Haere Ra 2024: Waitaki
Te Kano Winemaker Dave Sutton looks at an excellent growing season against the pressure of competing land use.
The Good
Although it had its share of challenges, vintage 2024 should be regarded as another fantastic one in Central Otago, with each subregion showing its distinct character and the regional blends looking harmonious. Wine quality across the subregions looks excellent in barrels, with highly structured Pinot Noirs that are finely detailed, concentrated and age-worthy. There is ample discussion globally about the decrease in overall wine sales, which appears to be a consistent trend. However, my international visits saw premium Otago wines in a very positive light. Valli recently launched the 5th of our canine charity wines, “Mawson.” This is our first-ever Central Otago Chardonnay, a variety that continues to gain momentum in our region.
The Bad
Spring frosts, hail and wind impacted some areas, significantly decreasing yields and adding stress to the vines and humans. Water stress was perhaps the most significant we have seen, followed by an unseasonably cold March that felt more like May weather. There were also rain events that challenged picking decisions. The battle against powdery mildew rages on in the region, but with increased success in vineyards and a greater knowledge of how to cope with it (and elemental sulphur) in wineries. At Valli, we harvested over three weeks what we would normally do over five, making logistics extra challenging in the winery. Cliche but true, the more challenging harvests reap the greatest rewards. Some iconic New Zealand restaurants have closed as the recession continues to take its toll, but new ventures are also sprouting up, giving us hope.
The Awesome
After 25-plus years of making premium subregional wines at Valli, we have added Pisa Pinot Noir to our repertoire. The next generation of winemakers and growers continues to thrive with new leaders and new brands emerging that are shining a positive light on our region. This will only help continue to build the high-quality perception of our wines overseas. Community remains the core value of our region and working together is more rewarding, and more important, than ever before.
