealand. There is also discussion on the different varieties of wine found
in the region.
History of wine industry
It seems that the history of wine in New Zealand, is short, however wines prepared
from grape varieties have been available in the 1980s and in 1990s, sauvignon blancs and
pinot noirs have made quite a mark in the international market. In New Zealand, the first
grapevine plantation was established in the year 1819 (Knight, Klaere, Fedrizzi & Goddard,
2015). The first winemaker in the country was Scotsman James who was appointed by the
British Resident in New Zealand. It was during the 1920s and 1930s that the wine industry
witnessed an unprecedented boom during the Second World War. During this period, duties
the import duties on wine were raised. During the 1960s and 1970s there was heavy
investment made by the overseas companies in America and Australia. The 1970s witnessed
the improvement in wine quality and production of wine. In New Zealand, the kiwi wine